M’sian Recruiter Says Universities Should Focus on Critical Thinking & Professionalism to Prep Students

College and university – the last place where most of us are “prepped” before we’re exposed to society and the working culture. Apart from the never-ending assignments that kept us awake at nights, life as a university student teaches us how to start “adulting”.

However, a Malaysian, Irene (not her real name) believes that is not always the case. In her recent Twitter post, Irene said she notices some universities and colleges are still treating students like children, which eventually lead them to be fearful to leave their comfort zones.

“Critical thinking and professionalism, not an orientation to…”

Orientation prior to the beginning of the lectures is important as prior knowledge for the students to know how to navigate around the campus, but not when the orientation is not done right. Irene, who works as a recruiter pointed out that critical thinking and professionalism start from the institutions, but many places are lacking in that.

“An orientation focused solely on following the seniors’ orders is just pointless and not contributing.”

Irene added, “Students whom I have interviewed are smart, but they’re too scared to do things beyond what they were taught in college”. She said that she has seen fresh grads who did not bother to try to resolve issues on their own before asking her for solutions.

In her tweet, she also expressed her desire to see changes in the system and policies that are suited to the world’s needs. Despite her colourful experience in the recruiting industry, Irene did not deny the intelligence of Malaysian students.

“Malaysia Boleh and I stand by that! Our locally-educated students are everywhere worldwide doing great things!”

Speaking to WORLD OF BUZZ, Irene said there is a myriad of ways that students can do to prep themselves earlier, and as a recruiter who hires fresh grads, it’s not hard for her to spot someone who has been actively improving themselves.

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“I can see who are active in leadership roles or who have started their internships earlier.”

When it comes to preparing themselves earlier, Irene said students can do so by starting their internships earlier without waiting for graduation to gain life experience. Irene also told WORLD OF BUZZ that a university is the best place for students to experience trials and errors.

“Don’t be afraid to take up responsibilities – lead a club, an event, a project.”

Irene also said that it’s okay to start an internship after graduation while waiting for bigger and better offers. To enhance communication, she strongly suggests students join student conferences and speak up by asking questions to make connections, which can perceive how they see the world.

The bottom line – Irene emphasised a lot on efforts.

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“There’s plenty of time to get a headstart for the job market. If the uni can’t give it to you, make the opportunity yourself.”

If you’re still a student or about to venture into the working class, what do you think of Irene’s tips? To the recruiters out there, what suggestions do you have in mind for the fresh grads?

Also read: M’sian Resigns on Confirmation Day After Boss Yells Vulgarities at Her Every Day for 3 Months