How extracurriculars can fast-track your corporate career

It was 2019. I was nurturing a dream of building a career at a good corporate organisation after my graduation. But the path was quite an unknown area. I did not know where or how to begin.

Although I had been somewhat involved in extracurricular activities since my college days, I fully immersed myself in such activities upon stepping into university. In my first year, I got the opportunity to work as an organiser for a major international event.

At every event, I had opportunities to meet and interact with new corporate professionals and introduce myself in new ways. Alongside organising international programmes such as Hult Prize and APUF, I also achieved success in quite a few business case competitions.

Then I realised just how valuable those university experiences had been in 2022. While still in my final year, I began my professional career at 10 Minute School, one of the country’s largest edtech platforms. After working there for two years as a call centre team leader, I got the opportunity to join the business development team at Prothom Alo, the country’s leading newspaper.

Working here has given me the opportunity to collaborate directly with vice-chancellors of some of the country’s renowned universities, CEOs of major corporate organisations and brand heads.

At this stage of my career, I can clearly see that if I had not been involved in extracurricular activities during my university years, adapting to the corporate world would not have been nearly as easy.

For those who are just beginning their university journey or preparing to enter professional life, my advice is:

• Overcoming hesitation is the first step

In today’s digital age, it is difficult to keep pace by relying solely on CGPA. Alongside academic studies, students should participate in extracurricular activities and case competitions to overcome mental barriers and fear.

• Stepping out of your comfort zone

This is particularly important for those who want to build a career in marketing or sales. You must step outside your comfort zone. The more challenges you put yourself through, the faster you can grow in your career.

• Networking and communication

The professional networks built through event management or club activities can open the door to enormous opportunities in working life.

Employers today do not look only at academic results. They also assess your problem-solving abilities and leadership qualities. So start preparing yourself right from your campus days.

After all, opportunities are always waiting for a prepared mind.

Author: Executive, Advertisement and Business Development, Prothom Alo