Summary of “Student to Employee: A Difficult Transition”
In her article “From Student to Employee: A Difficult Transition”, Mina Alonso
talks about the reasons why school graduates have a hard time adapting to work life. First of all, for many years students go through a familiar pattern of school life and carry out expected tasks in order to succeed. In contrast, life on the job is much more difficult to predict; it requires flexibility and quick reaction to change. Also, the sense of advancement that is inherent in the school life can be absent in the workplace since
growth and promotions depend on many factors often out of the employee’s control.
Second, recent graduates usually lack problem-solving and decision-making skills because the school does not focus enough on their development, instead encouraging memorization and repetition. To correct the situation, the school system should test less but give more opportunities for the students to think critically. Finally, the collaborative reality of work is a challenge for many new employees. Their success at school is typically measured by the quality of their independent work, whereas achieving goals in the workplace largely depends on interaction and cooperation with others. In conclusion, the author cites advice from the new employees who have gone through the abovementioned challenges. It includes doing an internship or volunteering while still in school and a stronger emphasis on teamwork as well as oral and written communication skills as part of the school curriculum. These measures will prepare young people for the successful move from school to wor