Many young people decide to pursue studies that combine theory and practice and wish to enter the world of employability. For example, they opt for work-linked studies. The percentage of students who embark on these courses every year continues to rise, at almost all levels of study and in almost all fields of specialisation. Several higher education institutions offer courses that combine theoretical and practical vocational training. Before embarking on such courses, the advantages of dual studies must be clearly discerned so as not to be disappointed.
Improvement of professional qualities
By choosing to pursue a work-study programme, the student will be required to alternate periods of classes in the training centre and working time in the host company. Thanks to his or her job, he or she will instantly have the opportunity to put into practice the knowledge he or she has just acquired during the training hours. Furthermore, thanks to the job, he will be able to benefit from the advice of his colleagues and examine different working methods. One of the advantages of work-linked studies is that it allows for a longer first professional experience while holding a real job and responsibility. This allows the strengthening of the curriculum vitae. Often, the host company will hire the work-study student on a fixed-term contract during this period. In most sectors of activity, the hiring of companies is conditioned by professionalisation and apprenticeship. This is especially the case in the craft sector. A professional asset will be ensured for the student when entering the real professional world, because he will have a stronger professional base than other candidates from a classical way, his position in front of the recruiter will be better. Moreover, students who have completed a work-study program are often considered more mature, with more courage and willingness.
Motivation and organization required in work-study programs
It must be said that conducting a rotational study requires courage and above all deep endurance. It is necessary to know how to plan and schedule time in relation to the courses to be followed and the days of work in society. Without neglecting the obligations to do homework, the various exams to be prepared. The rhythm will surely be intensive and not easy to follow. The stress will be there, because the student will feel completely overwhelmed. Motivation and determination are essential. Therefore, he will gradually learn to manage time and to organize himself. This is an indispensable asset that is useful when entering strictly professional life. In short, the success of a work-study program will depend on the student's willingness. Above all, it is very important to know how to follow the advice of colleagues at work, as well as those who have already lived this experience.
Combining theory and practice
At the higher education stage, training is based more on theoretical knowledge. Even if tutorials are organized, both at the university and faculty levels, it is more difficult to bring them closer to the real realities in the professional world. It is not possible to discern exactly what exact problems may be encountered in practice. This is the advantage of alternating work and study. The link between theory and mission exists simultaneously. With a professional application, it is easier to understand the theoretical background. Compared to the experience gained in internships, professional experience is weighed much more heavily in a work-study program, because the duration is longer and the continuity of ongoing projects is allowed. During the apprenticeship contract, an employee status is available to the work-study student and he or she is expected to be involved in the life of the company on the same basis as all other employees. With regard to company managers, the work-study programme is more credible and they have more self-confidence. In addition, the work-study program allows students to refine their professional project and see different positions in their field.
A strategic choice to finance your studies
One cannot overlook the advantage of co-operative education when you are a student: the pay. Being actually considered as an employee in society, the student receives a salary each month based on a SMIC ratio. This salary is the one defined by the State and will also depend on the age as well as the degree of the person concerned. From this, he or she will gain a certain financial independence and a more comfortable situation. He will not depend on his parents and will not be obliged to do a student job that is not related to his studies. By paying salaries to students, companies indirectly help students to pay tuition fees and meet the expenses necessary for their studies. This is especially beneficial for those in private schools. The remuneration is a very important privilege, because the "autonomous" status follows it. This is usually higher than the gratuity earned by an intern. It should be noted that by doing a work-study, one already participates in unemployment contributions, to ensure security during the first months of job search.
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