NYSC Member Reveals Four Critical Post-Orientation Camp Lessons
A Nigerian lady currently serving in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program has shared four vital lessons she wishes she had known immediately after completing the mandatory 21-day orientation camp. The corps member, identified on social media platform TikTok as @boujeeuju, posted a detailed carousel highlighting common mistakes many fresh graduates make when transitioning from camp to their primary assignments.
Essential Advice for Corps Members
According to her experience, the first and most crucial mistake was rushing to report to a Place of Primary Assignment (PPA) without taking adequate time to rest or properly evaluate the posting. She emphasized that there is absolutely no need to hurry this process, as patience often leads to better outcomes. The NYSC member advised fellow corps members to thoroughly investigate potential PPAs by speaking with those currently serving there to gather essential information about monthly allowances, workload expectations, and accommodation arrangements.
She specifically warned against organizations that might treat corps members as free labor rather than legitimate workers. Her recommendation was to ask pointed questions early in the process about job expectations, stress levels, and payment structures to prevent future frustrations and potential exploitation.
Learning to Accept Rejection
Another significant point she highlighted was the importance of learning to accept rejection from potential PPAs. She explained that being rejected by an organization is often far better than silently suffering in an unfair or exploitative placement. This perspective challenges the common anxiety many corps members feel about securing any PPA quickly, regardless of conditions.
The TikTok user further cautioned that some PPAs might not provide the standard monthly allowance or accommodation yet still expect corps members to work full five-day weeks while attending mandatory Community Development Service (CDS) meetings. She described this situation as particularly unfair and advised against accepting such placements.
Detailed Recommendations from Her Experience
In her social media caption, she outlined four specific recommendations based on her personal journey:
- Prioritize Rest: "I wish I rested first. The rush to report to PPA is unnecessary. The smartest move is patience. Ask questions from corps members currently serving at that PPA to gather information like monthly pay and accommodation."
- Assess Workplace Treatment: "Before accepting any PPA, make sure they don't see corps members as free labor rather than workers. Ask questions about how stressful the work is, whether they pay allowances, and how much is being paid because nobody is going to warn you early about this."
- Embrace Rejection: "I wish I knew it is okay to be rejected. Even being rejected five times is better than suffering quietly in an unfair placement."
- Value Quality Over Speed: "Getting accepted quickly isn't good; getting accepted right is what matters. Some PPAs will not pay you or provide accommodation yet still expect five days of work per week plus CDS days. That's not service; that's punishment."
This advice comes at a time when many Nigerian graduates are navigating the challenging transition from university to national service, often facing uncertainty about workplace expectations and fair treatment. The NYSC program, established in 1973, requires all Nigerian graduates under age thirty to complete one year of national service, which includes a three-week orientation camp followed by primary assignment at approved institutions.
The corps member's insights highlight broader concerns about workplace exploitation and the importance of informed decision-making during this critical period of professional development. Her recommendations emphasize proactive research, self-advocacy, and recognizing that temporary rejection can lead to better long-term outcomes than accepting unfavorable conditions out of desperation.
