Stephanie Fehr - Blog 8

This weeks' chapter focused on the transition from high school into post-secondary education, as well as into the labour force. Early in the chapter it is mentioned that many students or post-graduates have been hired mainly because of their connections, "Nearly one-third of graduates found their job through 'networking' through their contacts with family and friends, while a smaller number got jobs through former employers and by making 'cold calls' to prospective employers" (239). I have found this to be true in many situations, as I have had many friends who have had a relative that managed to get them a fantastic summer job. Even my husband got his job because his father was a close friend of the manager of the company (not to say that he is not qualified for his job, because he definitely is). I just find it interesting that the textbook mentioned this fact, because I believe that in many situations people are given a job because of who they know rather than what they are qualified to do. This being said, I really appreciate having connections, otherwise I too would have missed out on some opportunities.

Further into the chapter, various requirements in the work force are discussed - "soft skills" and "experiential learning" (245). The text states that many employers are more likely to hire an applicant with more experiential learning, because this is how one acquires soft skills (such as communication and interpersonal relations). Although I believe in classroom learning, I definitely think that hands on experience is much more beneficial in the long run. For example, even though I have learned some valuable things in my university courses, I feel as though my practicum experience has better prepared me for my career as a teacher.

One last thing, I agree with the statement that a liberal arts degree can be beneficial simply because it can be enlightening and students gain more perspective (247). However, I do not think that students who solely have a liberal arts degree should be complaining about low job prospects. I have a B.A. in theatre but I was never expecting to make a career of it in Winnipeg. Of course I love and value the arts, but as sad as it is, it is quite difficult to find a job that matches the qualifications that a liberal arts degree offers.

Question: What do you value more, classroom learning or hands on experience?