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