May 31, 2022 | Alberta

Practicum experience can open the door to many opportunities and lay the foundation of a successful career. While working hard is certainly a part of the equation, your success will depend on many other factors. Here are some tips to make the most out of your practicum experience:

Punctuality

Showing up at work on time can be a critical success factor for practicum students. Punctuality, especially in a position where you spend a limited amount of time, goes a long way to showcase your respect and dedication toward work and the opportunity.

Time Management

Practica can get busy, and you will often find yourself in situations where time is of the essence. Balancing your practicum with other commitments will involve a fair bit of time management.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions

An inquisitive mind is always welcome during practicum. It showcases one’s ability to process information. The rule of thumb should be to ask one or more genuine question every time you get a chance to interact with a senior team member or manager.

Track Your Progress

The best way to make the most out of your practicum experience is to track your progress throughout the duration of the practicum. You can either document it on your own or ask for a proper review from your supervisor/manager.

If your manager has a positive review for your performance, take the opportunity to ask for a recommendation – either through a letter, or through social platforms like LinkedIn. This should ideally be done towards the end of your practicum’s duration

Build Professional Relationships

Practica usually last only a few months and it is easy to get so involved in the work schedule that you forget about the networking component altogether. But forming professional relationships beyond your practica is essential to boost your industry knowledge and skills.

Networking is also a great way to open up a path for future opportunities. Individuals who network are more likely to make themselves memorable to potential future employers and colleagues. It can also be helpful to have a network of contacts to draw upon when finding your next opportunity.

Practica are hard work and even harder to find! At CDI College, many of our programs include practicum placements so that you can get the skills and experience you need to excel in your new career.