Journey of Discovery: Unlocking Potential through Work Experiences
In today’s fast-paced world, hands-on experience is essential for shaping students’ future career paths. Supported by the EDB Business-School Partnership Programme, we are thrilled to witness an increasing number of students taking the initiative to engage in work experience programmes. These opportunities enable them to explore diverse industries, develop vital skills, and gain valuable insights into their interests. Such experiences not only enrich their educational journey but also empower them with the confidence to pursue their aspirations.
Supermarket Walkthrough
“This work experience has truly allowed me to explore deeper into the retail industry. Shopping at a supermarket may seem easy and convenient, but behind the scenes, there are many procedures that need to be followed, from food inspections to packaging and transport. This 3-day course taught me that working in retail is not an easy task, and that thanks to all the employees’ efforts, we can enjoy a smooth shopping experience. I also made some new friends along the way; they were my learning partners during the program, and we shared lots of laughs. Even though we come from different schools, the time spent with them was memorable and precious. I hope to join another work experience program in the future, as it can prepare me for when I start working.”
Community Engagement
“Working at the community service center significantly improved my understanding of the importance of establishing these welfare centers in Hong Kong. It was unfortunate that I could only experience this role for a day due to the adverse weather condition; otherwise, I could have participated in the child care activities. Nonetheless, it was still fun. I primarily helped prepare materials for next week’s child care activities and performed some office administration tasks. While designing the board for the child care service, I learned how this community service center operates by organizing various activities that benefit both the young and the elderly. Surprisingly, the staff knew almost all the elderly clients who came for lunch and could even call out their membership numbers. This made me realize that the staff are genuinely dedicated to helping their community, which really touched me. This work experience inspired me to become more active in community service and contribute to the well-being of the public.”
Architectural Services Department Experience
“Learning alongside experienced architects and engineers allowed me to see the impact of innovative engineering in fulfilling citizens’ needs while addressing climatic threats, systematically contributing to a more secure and enhanced city. There are many details hidden in the places where we live, such as the consideration of facilities that aid people with disabilities, enabling them to enjoy life as much as everyone else. It made me realize that even minor changes can truly make the world a better place and encouraged me to think more about how to care for others.”
Hospitality in Action
“I had never worked in a workplace before, which made this experience unforgettable. Additionally, it changed my impression of the catering industry, especially regarding waitstaff. At first, I thought being a waiter in a restaurant was a simple job, as I assumed it only required clearing dishes and less physical ability. However, that was not the case at all. For example, while I was cleaning waste off the dishes, the dishwasher asked me to hand her the dishes quickly, while the manager asked me to transfer the unwashed dishes to the kitchen. I was stunned at that moment, unsure which task I should finish first, and it was quite stressful. In the end, a senior staff member helped me complete one task. This experience made me realize that no matter what job I am doing, I need to stay alert and act quickly, as delays can cause trouble for others.”
Hair Salon Experience
“I’m glad to have participated in the work experience. It provided a valuable opportunity and enriched my whole-person development. The work experience included practical hands-on activities related to working in a salon, allowing me to explore the workflow in a salon, which involves various specialists and departments. This experience served as a good test for me to discover whether I am passionate about this occupation. Additionally, it offered a unique opportunity to gain an overall understanding of a career in this field. Overall, the program not only broadened my understanding of this particular career path but also gave me more ideas for planning my future study pathways.”
Retail Insight
“If I had to use one word to describe this work experience, it would be ‘amazing.’ To be honest, I never expected that working at a uniform company would be both fun and challenging. We often had to navigate the warehouse quickly to find the products that customers needed, selecting a few items from hundreds with efficiency. Although it was somewhat confusing at first, as I struggled to remember where each product was placed, I eventually managed to help customers find what they were looking for. While the workload may seem overwhelming, I still thoroughly enjoyed the process.”
“The internship provided a clear understanding of the company’s operational aspects and the interconnectedness of its various departments. I recognized how companies adapt to contemporary developments by leveraging technology. I developed essential skills in communication, data entry, and inventory management, all of which will be beneficial for my future career. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to applying what I have learned.”
