Features : On-campus experience

Wondering where to start your search for work experience? Look no further than your university campus.

Work experience doesn’t need to be a two-week placement spent in a stuffy office photocopying, filing and making tea. Experience can be gained in many forms, whether through enrolling at a society or club; volunteering as a student support worker or taking on a part-time job in the university bookshop.

Think about where your passion lies and what you want to do in the long run - which types of experiences will complement your chosen studies and help to pad out your CV with valuable work experience?

Sue Snowball is an employer liaison assistant at the University of Huddersfield. She recognises the benefits offered by on-campus work, with convenience and familiarity bonuses to gaining invaluable work experience. ‘On-campus jobs are popular with students due to the familiarity factor. So to stand a chance of being successful you need to do two things. Firstly, apply early. Find out at the start of term when are where positions are advertised and check every week for new vacancies.’

As well as being organised and pro-active in searching and applying for jobs, Sue says the quality of applications shouldn’t be compromised just because the job is temporary. ‘As soon as you see a job advertised, apply ASAP and ensure that your application is of a high standard. Poorly written and badly planned applications will not be considered, so take your time and get some advice from your careers service.

‘Part-time jobs often provide more opportunity than you might think. Once you’ve found a role, look for opportunities to use initiative, solve problems or make suggestions. Doing this will be great evidence when applying for a graduate job,’ Sue adds.

Improve your employability

Employers expect more than just a degree from graduates and work experience is an ideal way to develop your transferable skills. These are sought-after qualities such as: communication; teamwork; problem-solving; planning and organising, which are important to all employers no matter which sector you wish to enter.

Nick Keeley, director of the careers service at Newcastle University, says that employers want new recruits to add value to their organisations straightaway. In order to prepare yourself for the competitive job market, Nick says, ‘You will develop your transferable skills by taking part. Get involved - develop your abilities, try new things, make a difference and have a great time!’

Where can I work?

• Student support worker - provides support for students with disabilities.
• Marketing and events assistant - helps the marketing department with ad hoc jobs, administration and event planning.
• Awards ceremony assistant - manages queues, checks tickets and directs guests.
• Course rep - represents their course and the students on it. Supports the group, listens to complaints and influences important decisions.
• Skill-specific jobs i.e. translator or photographer - roles often available on an ad hoc basis, as and when required by different departments.