Empower and Elevate: A Transformative Faculty Development Journey
As educators, our role goes beyond teaching; we are mentors, guiding students toward a future filled with possibilities. I eagerly participated in a three-day Faculty Development Program (FDP) on "Empower and Elevate" at SNS College of Technology from 18.02.2025 to 20.02.2025.
From the very first session, I knew this was not going to be a conventional training filled with lectures and presentations. Instead, it was an immersive, activity-driven experience that challenged us to step into the shoes of students preparing for placements.
Learning Through Experience
Each day was packed with engaging exercises that mirrored real-world recruitment scenarios. We weren’t just learning about placement training strategies, we were actively experiencing them! Here are some key activities that made a lasting impact:
Group Discussions & Debates
In the competitive world of job placements, being able to articulate ideas clearly and confidently is a game-changer. Through group discussions and debates, we learned firsthand how structured arguments, logical reasoning, and persuasive communication can set candidates apart in placement interviews. These sessions emphasized the importance of staying concise, relevant, and assertive while expressing our viewpoints.
Speed Interviews & Speed Networking
One of the most insightful activities was the speed interview, where we had to think on our feet and respond effectively within a short time frame, just like students do during actual job interviews! This fast-paced exercise highlighted the significance of confidence, clarity, and presence of mind.
Similarly, speed networking helped us understand the power of making a strong first impression. We practiced introducing ourselves, sharing key takeaways, and building connections in under two minutes, a skill that is invaluable in today’s fast-moving professional world.
Storytelling & Role Play
We explored how storytelling techniques can be used to engage, persuade, and create impact, an essential skill for interviews and workplace interactions.
In the role play sessions, we stepped into different characters - interviewers, candidates, and even recruiters-understanding the nuances of various job selection processes. These activities made me realize how students often struggle with confidence, and how practicing real-life scenarios can help them overcome their fears.
Word Wall & Interview Do’s and Don’ts
The Word Wall exercise was an innovative approach to vocabulary building and interview preparation. We brainstormed words commonly used in professional settings, strengthening our ability to use them effectively in placement scenarios.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Interviews session was another eye-opener. Through interactive discussions, we uncovered common mistakes candidates make, such as lack of research about the company, poor body language, and weak responses to behavioral questions. More importantly, we discussed strategies to coach students on presenting themselves professionally and confidently.
Key Takeaways: Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry
By the end of the FDP, one thing was clear-preparing students for placements is not just about teaching technical skills; it’s about fostering confidence, adaptability, and strategic thinking.
This experience has enriched my approach as a faculty member. I now feel better equipped to mentor students, ensuring they step into interviews with the right mindset, communication skills, and professional etiquette.
A huge appreciation to SNS College of Technology and the organizers for curating such an insightful and engaging FDP. This program has truly reinforced my belief that learning is most effective when it is experiential.
As I move forward, I am excited to implement these learnings, empower students, and play a role in shaping their future success. After all, when we empower our students, we elevate not just their careers-but the future of education itself.
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