5 THINGS U SHOULD DO AS AN UNDERGRADUATE TO GET THAT DREAM JOB.

“There are no jobs out there! It’s as simple as that” As a matter of fact, it’s gradually becoming a normal opening remark for encouraging undergraduates to venture into other things rather than searching for a white collar job. Thousands of people graduate from tertiary institutions every year in Nigeria; most of whom are usually ill- prepared for the ‘real world’.

In my conversation with some set of students in Nigerian universities, I discovered that most of them don’t actually have the end in mind before commencing their degree program. They just want to be identified as an undergraduate, leave their parent’s house and enjoy the freedom that come along with it.

1.    Make good research about your field of study

Most undergraduates in Nigeria don’t even know that the course they’re studying existed, until they were admitted to study it. Rejecting the admission offer is not an option because it’s very stressful to get admitted in Nigeria, as a result of this, they accepted the offer and do what needs to be done.

It’s very important to conduct an extensive research about your field of study before accepting the admission offer, conduct research on what the future holds for the field, what are the chances of getting that dream job if it relates to the career path you intend following.

2.    Pick your dream job and do a research on it

As an undergraduate, it’s never too early to starting thinking about what the future holds for you, such thinking will not only gear you up in preparing for what the field has to offer, it will also connect you with like-minded people. Do a good research on your dream job, the things you need to do to actualize it and work towards them.

Take courses that will develop your skills in your selected field of interest. Even more important, be sure to take many writing intensive courses. Strong written and oral communication skills are necessity for any high paying job in the world.

3.    Make good grades

It is almost needless to say that one of the basic requirements for most vacancies is a good grade (minimum of 2.1). You stand a better chance with a first class degree. A few job vacancies even demand only first class graduates. Having a good grade automatically means that you can apply for most jobs that require your area of expertise. While in school, do your best to make good grades at least second class upper division.

There is a popular saying that “Your destiny does not revolve around your grade” the truth is this; your grade as undergraduate degree is a co-determinant of your future job. Your good grade will at least get you invites for interviews.

4.    Interact with people

Being sociable is one of the main reasons for going to school. The ability to interact with strangers and acquaintance in like manner is of great importance. Before you graduate, make it a point of duty to build up your self confidence, learn how to approach people and initiate a conversation, learn how to get people to listen to you, learn how to address a large crowd.

There are lots of positive social organization and association groups like the Rotaract Club, Lions club, various departmental groups etc. these groups brings youths together to take action in their communities, develop their leadership and professional skills, and have positive fun.

5.    Basic computer skill

The corporate world revolves around information technology. Almost all entry level job positions require graduates to have basic MS Office skills (Word, Excel and PowerPoint). Most job vacancies are advertised and applied online. Many job tests are computer based. CV’s and cover letters are designed using computers. Job hunting is all about information gathering and most information including books, interview and test materials are now in electronic forms. The benefits are endless.

Most office work requires job applicants to be familiar with office productivity software as well, such as word processors and spreadsheet programs. Even non office jobs can require a bit of computer training. Retail cashier positions require employees to operate complex point-of-sale (POS) kiosks. Factory positions may require employees to use computers to log their hours worked or to enter production information each day.

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