Introduction
I am Taoheed O.Oyewo, a part four student of LAUTECH, studying Mechanical Engineering. I am a student researcher, volunteer, mathematical prodigy, tutor, language enthusiast and the winner National Engineering brains competition 2021.
I am currently undertaking my internship at Egbin Power PLC, Ijede / Egbin, Ikorodu.
How did you get there, and what works do you do? Suggest other places where people in your department can train.
I secured an internship position at Egbin Power after being subjected to a virtually written assessment and rigorous interview. I got to know about this great company via the programme organized by my department.
An alumnus of my department organized a virtual programme that centred on students empowerment. Since then, I have been on the lookout for their Industrial Programme application form until I got it. However, I didn’t only apply for Egbin Power PLC. I applied for others like Nestle, Coca Cola, Conoil, but unfortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic prevented me from securing some as they responded that their workers are working remotely.
At first, I was deployed to Instrumentation and Control Department. However, I resumed to the Electrical Engineering department on Monday. By his grace, after this department, I am meant to spend a month each at mechanical engineering workshop and MSTP department, making it 6 months of internship.
Students should find their internship based on their future career goals. It’s not always necessary to stick to what’s listed or given to us to find the perfect internship. Use search engines to look for beneficial places for internships. Schlumberger, AGIP, Innoson group, Dangote group, Delta steel company, Fembosco Engineering company, Slot Engineering, Ramcon electromechanical company, Mateng Nigeria Limited, Dandani integrated Limited, Chikason Group, Robert Bosch Nigeria are better companies that normally accept good and knowledge-driven students.
Interesting things about your workplace.
The thing that is overwhelming about EGBIN’s internship program is the freedom of it all. Also, I love my exposure to the housing colony which provided me with the convenience of full community and recreational facilities which include a shopping centre, clubhouse, medical treatment centre and sports field.
As I continue my internship in this noble power plant, I am elated I have learned and realized what an excellent experience this has been so far. I have gathered much knowledge in the classroom, but a hands-on approach has been invaluable.
What was the first shock you experienced?
My first shock was when I realized the practicality of working is not something that can be taught in a textbook. If not for this internship, I would have probably not laid my hands on some machine and equipment (Boiler, Turbine, Generator, Demineralization plant, Desalination plant, Hydrogen, Oxygen plant etc) used in my field.
Another thing that I learned from this wonderful experience is to keep out of office politics. Like my mother always says, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” What wonderful advice when you are trying to negotiate your way around a business that is filled with different personality types and long-standing relationships and issues.”
READ ALSO: My Industrial Training Story 2021 by Abimbola Idowu (Applied Microbiology)
What challenges do you face every day since you started your IT?
The first few days of my experience at Egbin Power Plc were hectic and sweat-filled as I tried to acclimate myself to the speed and intricacies of resuming to work at 8 am and closing at 5 pm every day. However, since I got into a routine and learned the jargon of the station quickly, I began to enjoy my workday and flow with other reputable engineers.
What have you learned other than things related to academics?
I have learned to work well as a team, and that without my counterparts, the work would not get done. Another aspect that I learned throughout my internship is to never be afraid to ask lots of questions. By asking questions I got answers.”
When I first started interning, I was not intimidated and nervous to ask too many questions because I believe it allows me to admit that I didn’t understand or I need extra help with something. Later, I found that the Engineers and bosses appreciated it more if I asked too many questions to make sure I really understood what I was doing and that I did it correctly
From your brief experience, which is easier? Work or School?
To me, both are problematic and challenging. I never realized how important experience is in the working world. Obviously, in the school bubble, we are warned of many things, but until we actually face them, they are just warnings. The work world is gruelling and it is now obvious as to why it is so important to do what you love. Because even with jobs that you love, there will be days when you just want to quit. Starting out in the working world is also humbling, being the “new kid”, having to do all the work that no one else wants to do and having crappy schedules. Although, I miss school saga and my buddy.
Has your IT program contributed to your academic and personal life?
Yes, it has. As a young talented multitask able guy whose mind is to settle down for academics, I was moved to request a lot of content about the station. My frequent perusals of those contents have made me realize I could come up with my academic paper at the end of my internship.
For my personal life, it has helped me to create more time to increase my nearness with my Creator and my loved ones.
Oya gist us (tell us random things)
Now, I am realizing the purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for a newer and richer experience. The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for. Commensurately, I am open to life-transforming mentorship and networking that could help make my scholarship search for my masters and PhD a success.
I can be contacted via the below handles
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/taoheed-o-oyewo-b119071a6
Facebook- Oyewo Taoheed
Whatsapp- 08160851746
