On August 26th, 2024, Miva Open University welcomed a distinguished guest, Babajide Tella, a seasoned HR professional with over a decade of experience, for an insightful masterclass on the theme “Campus to Career.” The event, aimed at equipping students with the tools necessary to successfully transition from academic life to professional careers, was held at Miva’s campus and streamed live for online participants.
Babajide Tella, who currently serves as a Global HR Business Partner at Meta, shared invaluable insights drawn from his extensive career, which spans across multiple industries and continents. His unique journey from studying chemical engineering at the University of Ilorin to becoming a key player in strategic human resources provided a relatable narrative for many students facing uncertainties about their future career paths.
One of the key highlights of the session was Babajide’s emphasis on the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Reflecting on his own transition, he shared, “I didn’t need to know how to do everything; I just needed to be interested in learning.” This statement underscores the essence of lifelong learning, a crucial mindset for students preparing to enter the ever-evolving job market.
Babajide Tella’s journey is a testament to the fact that career paths are rarely linear. From his days as a breakdancer to becoming a global HR leader, Babajide emphasized the importance of exploring diverse opportunities. “Oftentimes you’re pivoting, but still not taking your eyes off the goal,” he noted, encouraging students to remain flexible and open to new experiences while maintaining a focus on their long-term goals.
The masterclass delved deeply into the practical aspects of job hunting, particularly the recruitment process. Babajide highlighted the stages that graduates typically encounter, from campus outreach programs and career fairs to the application and assessment phases. He stressed the importance of viewing the job search as a two-way street, where both the company and the candidate need to find mutual value. “When you apply for a job, you want the job, but they also want you. It’s a two-way street,” Baba explained, urging students to approach interviews and job offers with confidence and a clear understanding of their own worth.
Babajide’s advice was equally valuable for the budding entrepreneurs in the audience. He spoke about the significance of volunteering, internships, and other experiential opportunities to gain skills and insights that are not always covered in the classroom. “Volunteering to learn new things, to acquire new skills, can be informal or formal, but it’s crucial,” he said, underscoring the value of hands-on experience in shaping a successful career.
The session was not just about imparting knowledge; it was also about inspiring action. Babajide’s journey from a student in Nigeria to a professional at some of the world’s most prestigious companies served as a powerful reminder that the world is a global village full of opportunities. He encouraged students to think beyond geographical limitations, stating, “Don’t limit yourself to the bounds of this country. The world is a global village, and you need to make yourself a global citizen when it comes to opportunities.”
Babajide reiterated the importance of persistence and resilience in the face of rejection, a common experience in the job search process. “The worst you ever get is a no, a rejection. But you need to keep giving it a try,” he advised, motivating students to continue pursuing their dreams despite setbacks.
This masterclass was yet another testament to Miva Open University’s commitment to providing its students with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market. The insights shared by Babajide Tella not only provided practical guidance but also inspired students to approach their careers with curiosity, adaptability, and confidence.
If you missed the live session, the recording is available on the Miva Open University YouTube channel (@mivauniversity). To learn more about the university’s programs, admissions, and other offerings, visit our website: www.miva.university or contact an Admissions Advisor on WhatsApp: +234 9132 300 000.
