IMPRESSIONS from a Cross-section

Last year’s graduates have progressed to advance learning in national and international universities. Few have their own startups. The graduating students have fresh vision, sound academic knowledge, are tech savvy to take on global work for startups and digital platforms. Placements at SOFT have been favourable; almost 65 per cent of B Design students have been placed successfully both within the industry and as self-employment. Also, the institute gets new and upcoming job opportunities that are relayed to students through WhatsApp group and college social media platforms.

As the pandemic has continued, on the internship front many students had given interviews but were unable to join their respective jobs. Since movies and serials shoots are going on, students got an opportunity to work as designers and stylists. Some of them have turned bloggers and influencers and are selling their products online. Few have taken up graphic designing jobs and some have started own businesses. Some students were forced to give up fashion related work and join other fields to earn a living. Few students who were selected by ace designers and companies were not able to start work. Also, few companies, who hired interns from our institute, cut down on staff; so, students couldn’t join them. Those who were able to think out of the box and show innovation and productivity will be able to survive this pandemic, hence the focus on e-commerce.

All programmes at WWI have internships associated with them. WWI also has a special department assigned for placements and internships, and they have worked consistently to help students in choosing the right career option, even during the pandemic. There were a few students who in their own proactive capacities have secured jobs and internships during the year and successfully completed them, while some are still pursuing with their on the-job training.

The campus placements have been going on, which has enabled students receive internship and job opportunities. Also, through our outreach programme, we host professionals and expert workshops or interactive talks with the aim of updating the students with the current climate of the industry. Most students have proceeded with higher education. Many are currently doing their internship or jobs, which they have either gained through campus placements or their own individual talent. Some have chosen the entrepreneurial route and started their own design firms or are undertaking freelance projects. Campus placements have been affected and reduced. However, it is better than what we have expected. Companies are hiring graduates and providing flexibility in working, such as work-from-home or reporting for work once a week or month. Companies are seeking employees who can work in digital fields.