As a regular Tesco customer I was initially skeptical regarding this visit, I mean what could I learn about it that I didn’t already know? As the day progressed on I quickly became aware of how quickly I had judged this project. It was not an experience that only aimed to teach us the ways in which we can implement our classroom activities in the real world, but also the value of working cooperatively with my peers. Our class environment differs greatly from that of the real world, the discrepancy lies in the fact that we are not in control of the problems we face in the real world. Moreover how we react to these difficulties and in turn come up with solutions cannot be learnt by sitting in the classroom alone and must be acquired through first hand exposure. So maybe I did not realize it at the time, but looking retrospectively I have gained many skills that will carry on with me throughout life, skills such as effective and efficient decision making leading and taking control of a situation and being patient even if your limits are pushed. 

One of the important attributes I gained from the Taylors Graduate Capabilities is communication skills. More often than not I find myself with endless things to say, endless questions to ask, but very little patience to actually allow a person to answer them. This proved to be a problem when it came to making decisions, where I and my peer got into a disagreement about whether the work should be equally distributed amongst us individually or whether we should split into teams. It came to a point where I realized that we both were not hearing each other out and we were instead letting our ego get the best of us in a situation where there was very little room and time for disagreement. A situation in which it was imperative that we come to a compromise and fast. So both of us calmed down and took the time to listen, acknowledge and understand where the other was coming from and finally we were able to reach a decision together. Although we did not agree on everything we were able to effectively communicate our point of view and decide on a rational plan of action. This experience taught me that communication is a two way street, where both speaking and listening are essential for it to be effective. 

Moreover, from this visit to Tesco I developed and expanded my thinking and problem solving skills from the Taylors Graduate Capabilities. We often think that thinking and problem solving skills are things that are more valued in the classroom and less so in the real world, but this experience certainly taught me how wrong that perception was and I came to learn this in the most unusual way. During my visit I had to question the Tesco staff regarding the facilities provided by the store, although I spoke in a very polite manner I did not receive the same treatment back. But instead of getting angry, I calmed myself down and persisted on with a smile, and soon enough he was also smiling. Although this at the time did not appear to be an ideal thinking and problem solving situation, when I reflected back I realized that, the outcome of that situation was highly dependent on how I had thought through and decided to approach this problem. In spite of being confronted with such a tough situation, I was able to react and deal with it in a very mature and grown up way, resulting in a very positive outcome.

Probably one of the greatest qualities I gained from this experience was intrapersonal skills form the Taylors Graduate Capabilities. Before this experience, I found it very difficult to stay calm and balanced in stressful situations, I now know how to approach them without seeking advice from other people. After this visit I gained the confidence to seek answers from within myself, instead of depending on other people for a solution. Furthermore I definitely gained more patience and understanding by interacting not only with my group members but also those in the general public. Not only was this visit important in establishing a relationship with other people, but also one with myself. 

I have learnt so many valuable lessons from this trip. I am now more aware of the ins and outs of Tesco, how they go about their daily business routine and how they strategise their products to promote marketing and sales. This experience allowed me to not only apply the theories and principles I learnt in the classroom but also expand my personal skills, such as communicating in a professional and mature manner, controlling my temper and anger in situations that displease me, and respecting the opinion of others even if I do not agree with them. I truly appreciate and value what this experience has taught me, and I am very sure I will carry this with me throughout my life and apply it to situations in which a similar problem is encountered, and build upon the qualities and skills I have gained.

NUR AINA