As an international student, balancing academic responsibilities with gaining valuable life and career experience can be challenging. During my first year, I was primarily focused on my studies, but I soon realised the importance of building a well-rounded portfolio that would enhance my future career prospects. Here's how I managed to gain enriching experiences beyond the classroom.
In my second year, the initial nervousness about my future prompted me to seek opportunities beyond academics. I decided to join the Hong Kong Society at my university, which turned out to be a pivotal decision. I began as a general committee member and later became the Event Officer after participating in the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
As an Event Officer, I played a significant role in organising the society's major events. One of the highlights was the Ocamp, a three-day, two-night event featuring a city hunt, group games, beach activities, a bonfire, and a detective game. This experience not only honed my event management skills but also taught me the importance of teamwork and effective communication.
Preparing for events like Oday and the Christmas Ball involved meticulous planning and coordination with other society members. Through these activities, I had the opportunity to interact with committee members from other societies such as Japan, Korea, and Malaysia, broadening my cultural perspective and network.
In addition to my involvement in the society, I was keen to gain practical work experience. An email from the school introduced me to an internship opportunity facilitated by the Faculty of Social Science Employability Team. The application process was straightforward: I applied via a Google Doc form and answered various questions on why am I a good candidate to receive this opportunity and was subsequently assigned to an organisation within the healthcare sector.
The internship experience was structured and professional. It began with a comprehensive briefing session where I was introduced to my assigned organisation, its operations, and my specific tasks and tools. My role involved understanding the local healthcare system through questionnaires that provided insights into the lives of local people and their healthcare needs.
This hands-on experience was invaluable in understanding real-world applications of my studies and enhancing my professional skills.
These experiences outside of my academic pursuits significantly enriched my CV. By participating in society activities and completing an internship, I developed a diverse skill set that made me more marketable to future employers. I learned the importance of time management, leadership, and cross-cultural communication—skills that are crucial in any professional environment. After participating in my internship it even gave me direction on my upcoming year three dissertation focus and a possible future career path.
For those who are in a similar position, feeling the pressure of balancing studies with gaining career experience, my advice is to actively seek out opportunities within your university. Join societies, take up leadership roles, and don't hesitate to apply for internships. These experiences not only make your university life more fulfilling but also prepare you for the competitive job market ahead.
Remember, university is not just about academics; it's about growing as an individual, building a network, and preparing for your future career. Embrace every opportunity and make the most of your time as a student.