05/07/2022
I am posting this for experience sharing purposes as I received lots of messages asking some common questions related to job market, skills, internships etc as a result of my comment I made in one of the posts today in this group. As I couldn't reply one by one, posting this for everyone who need this awareness.
First, I will introduce myself as to motivate fellow youngers to complete BIT degree and move with higher education or else enter to the industry with a high confidence. I started BIT just after my ALs with pending results and I managed to complete it exactly within 03 years without any repeats. I started my first job as a Software Engineer at age 23 and completed my masters (MSc. Computer Science) at Peradeniya University by age 25. When I was 26 years old, I was able to achieve my dream job to become a Project Manager.
Now I am having more than 08 years’ experience in the industry and I am a PM practitioner, technical consultant and a visiting lecturer. And also a member of CSSL (MCS).
1) What are the benefits of completing BIT?
BIT is well recognized locally and internationally. If you can complete all 03 years along with the final project, you will be awarded with the degree which is the entry point to the ICT industry to become a professional.
2) What are the skills you need to enhance and improve?
In order to join market force, there are lots of skills required. Especially English language proficiency is one key point to work in the ICT industry.
Next you need to figure it out what segment you are good at and you are going to focus. Ex: Software engineer, QA Engineer, Business Analyst, System engineer, Network engineer, Designer, UI/UX, Project management etc. Based on these segments, skills required are different but in general following would be needed;
- Logical thinking
- Problem solving
- System analysis
- Technical skills (programming, technical documentation, diagramming, updated knowledge in various tech stacks etc)
- Soft skills (time management, quality of work, team work, collaboration, leadership, communication etc)
Do not ever think that, just completing a degree means that you have obtained all necessary skills. None of the academic qualification can do that, where it is totally based on your capacity and commitment you make.
3) How to find a job after completing the degree or while studying?
There are lots of companies in SL where most of them are publishing vacancies in Top Jobs, LinkedIn and their social media pages. First try to get an internship offer, for this even you can directly write emails for targeted companies with a cover letter and CV. Make sure to perform well in the internship period where you have the opportunity to become a permanent employee if so.
What industry needs right now?
People with smart working attitude who is accountable for their work, quick learners and problem solvers.
Anyone who is working in the ICT industry is more privileged than any other. Now it has been more clearer after COVID pandemic where now you have the opportunity to work in global companies from your home. And also you can be proud of yourself where you will be providing a support for Sri Lankan economy in more positive way.
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