Elise Shipanga
There is nothing more disheartening than reading about a vacancy for which you meet all the requirements up until you read the line asking for years of experience at a time your photographer has just sent you fresh pictures of your recent graduation.
While it will take long for industry to welcome graduates with no experience, our faith lies in any opportunity to do an internship.
In today’s fiercely competitive job market, establishing a strong foothold in your desired industry can be a challenging task.
While the knowledge gained from academic institutions is undoubtedly important, practical experience through internships is what often sets candidates apart.
As a recent communications intern at MTC (Mobile Telecommunications Limited), I understand first-hand the importance of internships.
Classroom learning can only provide a limited understanding of real-world professional settings. Internships serve as a bridge between theoretical concepts learned in school and the practical application in the work environment.
During my time at MTC, I had the opportunity to put my knowledge into action within a dynamic workplace, which allowed me to reinforce and solidify what I had learned in the classroom.
By tackling real-life challenges, I gained practical insights that textbooks alone could not provide. This hands-on experience not only deepened my understanding of my field but also boosted my confidence in handling professional responsibilities effectively.
Internships provide a unique chance to acquire practical skills that are relevant in today’s fast-paced industries. As a communication intern at MTC, I was immersed in various aspects of public relations, media relations, and corporate communications.
Working close to experienced professionals, I learnt industry-specific best practices, improved my communication abilities, and gained valuable insights into the ever-evolving media and technology sector.
From crafting engaging content for different platforms to navigating digital communication channels, I developed practical skills that are not only valuable within MTC but also highly transferable to other organisations.
Networking remains a crucial aspect of career advancement in today’s interconnected world. Internships offer an excellent opportunity to build meaningful connections with professionals in your industry.
Throughout my internship at MTC, I had the privilege of working alongside talented individuals who generously shared their expertise and guided me in my professional development.
Actively engaging with colleagues, attending on-site company events, and seeking mentorship from my supervisor allowed me to expand my professional network significantly.
Internships serve as a platform for self-discovery, allowing individuals to explore different career paths and refine their professional goals. I had the chance to gain exposure to various departments within the company.
This exposure enabled me to understand the different facets of the organisation and provided valuable insights into potential career trajectories.
By observing professionals in action and experiencing the day-to-day responsibilities of different roles, I gained clarity about my future career path.
The internship not only solidified my passion for communications but also reaffirmed my career aspirations. Armed with a clearer vision of my goals, I am now better equipped to pursue my professional ambitions confidently in the current job market.
Undertaking an internship is a transformative experience that can significantly boost your confidence and improve your employability. The practical experience gained during internships allows individuals to demonstrate their abilities, showcase their dedication, and prove their value to potential employers.
In my case, interning at MTC not only increased my self-assurance but also provided tangible evidence of my capabilities, making me a more competitive candidate when applying for future roles.
The positive feedback and recognition I received from my supervisor further reinforced my belief in my abilities and helped me develop a strong professional identity. Additionally, the internship allowed me to cultivate essential soft skills, such as virtual collaboration, adaptability, and time management, which are highly sought after in the current job market.
I wholeheartedly encourage aspiring professionals and corporate Namibian organisations to seize the opportunities internships offer, as they provide invaluable experiences that can propel them towards future success.
* Elise Shipanga is a 22-year-old third-year Bachelor of Communication student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology. She is currently doing her internship with MTC under the corporate affairs department.