Get a Taste of the Working World

There are different ways to gain working experience through a variety of opportunities while you study. Here are some options you can consider.

Career and recruitment fairs

Attend as many career fairs, recruitment events and networking sessions as you can to learn how to market yourself. Talk to as many employers as possible and network to find the roles and companies that suit you. While you’re there, take advantage of the many presentations, talks and workshops available as well!

Insight programmes

Some employers offer short programmes to students in their first and second years to introduce them to their companies and operations. This is a great time to learn about an employer and test its suitability for you, even as you get to see different sectors in various lights.

Personal projects

Whether it’s repairing old cars or running a writing blog, having personal projects can not only be a good way for you to showcase your skills, but also display your initiative and creativity too. After all, being a self-starter with drive and ambition are traits employers are always on the lookout for!

Competitions

Whether business-related or focused, dealing with healthy competitions will develop your perseverance and resilience. Additionally, competitions also develop your soft skills to work in teams and thrive under pressure.

Extracurricular activities

Build your resume even as you engage in something you love and are passionate about. University clubs, societies and sports can hone your skills in communications and leadership, and on top of that, you stand to gain much more, such as long-lasting connections!

Gap years

Whether you’re taking a gap year to either work or travel overseas where permitted, it’s the perfect chance to build up your resilience while gaining new experiences, as well as learning how to adapt to different environments and cultures.

Internships

A very popular route, with many employers, both big and small, offering students paid programmes that last between 10 weeks to several months. These programmes can either be done over the holidays or offered at various times of the year.

Open days

Popular employers often host open days for students to get to know their work culture and operations, which, on occasion, can include talks and workshops.

Part-time jobs

Part-time or casual jobs allow you to pick up valuable transferable skills, such as communication and teamwork. Moreover, if it happens to align with the career path you’re after, these jobs can also be used as leverage to show off your suitability for a related position upon graduation!

Placements

Your course may require you to take a year-long placement in an industry. Usually found in vocational courses, such as logistics, it’s typically undertaken in the third year.

Shadowing

Apply speculatively and a company may allow you to find out more about a job up close and personal by shadowing a professional for a period of time.

Volunteering

Enjoy a sense of fulfilment from helping others even as you build your transferable skills. If you’re looking to enter the public sector or a non-governmental organisation (NGO), this is the perfect route for you.