So, you've landed a SIWES placement! Fantastic! Now, you're staring down the barrel of a log book. Don't panic! It's not as scary as it looks. Think of it as your adventure journal, filled with tales of triumphs, near-disasters, and questionable coffee choices.
The Daily Grind (or Scribble)
Each day, jot down what you did. No need to write a novel. Just a few sentences summarizing your activities is fine.
Imagine your future self, wrinkled and wise, reading this years from now. Would they understand what "assisted with filing" means? Probably not, so add a *tiny* bit more detail. Think: "Assisted Sarah with filing client invoices, learning the Dewey Decimal System of Doom (okay, maybe not that last part). "
Be Specific, But Not *Too* Specific
Instead of "Used the computer," try "Used Excel to create a spreadsheet tracking inventory." It sounds much more impressive, right? And it actually tells someone something!
However, avoid rambling. Nobody wants to read your entire autobiography disguised as a SIWES log. Aim for concise and informative.
Embrace the Unexpected
Sometimes, the most memorable SIWES moments are the unplanned ones. Did the office printer spontaneously combust? Did you accidentally staple your hand to a document? Write it down (maybe skip the hand stapling part for professional reasons, emphasis on professional)!
These little anecdotes add personality and show you were actually *there* and paying attention. Plus, they'll make you laugh later.
Highlight the Learning Curve
Even if you spent an entire day untangling ethernet cables (we've all been there), frame it as a learning experience. "Spent the day troubleshooting network connectivity issues, gaining a deeper understanding of cable management and the true meaning of patience." See? Educational!
Don't be afraid to admit you made mistakes. It shows you're human and willing to learn. Just make sure you also mention how you corrected them (or, at least, attempted to).
The Art of Reflection
At the end of each week (or a few times a week), take a moment to reflect on what you've learned. What new skills did you acquire? What challenges did you overcome? What did you learn about office dynamics (like who steals whose lunch from the fridge)?
This is your chance to demonstrate that you're not just a robot going through the motions. You're actively engaged in your placement and growing as a professional.
Signature Shenanigans
Make sure your supervisor signs your log book regularly! This is crucial. Think of their signature as your SIWES equivalent of a gold star. Don't wait until the last minute to chase them down. They'll appreciate the early heads-up.
Treat them with respect. Offer them a good cup of coffee. Or do them small favors ( like remind them of important meetings). You are going to benefit from them!
The Final Flourish
Proofread! Proofread! Proofread! Typos and grammatical errors can undermine all your hard work. Get a friend to read it over, too. Fresh eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed.
Your SIWES log book isn't just a chore. It's a record of your professional journey, a testament to your growth, and a potential source of hilarious memories. Embrace the process, be honest, and have fun! Now go forth and conquer that log book!
