WORK STUDY PROGRAMME
Students get a jump on their careers
By Giselle Permell
Photo Credit : Giselle Permell
The Work Study Programme at the College of Science Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago ( COSTAATT ) gives students the opportunity to gain work experience while obtaining their education . The Programme aims to enhance student and community life by providing students the opportunity to experience college life from both the student and administrative perspective . Their duties include , but are not limited , to tutoring peers , representing and promoting the College and being given temporary job assignments within the College . Whenever applicable , assignments given may align with a student ’ s particular interest or area of study . The Work Study Programme has three branches - Peer Tutor , Work Study Trainee and Student Ambassador . Peer tutors are self explanatory , they are trained and offer tutoring services to their fellow students . A Work Study Trainee is assigned to various departments to carry out administrative tasks and a Student Ambassador ’ s main duty is to promote the College and student life .
There are numerous skills to be gained by being a part of the programme . Novice Student Ambassador , Samantha said : “ being a Student Ambassador is a great honor for me . My experience thus far has been very challenging yet fun . Challenging as in learning to deal with people of different personalities , checking my own personality -- attitude and improving where needed . It has been fun going to different places , meeting new people and making friends .”
Senior Student Ambassador , Melissa said , “ It improved my awareness and ability to multitask .” To be eligible for the Work Study Programme one must be a student full-time with a minimum of 30 college level credits or a part-time student with 18 college level credits . The candidates must also have a recommendation from relevant college personnel ( such as your academic advisor / Head of Department ) or other referees . A general understanding of the College , its campuses and resources would be an asset as well as a willingness to undergo the required orientation and training . If you ’ re a new student and would still like to lend a hand , you can become a volunteer . Being a volunteer entails a more hands on approach , behind the scenes work , such as assisting with the organization of graduation as opposed to having opportunities to represent the college at events .
The Peer Tutor Programme is beneficial as the student gains teaching skills as well as increased knowledge in the particular subject area . As the peer tutor is directly working with the student body , it is required of them to maintain confidentiality as well as support , counsel and guidance . Requirements include having a cumulative GPA of 3 . 0 and above and a GPA of 3 . 5 and above in the discipline they ’ re providing tutoring .
A Work Study Trainee ’ s work may differ depending on assigned department . Therefore , flexibility is a valuable asset . These tasks are usually further clarified by the Work Study Supervisor and Work Study Coordinator when necessary . Requirements include a GPA of 2 . 0 and above .
Student Ambassadors gain leadership and communication skills . Their jobs also require flexibility as their duties may vary . However , an Ambassador is expected to be a role model and promote a positive image of COSTAATT both in and out of the college campus . Requirements include a GPA of 2 . 5 and above , prior voluntary experience would be an asset .
Caiman Vybe | Volume 1 , No . 1 | December 9 , 2017 . 6