Gain work
experience
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 apply for a placement year, 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 also offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities
Clubs
& Societies
Engaging
in a sport or society shows employers you are engaged and seek out
opportunities, it also helps you improve your teamwork, communication and
negotiation skills. Committee members 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 animal behaviour and welfare or take the opportunity
to explore the huge range of clubs, societies and sports,
all of which can help you to broaden your horizons and explore new interests.
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 do approach them for
advice and insights into careers you are considering. Your tutor will ultimately
be writing references for your employment or further study applications,
therefore establishing a positive relationship with this person is invaluable.