I’m Haseeb, I’m just about to start my third year as a law student at the University of Bristol. I also work part-time at the Careers Service as a Careers Ambassador. Below, I have highlighted some of the ways I made the most of my first year of university.
Get involved and develop skills
In your first-year of university, I would recommend embracing all the opportunities that are open to you, as any skills that you develop will help with your career. For example, I had a part-time supermarket assistant role. When applying to first-year schemes, this allowed me to evidence my communication skills and my ability to work well under pressure. In addition, any society involvement will not only enhance your university experience, but look great on your CV. Being part of a sports team shows that you are a team player, and all of these experiences highlight your ability to balance extra-curriculars with your university studies, evidencing the key time-management skill employers look for.
Explore your options
I’d recommend not limiting yourself to career options that you would assume your degree lends itself to. This is the time to explore! For example, I am a law student but I have explored the technology and insurance sectors. Taking part in a range of open-days or career-oriented society events will help you with narrowing down your options when applying to internships or graduate schemes as you will have a better idea of what it is you would or wouldn’t like to do. It will also help evidence why you are interested in a specific career, as you can mention what you enjoyed in your prior experiences, and how that has led you toward your current application. For example, I spoke about my experience working in sales and how that led me toward applying for legal internships.
Talk to people
This is the time to start networking, especially with graduates who were recently in your position as a student! They understand your situation and are usually very willing to help, so there is no need to stress about reaching out. This will help with exploring your career options by speaking to those who are currently working in the sector you are considering and completing the type of work you would do if you were on the scheme.
They may also be able to help with any future applications you submit, especially if it is to the same company, as they would have had to go through a similar application process.
Further support
- Don’t know where to start? Browse online career guides written by your Careers Service
- Ready to learn? Come along to an intro talk or workshop in term-time.
- Feeling stuck? Talk to us at the Careers Service.