Careers Guidance
In addition to your studies, there is much to be gained from the complete university experience in terms of both personal and professional development; so ensure that you make the most of your time.
To enhance your future employability, extracurricular activities can be invaluable in developing essential skills and experience. Employers don’t always expect a polished performance when you start work, but are often interested to know what you have done in addition to your higher education qualification. Don’t underestimate the value an employer may place on activities you were involved in outside of your studies, as they can demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively within a team, take initiative and responsibility, and to adapt within different social circumstances; skills which may give you the edge over other candidates.
When starting university, find out about the opportunities available through the institution for work experience and internship programmes, voluntary, and paid part-time and casual work. The careers and employability service at University Campus Suffolk runs an online Job Shop for current students and those that have graduated. Alongside this, students may access a Careers and Employability Advisor who can assist in finding work and offer advice and guidance when required. University Campus Suffolk arranges and participates in Careers Fair events and holds a number of advisory workshops, based on subjects such as CV writing and interview preparation.
Gaining work experience whilst at university shows an enthusiasm and motivation to develop your knowledge in a particular area, additionally displaying good time management skills.
Chantalle's Top Tips for career development
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Get in touch with your university’s career service, as they will be able to help source a range of voluntary and paid job opportunities.
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Arrange to travel or work during the summer holidays; this could be abroad or in the UK and can look really good on your CV as it shows an initiative to try new things, an ability to adapt to new environments and can enhance your overall life experience.
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Get involved with the Students’ Union; activities range from sports, media and event organising activities and demonstrate an ability to communicate with and work as part of a team. Many Students’ Unions also offer the chance to set up your own club or society.
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Take on a position of responsibility within the university. University Campus Suffolk runs a Student Ambassador scheme and encourages students to become Course Representatives, which can require students to problem solve, communicate with and to fellow students and staff.
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If you have any concerns whilst at university, get in touch with the Student Support team. Specialist staff are in place to provide impartial advice and guidance for a range of issues, such as finance, study support, careers and counselling.
Chantalle Hawley
Senior Careers and Employability Advisor