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 geology such as the Geology
Society, 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.
