In the dynamic landscape of education and career development, internships play a crucial role in preparing students for the challenges of the professional world. The August 2023 and January 2024 internship sessions at Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) witnessed the involvement of diligent students from the Diploma in Information Technology (DIT) and Diploma in Computer Science (DCS) programmes. This article explores the details of their internship experiences and how MCKL’s preparation has facilitated a seamless transition into the working world.
The August 2023 Session marked the commencement of the internship journey for Tan Eu Wen, Sivananthan Lee Jayapalan, and Elvin Ng Kian Hou. These students undertook their internships at reputable companies such as BASF Asia Pacific Service Centre Sdn Bhd, Avinity Analytics Sdn Bhd, and NEC Corporation of Malaysia Sdn Bhd, respectively, from 28th August 2023 to 19th November 2023.
In the subsequent January 2024 Session, Malcolm James Tan, Caleb Lim Shian Zer, Ryan Lee In Zer, Su Jing Keat, and John Chew Chin Han embarked on their internship endeavours from 22nd January 2024 to 14th April 2024. Noteworthy companies hosting these interns included LE Global Services Sdn Bhd (LGMS), Firmus Sdn Bhd, Studio Twenty Sdn Bhd, NEC Corporation of Malaysia Sdn Bhd, and QL Maxincome Sdn Bhd (FamilyMart).
This internship experience plays a crucial role in shaping the future of these students by equipping them with valuable skills and insights. It prepares them for their degrees and future careers in various ways. Interns can apply the theoretical knowledge they gained in their academic studies to real-world situations, bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical application. The internship provides exposure to specific industries of interest, fostering an understanding of industry dynamics, challenges, and trends, giving students a head start when entering a more advanced academic setting. They also develop a wide range of skills, including technical, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. These skills are not only beneficial for academic success but also serve as a strong foundation for future career endeavours. Moreover, internship experiences also help students clarify their career goals and make more informed decisions when selecting a degree programme or specialisation.
The success of MCKL’s internship programme is attributed to the meticulous preparation conducted by the Career, University Placement, and Alumni Relations Department (CUPAD). The department initiates the process by briefing students on the procedures for seeking and applying for internships. Additionally, workshops focusing on crafting effective resumes are organized to enhance the success rate of job applications.
MCKL maintains a comprehensive list of industry partners, regularly updating it to encompass a broader range of fields and options for students. While students are encouraged to explore these recommended partners, they are also free to approach and apply to any reputable company of their choice.
Upon securing positions, CUPAD coordinates with the companies to formalise documentation, solidifying the acknowledgement between the company and MCKL. Academic supervisors are then assigned to each student, serving as a point of contact for any issues encountered during the internship, ensuring smooth progress. Site visits are conducted during the internship period to ensure that students are working in a suitable environment.
MCKL’s commitment to preparing students for the professional world is evident through its well-structured internship programme. The valuable experiences gained during internships not only enhance academic learning but also equip students with the skills and insights necessary for a successful career journey. As these students’ transition from classrooms to workplaces, MCKL’s holistic approach to education continues to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.