Perspective from the recent graduate intake on IMPACT
Work, the next phase in the life of a person, the transition where a teenager takes a giant step into adulthood. Gone are the days of late night partying, long sleep-ins and carefree lifestyles. Ever since young, we have been groomed to acquire knowledge, to learn and to “pass examinations”. After years of sweat and effort going through the path of education, we are now faced with new challenges. Challenges that, when overcome, reflect our character and how we handle precarious situations, whether or not we are the carrot that softens when immersed in boiling water, or the egg that when immersed in boiling water, comes out stronger.
As a graduate, fresh from Nanyang Technological University, I would like to share my perspective on my transition from school-life to work-life and more importantly, how IMPACT has helped with the transition.
Working-life may be intimidating to some, particularly for those who haven’t the faintest idea of what to expect. It is not just about applying what we have learnt and sitting back to watch the fruits of our labour. A good degree can only get you so far. Skills training, professional development and networking too are as important. IMPACT understands this and formulates its programs to incorporate these and other values.
It has been three months since I started working in KBR. In this time, I have not just gotten to know working colleagues; I have gotten to know friends. I remember even on the very first day in the company, I was introduced a buddy, a fellow colleague where I could approach should I have any difficulties settling in. What’s more, IMPACT also has a mentoring program, where members are paired with a senior colleague, one who can not only impart technical knowledge, but also guide through experience. Through this program, fresh graduates can have an insight of working in the company, and also plan the various career paths to pursue.
Within the first month, I was invited to a talk held by the senior IMPACT members from various departments with regards to what exactly they do, and who in which department, we can look for in the course of our work. This initiative not only helps the “freshies” settle in, but also improves KBR operational efficiency. Sub groups of IMPACT namely, Professional Development, Community and Networking, organises events that educate as well as increase cohesion between members. Only recently have I completed a course on presentation dynamics, a course organised by the Professional Development group. And I can say without a doubt, I have benefited from the course very much.
The sub group which I am in, Networking, organises events that foster bonding. The latest event, a team building event, held in East Coast Park, was overwhelmed with response. Through organising these events, our own Networking group members have grown closer knitted. I look forward to the next event we’ll be organising, a bowling event, in December this year.
Personally, I would like to thank IMPACT, for helping in this transitional stage and of course I would also like to applaud the management for supporting IMPACT and its activities. I am sure that future employees of KBR would benefit and appreciate IMPACT as much as I do. IMPACT has indeed made an impact on me.