Undertaking work experience in your first and second
years will help you stand out from the crowd when the time comes for you to
complete applications for graduate employment and further study. Work experience
develops valuable skills and qualities that employers are looking for and is
essential for many roles. It can also help you to confirm or rule out
particular career choices. Furthermore, experience in the workplace can bring
you into contact with people who may be able to assist you at the beginning of
your career.
You have plenty of options open to you. You could work
part-time around your studies, undertake volunteering or approach organisations
directly to negotiate short periods of work experience. Some organisations
offer paid internships over the summer or of one year’s duration.
The University
of Plymouth Students’ Union offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities.
Tutor and academic support
Your tutor and other academic staff are an excellent
source of support for your career development. They will have experience and
contacts across industry and academia, so definitely approach them for advice
and insights into careers you are considering. Your tutor will ultimately write
references for your employment or further study applications, so establishing a
positive relationship with this person is invaluable.
Clubs and societies
Participating in a sport or society shows employers you
are engaged and can seek out opportunities. It also helps you improve your
teamwork, communication and negotiation skills. Committee members can develop
leadership, diplomacy and organisational skills and will gain experience of
meetings, handling funds and society promotion.
You may choose to join a society that is
specifically linked to your studies or take the opportunity to explore the university’s
wide range of clubs, societies
and sports, all of which can
help you to broaden your horizons and explore new interests.