My time in the job shadowing programme has provided me with a profound opportunity to delve deeper into web development, specifically using the Django framework. Through hands-on experience and guided mentorship, I understood vital concepts and practical skills that will undoubtedly shape my future career.

One of the most significant takeaways from this experience was a comprehensive understanding of Django’s Model-View-Template (MVT) structure. The MVT architecture proved an efficient and organised approach to separating concerns within a web application. By understanding each component’s roles, I developed cleaner, more maintainable code and efficiently managed the data flow between the database, business logic, and user interface.

Additionally, I had the unique opportunity to integrate machine learning models into Django projects. Working on a system to predict employee attendance patterns using a machine learning model that analyzes past attendance data was a valuable experience. This task required me to navigate complex data structures, work with .pkl files, and ensure the seamless integration of the model within the web application context. This experience expanded my understanding of the intersection between machine learning and web development, opening doors to exciting possibilities for future projects.

Beyond these core concepts, I actively participated in building custom features such as payroll generation, attendance tracking, and overtime calculation. Each feature presented its challenges, requiring me to carefully consider the backend logic and ensure a user-friendly front-end experience. Furthermore, I developed advanced reporting systems that allowed users to analyze data over specific timeframes and export reports to Excel. This task honed my data handling and optimization skills, enabling me to create efficient and scalable solutions.

Version control and deployment were also integral components of my job shadowing experience. Working with Git and GitHub, I learned the importance of effective branching, managing code conflicts, and pushing updates. These skills are essential for collaborative development and ensuring the integrity of project code. Additionally, deploying Django applications to platforms like Heroku exposed me to the challenges and best practices of deploying web applications in a production environment.

Problem-solving and debugging were constant companions throughout my journey. From missing libraries to API updates and performance bottlenecks, I encountered challenges requiring critical thinking and troubleshooting skills. One particular instance involved deploying a project to Heroku, where I successfully resolved an error related to missing libraries. This experience reinforced the importance of meticulous attention to detail and effective troubleshooting techniques.

Collaboration and communication were equally vital aspects of my job shadowing experience. Working alongside developers and non-technical stakeholders fostered my ability to convey technical concepts clearly and effectively. Whether discussing system requirements or explaining technical decisions, I learned the value of effective communication in promoting teamwork and ensuring project success.

In conclusion, my job shadowing experience gave me invaluable hands-on learning in web development, machine learning integration, and project management. The combination of technical skills and collaborative work has prepared me well for challenges and opportunities in my career. I am eager to apply the knowledge and skills I have gained to future projects and continue to grow as a web developer.

McNobert Amoah is a Computer Science student in the Class of 2026.

Stepping into Viamo’s office this past summer, I had no idea that the next two weeks would be a whirlwind of growth and eye-opening experiences. Viamo, a social enterprise that provides access to information and mobile technology to connect marginalized communities, was my first taste of the corporate world.  

From day one, I was thrown into the deep end, from tracking office inventory (trust me, it’s more complicated than it sounds) to analyzing and writing reports on different firms and their projects. It was a crash course in problem-solving, quick thinking, and rapid skill acquisition. Taking initiative with tasks allowed me to dive headfirst into HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. A daunting task that expanded my toolkit and gave me some insight into this semester’s Web Technologies course. 

The flexible, hybrid work environment taught me the importance of work-life balance and teamwork. Daily check-ins with the director, discussions about networking opportunities, and exposure to agile methodologies revealed just how little I know and how much more there is to learn, leaving me with a clearer vision of my aspirations in the tech industry.  

This externship was more than a two-week stint; it was a bridge between classroom theory and real-world application, challenging my preconceptions, expanding my skillset, and igniting a passion to drive social impact. As I look towards my future, I carry the lessons, experiences, and inspiration gained at Viamo—ready to make my mark in the world of technology and social enterprise. 

Kelvin Ahiakpor is a Computer Science student in the Class of 2026.

My job shadowing experience at Maagrace Garment Industries Limited gave me a valuable glimpse into the world of garment production. From the intricate sampling process to the meticulous attention to detail in every stitch, I gained a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication to creating each piece.

One of the most significant aspects of my experience was gaining insight into the company’s financial operations. Working closely with the team, I participated in cross-checking receipts and auditing financial records, ensuring accuracy and accountability in every transaction. This exposure to the financial side of the business deepened my understanding of how cost management and financial decisions influence the production process at all levels.

The dedication and passion of the team at Maagrace were genuinely inspiring. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail were contagious, motivating me to strive for excellence in my work. This experience honed my technical and financial skills and instilled in me a profound respect for the craftsmanship and effort behind every product.

Beyond the technical skills and financial insights, I gained a deeper appreciation for the people involved in the production process. The dedication and hard work of the team members were evident in every aspect of their work, reminding me of the human element that drives the industry.

In conclusion, my job shadowing experience at Maagrace was an invaluable opportunity for personal and professional growth. I am incredibly grateful to have learned from such talented individuals and to better understand the garment production industry. The insights and skills I gained will undoubtedly shape my future endeavours and inspire me to strive for excellence in everything I do.

Stephani Klomegah is a Computer Science student in the Class of 2027.

My job shadowing experience at First Finance Ltd. gave me a valuable opportunity to gain insights into the diverse aspects of asset management and financial operations. The company’s specialization in providing investment opportunities through its four funds, each tailored to different financial goals, highlighted the importance of aligning investment strategies with client needs.

I learned about mutual funds’ crucial role in providing clients with investment opportunities in the Business Development Department. I observed how the department effectively engages with clients through in-person and phone interactions, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and building solid relationships. This experience underscored the department’s pivotal role in attracting clientele and driving the company’s growth.

The Finance Department offered me valuable insights into accounting and financial management principles. I learned about the calculation of PAYE taxes for resident Ghanaians, the processing of different types of checks, and the significance of adhering to accounting standards. These practical skills are essential for anyone working in a financial setting.

Furthermore, I gained a deeper understanding of pension schemes in Ghana. I learned about the three-tier system and the importance of contributing to pensions even after retirement. This challenged the common misconception that pensions are solely for retirement income.

The company’s use of managerial accounting software to streamline financial processes and reduce errors further enhanced my understanding of the importance of technology in the financial industry. I observed how this software efficiently managed tasks such as cash reporting, payment vouchers, and issuing payment orders.

My job shadowing experience at First Finance Ltd. gave me a comprehensive overview of the financial services industry. I gained valuable skills in client onboarding, economic analysis, and compliance with industry standards. This experience has equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a career in finance and contribute effectively to the industry.

Dana Agyei-Minta is a Business Administration student in the Class of 2025.

My recent internship experience at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Ho, as an IT support engineer has significantly shaped my understanding of the professional world, particularly in information technology within a critical sector like energy distribution.

My role involved overseeing and troubleshooting faults with electrical appliances that slowed down productivity in the Volta region office and supporting the early-stage development of a compliance app using Microsoft Power Apps. This experience helped me better understand the organisation’s domain and administrative responsibilities and provide practical knowledge about the various roles within an IT department. Interestingly, much of my learning came from two other interns from Central University who demonstrated an impressive blend of academic knowledge and practical skills, integrating theoretical learning with real-world applications and increasing my understanding of complex IT concepts.

I had to adjust to wearing formal shoes all week but realized that adapting to such changes is essential to professional life. My advice for future interns is to stay positive, be open to learning, and connect with co-interns, supervisors, and colleagues for future opportunities. My experience at ECG showed me that employees are dedicated and hardworking, so approach your internship with an open mind.

Calvin Mac Philips is a Computer Engineering student in the Class of 2026.