Getting good grades matters. As does graduating from a top 200 university.
But imagine two candidates applying for an opportunity with similar qualifications.
One can communicate confidently, work with different people, solve unfamiliar problems, and take responsibility when something goes wrong.
The other struggles whenever there isn’t a clear set of instructions.
Who looks more prepared for the workplace?
The skills that help you perform well in an exam aren’t always the same ones you’ll need when you’re working with a client or managing a project.
We sat with the team at the Curtin Dubai Careers Hub and learned about the eight skills worth developing now:
Communication: Can you explain your thinking clearly?
Teamwork: Can you work with people who think differently from you?
Problem-solving: What happens when there isn’t an obvious answer?
Adaptability: How do you respond when circumstances change?
Leadership: Can you take responsibility and help others move forward?
Creativity: Can you see different possibilities?
Digital literacy: Can you use technology effectively and responsibly?
Self-awareness: Do you understand your strengths and recognise where you need to improve?
The above are some examples that students at Curtin Dubai develop through the university’s Internship Program built in partnership with Transnational Academic Group. Beyond internships, students are also encouraged to participate in other activities such as running a club or society, volunteering, organising an event, participating in sports, or even just working on projects with the university – with an emphasis on the idea that you do not need a job to develop workplace skills.
Some of your best examples of leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving may already be happening outside the classroom.
The important part is recognising what you learned from the experience.
So yes, work on your grades. But work on yourself too.
If you’re looking for an opportunity to go beyond the classroom, join the Curtin Dubai Future-Ready Masterclass, designed exclusively for students in Grades 9–13.
