Licking Shoes to Get Experience: Graduate’s Struggle to Get an Internship
In many countries in Africa, and even in the world in general, young graduates face an uphill battle when it comes to finding an internship or job. They are often seen as cheap labor and are subjected to exploitation by employers who are willing to take advantage of their desperation for experience.
Graduates are forced to work long hours for no pay and even get abused in diverse ways. In extreme cases, they are asked to do things that are completely unrelated to their field of study or internship, simply because their employers know that they are desperate for a “foot in the door”.
In Mali(a country in West Africa), for example, it’s common to see a law graduate asked to make coffee for everyone or wash the employees’ cars. That’s the case for the lucky ones, unfortunately, some are asked to do all the dirty (unwanted) jobs of the employees.
These graduates are not learning anything during these internships. They are not gaining the skills and experience needed to start their careers. They are simply being exploited by employers who do not value their time or their potential.
This is a sad reality for many fresh graduates who are eager to start their careers. They should not have to resort to licking shoes to get experience. Employers need to be held accountable for their actions and stop exploiting young graduates. In addition, schools must have a career service department that makes sure their graduates are getting the right opportunities for their professional growth.
Suggestions
Enough talk!! It is good to point out a problem, but better to suggest solutions. Here are a few tips that can be useful for fresh graduates struggling to get a foothold in the professional world:
- Network with people in your field: Attend industry events, connect with people on LinkedIn, and reach out to former classmates and professors. The more people you know, the more likely you are to hear about job openings. Networking is Crucial.
- Be proactive: Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Take the initiative and reach out to companies that you are interested in working for.
- Be prepared to learn: The first few years of your career will be a time of learning and growth. Be open to new experiences and be willing to work hard.
- Be confident: Believe in your abilities and don’t be afraid to sell yourself. Employers want to hire people who are confident and passionate about their work.
I will conclude with this: Experience is crucial, but Never Lick Someone’s Shoes to Get Experience
