Tag: Networking
Sometimes an email can change everything: my path to a placement at DCA Design
Hi, I’m Anna, a Trainee Mechanical Engineer at DCA Design International – and just a year ago, I was a Bristol second-year student, trying to figure out how to secure a Year in Industry placement. Today, I want to share how attending one unexpected event (found through my inbox!) ended up shaping my career.
I began my Mechanical Engineering degree at Bristol after suspending my studies in Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict. Very early on, I discovered the Year in Industry programme and instantly loved the idea.
For me, it offered the chance to understand what engineering is like in real life, to adjust my expectations, and to get a sense of what I actually want to specialise in before choosing third and fourth year units. Plus, working on real client projects sounded far more meaningful than another year of exams.
A City Challenge with Strike
Recently we welcomed Strike to the Careers Service to run a City Challenge with us.
City Challenges are events providing students with the opportunity to support worthwhile organisations, whilst developing skills to improve employability. By taking part, students gain experience in group working, problem solving, innovative thinking, community engagement, public speaking and presenting.
(more…)From Student Consultant to Team Leader: My journey with 180 Degrees Consulting
Ever felt stuck in career limbo? Like you should be doing something to boost your CV, but you’re not sure what? That was me in first year.
I’m Youssef, a University of Bristol student and former Team Leader with 180 Degrees Consulting Bristol. Here’s my journey from Student Consultant to Team Leader.
I was doing well academically, but lectures weren’t giving me the full picture of working life. As someone keen to learn early on, I was always looking for opportunities to apply what I was studying.
Then I discovered 180 Degrees Consulting Bristol, and it changed everything.
What is 180 Degrees Consulting?
180 Degrees Consulting is a student-run consultancy working with charities and social enterprises for free. Students get real consulting experience, and worthy causes get professional-level strategic advice they might not otherwise afford.
My Peer Mentor mentioned it during one of our catch-ups, thinking it might suit me given how eager I was for real-world experience. The best opportunities often come through conversations with people who know you well; exactly why I’d recommend the Peer Mentoring scheme.
(more…)Why working for an SME can be the best career move you make
Hi, I’m Izzie, Software Developer at Ghyston.
For many graduates, the path feels mapped out: school, university, perhaps further study, and then straight into a grad scheme at a large organisation. That is the “safe” option, right? But my own journey showed me how rewarding it can be to take a different route, and why working for a small or medium-sized business (SME) can open doors you might not expect.
Top Tips from International Alumni on Securing a Job in the UK
There’s nothing more encouraging than hearing from someone with a similar background who has successfully navigated the UK job market. We recently invited five international alumni from various sectors to share their experiences of securing graduate roles in the UK.
We were joined by Adil Shaikh from India, a Computer Vision Engineer at DeGould Ltd; Livia Iriawan from Indonesia, an Auditor at KPMG; Linlu Ye from China, the Equality, Liberation and Access Officer at Bristol SU; and Rose Sharon Chin from Malaysia. The event was a full house! If you couldn’t make it, don’t worry, here are the key takeaways that might help you on your own journey:
Don’t underestimate the skills you have gained as an international student
Every international student has a unique story. Adapting to a new education system, adjusting to cultural differences, and navigating day-to-day life builds far more than academic knowledge. Our alumni reminded us that these experiences develop adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the teamwork and communication skills gained through societies, group projects, and part-time work.
Customise your CV
Every speaker emphasised the importance of a well-crafted, tailored CV. Especially from Rose, who has worked in HR, saying that if your CV isn’t tailored to the role, it’s unlikely to get through. Rather than sending out dozens of generic applications, put time into researching the role and company, and show clearly how your experience aligns with what they’re looking for. We also offer detailed CV guidance and 1:1 appointments with our advisors to help you stand out.
It’s okay not to have it all figured out
Not knowing your exact career path after graduation is completely normal. In fact, most of our alumni felt the same way. Trying out short-term experiences like internships, volunteering, or university programmes, such as City Challenge, Bristol Skills Accelerator, or working towards the PLUS Award, helped them explore options and gain clarity.
Rejections are part of the process
Every alum we heard from had their fair share of rejections. The key is to focus on what you can control: improving the quality of your applications, developing your skills, and staying proactive.
And remember, it’s a two-way street. Employers are not just assessing whether you’re right for them; you’re also figuring out if the job and company are right for you. So be humble, stay curious, and don’t let setbacks shake your confidence.
Landing a job isn’t easy, but with the right guidance and advice, the journey can feel a lot more manageable. If you’re interested in hearing more inspiring stories from our international alumni, keep an eye on upcoming events on mycareer. Just filter by ‘International’ under event type to find sessions specifically designed for international students.
- Read our tailored advice for international students and book onto our regular events.
- Use Student Circus to search for sponsored UK roles as well as graduate opportunities in many countries around the world
- Find more tailored advice as well as stories from international students and graduates on this blog, using the” International students” tag.
Could you benefit from the Business School Micro Internship programme?
Gain valuable experience and boost your employability skills as a Master’s student on this 3-week internship with the Business School.
The University of Bristol Business School offers Master’s students the chance
to take part in a 3-week authentic industry project designed to prepare you for the workplace through real business challenges.
The programme is running twice this year with two different groups of students. Our next intake is in June 2025 and you can express your interest here.
(more…)Rethinking networking: Finding your own way as a neurodivergent student or graduate
Hi, I’m Caitlin – a recent graduate and Careers Support and Graduate Engagement Intern here at the Careers Service.
I’m also neurodivergent and, to be honest, the idea of ‘networking’ has always felt a bit confusing to me.
What actually is it? Who is your network? Is it something you do, or something you build? For many of us – especially neurodivergent students and graduates – the word can come with a lot of pressure.
It might bring to mind images of busy careers fairs, fast-paced conversations, or having to ‘perform’ confidence on demand. That version of networking doesn’t suit everyone, and it doesn’t have to.
Last City Challenge of the year: Brave Bold Drama
It was our final City Challenge event of the year at the Careers Service recently. We had the wonderful Brave Bold Drama join us with their challenge.
City Challenges are a programme of events providing students with the opportunity to engage with charities and social enterprises.
(more…)Reflecting on the Expansive Futures career series
Careers Service launches first-ever Expansive Futures series for Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences students
The past teaching term saw a Careers Service first – a month-long multi-disciplinary career development series, Expansive Futures: Careers in Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. When we sat down to design the series, we knew it’s going to be a good one, but the end result exceeded even our most optimistic expectations!
- 14 different panels were arranged, covering topics from film and TV to marketing, from public sector to heritage, from charity to law.
- 48 panellists, including alumni and representatives from local businesses, volunteered their time to share their insights.
- Over 650 of you engaged with the events, many joining us for more than one event.
We were delighted to get some really positive feedback, so read on to find out what some of our lovely students had to say:
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