A comprehensive guide to personal growth for university students
As the world progresses, university students can also upskill themselves in various ways to adapt to the changing educational environment and satisfy the evolving needs of both society and students. Challenging ourselves means more than just pushing ourselves beyond our boundaries but also mentally challenging ourselves to stimulate brain function and give us the confidence boost that can push us to further our personal growth. Here are some ways Students can upskill themselves.
Participate in Internships
Seek out internships related to your field of study. Practical work experience not only enhances your resume but also provides valuable hands-on skills that are often in high demand. There are plenty of internships available that students can fit into their timeline such as Work-from-home (WFH) internships allowing students to manage their schedules more flexibly. Practical work experience also encourages self-discipline and time management. Students learn to set and meet deadlines, prioritise tasks, and be responsible for their own productivity. Through internships, students can also get an insight of how the industry they are interested in operates.
Find global opportunities
Living in a global world allows us to stay interconnected with the world, opening up more opportunities from all over the world. Students can emerge themselves in remote internships or freelancing jobs that expands their network and exposes them to different working cultures and practices. Additionally, International conferences and workshops can also be beneficial as these events often bring together professionals, researchers, and students from around the world.
Upskill technological skills
As technology continues to advance, students should start to train and learn various digital tools and collaborative platforms that can become valuable in the workplace. Gaining valuable skills in the technological aspect is becoming increasingly important in today’s digital workplace. Some of the top ten digital skills that employers look for include programming, web and app development, digital business analysis, digital design and data visualisation, digital marketing or data science and data analytics.
Certification
Certifications serve as a formal recognition of your skills and expertise in a specific domain. Certifications might provide you with a competitive advantage over other applicants in highly competitive employment marketplaces. Certifications are often developed by reputable institutions or professional organisations. Achieving a certification can also boost your confidence in your abilities. Regularly updating your skills through certifications can contribute to long-term career success and job satisfaction. An example of a certification that students can take is the Microsoft certification.
Online courses
There are various courses online that could help upskill students. There are English language Proficiency courses, Coursera, Duolingo, edX, Khan academy, Moodle or Skillshare. Each online course platform specialises in different aspects such as creative skills, marketing, coding or other soft skills. Similarly, Tel-U Open library has an Open courseware Open library (OCW Openlib), a form of Telkom University’s support for an open and dynamic educational ecosystem. Openlib OCW is a collection of free and open to the public learning materials from thousands of teaching materials.
Telkom University Open Library
Language learning
Learning a new language can be more than just a fun hobby. From the neurological perspective, it can improve concentration as it stimulates the part of your brain that deals with memory and brain function. It improves your communication skills as you interact with a diverse community. It also opens up opportunities abroad as you have more access to information and opportunities. Telkom University Language centre is a unit that aims to improve the language abilities of university students to confidently face the global world. Programs include English test preparation, Short courses, English for Specific purposes and Language courses including English, Japan, Mandarin, French and Bahasa Indonesia. To learn more about the programs LAC offers can be referred to from their website Telkom University Language Center .
Volunteering
Engaging in volunteering work, contributing to social causes, and gaining hands-on experience while making a positive impact on communities can also demonstrate to employers that you are proactive and willing to take initiative. Employers also tend to appreciate candidates who are socially responsible as it implies that you are dedicated to continuing your personal growth after fulfilling your academic obligations. Some Volunteering organisations in Indonesia are Worldpackers, Indonesia Red Cross Society, Asean Youth Leader Association or Cipta Bangsa Foundation.
As industries continue to evolve, upskilling helps students become more adaptive to changes in their field of study. Continuously learning and upgrading oneself is the key to long term success.
