Engineering is more than formulas, projects, or classroom lectures. While academic learning builds a foundation, real-world experience shapes your mindset, communication, and decision-making abilities. From my own journey, I’ve seen how industrial training, leadership roles, and volunteering helped me grow far beyond the textbook.

When you work in a real production environment, like a garment factory, you begin to understand how things actually work on the floor. Industrial training teaches you about time management, coordination, and how teams solve problems in real-time. You observe how small improvements in workflow or communication can bring large results. This kind of learning is something no classroom can fully teach.

Leadership roles in university also help in developing essential soft skills. Organizing events, managing volunteers, and communicating under pressure make you more confident and responsible. It teaches you how to plan, lead, and adapt — which are valuable qualities in both academic and professional life.

Volunteering adds another layer to your development. It allows you to give back to your community while also learning empathy, teamwork, and people skills. Volunteering shows that you are proactive and socially responsible, which employers and organizations appreciate.

These experiences make your resume stronger, but more importantly, they shape your personality. They prepare you for interviews, teamwork, and real challenges in your career. You learn how to think practically, solve problems, and communicate your ideas clearly — all of which are essential in today’s job market.

If you are an engineering student, try to step outside your comfort zone. Look for internships, attend workshops, join a leadership program, or take part in a volunteering activity. The real world is the best teacher, and the lessons you learn there will stay with you forever.

Start early, stay curious, and take every opportunity to grow.