Introduction:
The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme, known as SIWES or IT, is a compulsory program for students in Nigerian universities and polytechnics. It provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in a real work environment. However, many students treat the 3 to 6-month program as a holiday or just another requirement to fulfill. This attitude leads to poor grades, missed networking opportunities, and wasted time. Based on feedback from lecturers and industry supervisors, there are four common mistakes students consistently make during SIWES. Understanding and avoiding these errors can help you secure an excellent grade and potentially a job offer after graduation.
1. Choosing a Placement Based Only on Convenience
The biggest mistake is selecting a company simply because it is close to home or because the owner is a family friend. While convenience is important, the primary goal of SIWES is to gain relevant experience in your field of study. A Computer Science student working at a fashion boutique will learn little about programming or networking. Similarly, a Mass Communication student filing papers at a relative's law office gains no media experience. Before accepting a placement, ask three questions: Will I learn skills related to my course? Will there be a qualified supervisor to sign my logbook? Will I be given real tasks or just asked to buy food? Target companies, even small ones, that operate directly in your field. It is better to travel 45 minutes to a relevant tech startup than to walk 5 minutes to an irrelevant business.
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