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 Biology 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.