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Wednesday Aug 12, 2009

Work experience: a live debate

Anna here, posting on behalf on Aarti (that's her on the far left!)

 

Hello I'm Aarti and I'm about halfway through my work experience at TheSite.org, so I thought an update would be in order.  I have been given so many great opportunities in the last week, but I thought I'd highlight just a few of my favourites.

I have had the chance to sit in on an editorial meeting, which was a bit intimidating on my first day when I was still settling in! Still, it helped to show me how the staff behind TheSite come up with their ideas for content. I've also written a comment piece – really a one-sided argument– always fun to write.

Best of all, I was given the opportunity to be a part of a video debate about this country's education system, unfairness on the career ladder and the all important worry of the recession and its effects. I was  a little out of my depth, but I gave it my best shot!

Everyone else debating had passed the age of A-Levels and university degrees and had all tried getting a job. To be honest, at 16, I really felt a little too young to be discussing this with them, but in the end the age difference really helped to bring a new perspective to the table and hopefully I didn't seem too naive in my young-minded views.

Being the age that I am, our discussion on how A-Levels compared to vocational courses really had me thinking, is the traditional route really the best option? The first hand experiences of the contributors brought home the idea that a textbook course without practical work can't really be all that useful when you start searching for a job. But then I suppose people have managed so far by putting in the extra effort to balance knowledge and experience.

Talking about the obstacles for young people in the world of work was a little overwhelming, but it was interesting that everyone agreed gender and income still held some candidates back, as unfair as it seems.

Our talk on the recession, I have to admit, made me feel even younger. Their stories of the direct effect on their lives made me realise how lucky I was that my parents were coping well. And if that wasn't enough, their fears of joblessness were met by my possibly slightly naive weapon – hope. But then I really do think that's all I can do, besides working my socks off.

I had a great time and I not only learnt a lot form their views and experiences but I came away with a greater awareness of the struggles young people are facing everywhere.  I can't complain at all – everyone made me feel really welcome and an important part of the team. I am just grateful I was given the opportunity to sit in, despite my earlier worries!

Posted by Anna ( 11:37 AM ) Link to this post  |  Comments[1]