Category: Graduate success

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Careers programmes gradireland Graduate success

The gradireland Undergraduate of the Year Awards 2024

gradireland undergraduate of the year

Queen’s Computer Science student Tim Chan, takes us through his night as an award nominee at the gradireland Undergraduate of the Year Awards 2024.

Take it away Tim…

“A few months ago, an email from the Queen’s Student Union’s VP of Undergrad Education told us about the gradireland Undergraduate of the Year Awards. The gradireland Undergraduate of the Year Awards is an annual competition aimed at finding the best undergraduates in Ireland. Each award is sponsored by a different graduate recruitment company with its own prize including things like cash prizes or work experience with the graduate employer.”

“I nominated myself for the ‘Difference Maker Undergraduate of the Year Award’, in the hope of highlighting some of the work I do in student societies and as school rep for EEECS to inspire other students to also take part in these rewarding activities. The nomination process included an online application form with specific questions about the award, an online test and an online interview (this differs depending on the award category). About a month later, I received an email that I was shortlisted as one of the top 10 finalists of the award, and was invited to the final award ceremony in Dublin.”

“The award ceremony was in the Aviva Stadium in Dublin during April, and it was amazing. We were greeted by gradireland and were given complimentary tea/coffee and some snacks for about an hour of networking with finalists from all the award categories. This was followed by an amazing three course dinner, which was really good, better than any formal dinner I’ve been to during uni. It was at that table that I met another student from Queen’s, Mary Freeman, who was nominated for the same award category, and we found out that we were even on the same train on the way down.”

“During the awards dinner we sat with representatives from the graduate employer sponsor of our award. That was when I met Barry who was currently the Vice President of Chartered Accountants and was about to enter a new role as President. I thought the experience was going to be super scary, but everyone was very friendly, we shared funny experiences and everyone’s career journey even though mine hadn’t even started and everyone was very down to earth.”

“Whilst I didn’t win the final award, this was an amazing experience. I got to network with other amazing finalists and was told that if a careers as a Software Engineer doesn’t work out, I could always try accountancy. I would definitely recommend anyone to apply for the awards when they come out in future years, there’s absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain!”

Some highlights from the night of the awards, including that amazing three course awards dinner!

Categories
Career Options Career planning Careers programmes EY Graduate jobs Graduate recruitment Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair Graduate success graduate training schemes

EY Northern Ireland Recruits for Summer Interns, Industrial Placements, and Graduates.

EY

The Student Recruitment Journey Unveiled

Entering the professional world after graduation is a new adventure waiting to unfold. Understanding the recruitment process can often seem daunting!

But don’t worry: Let’s explore the student recruitment journey together.

Your Adventure Awaits:

Your professional journey is all about finding your path to the right opportunity. If you’re not sure what’s next, why not check out EY’s interactive quiz, the EY Pathfinder, that matches your strengths to our business areas to find a role that’s right for you.

Understanding the Recruitment Process:

Now that you’ve identified the programme/role that’s right for you, let’s look at the stages in EY’s student recruitment process, which is similar to other organisations, which involves:

Stage 1: Online Application – after you’ve created your account, you’ll need to choose your programme. During this stage, you will need to entre your personal details so we can learn more about you.

Stage 2 – Online Assessment – these online immersive assessments have been designed for you so you can demonstrate your potential for the programme you have applied to. You’ll receive full instructions by email about the structure of the assessment and whether it needs to be completed in one sitting, including access to practices tests – so make sure you take the time to practice!

Stage 3 – Assessment Centre – in the assessment event, you’ll take part in a number of exercises. The event is designed to see if you have the strengths needed for your role at EY, but it’s also a chance to see if EY is right for you.  

Stage 4 – Final Interview – this is your opportunity to share your strengths and motivations for the role you’ve applied for. Before the interview why not check out EY’s LinkedIn, website, Facebook, X, and Instagram – and tell the interviewer something they haven’t heard before!  It is also your chance to ask any questions you have about the programme and business area you’ve applied for.

If you need support with any aspect of our recruitment process, we’ll work with you collaboratively in providing you with adjustments.  

To learn more about EY and our recruitment journey, why not check out the Adventure Awaits platform, and hear from members of our Student Recruitment team.

Celebrate Your Success:

After conquering the various stages of the recruitment journey, it’s time to celebrate your new role! Cherish your accomplishments and gear up for the exciting professional adventure awaiting you.

We hope this gave you a concise yet comprehensive idea of what to expect from the student recruitment process. Remember, keep an open mind, resilient spirit, prepare well, and get set to embark on your professional adventure.

Best of luck!

Learn more about taking the first step in your career through Adventure Awaits: Careers at EY in Northern Ireland | EY UK

EY are one of the sponsors for our 2024 Spring Careers Fair.

Find out more about Queen’s Careers Fairs.

Categories
CVs Graduate jobs Graduate success placements Scholarships STEM student success work experience

Get Future-ready with The Defence STEM Undergraduate Sponsorship Scheme

Scientist doing experiment

Is it right for you?

Do you want to be an integral part of maintaining national security now and in the future, whilst developing your skills and career within the Nuclear industry? Would you like the opportunity to have an exciting and varied career working with the most cutting edge technology? Then this Defence STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) Undergraduate Sponsorship (DSUS) Scheme could be the opportunity you are looking for! This is a genuinely exciting time to join the Ministry of Defence (MOD) if you want to be at the heart of real Defence issues. You will get to work on a high profile and distinctive portfolio which is rarely out of the news and have a unique insight into the captivating world of nuclear. You will require an eagerness to learn, an inquisitive mind with a logical approach to problem solving, self-motivation, and the ability to learn from practical and theoretical studies. The scheme requires dedication from you to complete the remainder of your STEM degree and commit to work in the DNE for a minimum of 3 years after you graduate. If this sounds like you, then we want to hear from you!

During your studies:

If you are accepted onto this sponsorship scheme, whilst you study for your degree, we will:

  • Pay your tuition fees (up to £9,250 each year for the remainder of your studies, to a maximum of 3 years).
  • Pay you a bursary of £5,000 each year for the remainder of your studies.
  • Organise paid work placements for you in a variety of locations across the UK – these placements are crafted to give you experience of the DNE that will be of value to your future career and to your development

Upon graduation:

On successful completion of your degree, we will appoint you to a permanent job within the DNE. Your contracted hours will be 37 hours per week. You will initially start as an Executive Officer (EO) (current minimum £27,080). At the 2-year point there may be an opportunity for you to re-grade (promote) to Higher Executive Officer (HEO) (current minimum £33,830). Roles are available in a variety of locations across the UK. We will continue to support you with professional development in order to maintain your skills and professional accreditations.

Who is eligible?

You must be studying for a degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) approved by the Engineering Council (engc.org.uk) OR be studying a degree from the list in the relevant advert. You can apply for this scheme at any stage of your studies from first to final year. You must be able to undertake paid work placements for up to 45 days during the summer. You must commit to work within the DNE on graduation and for a minimum of three years. Please note that this is an undergraduate scheme – so if you have already graduated, you will not be eligible.

Where are the opportunities?

The Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) is made up of several government and industry organisations that sustain the UK’s nuclear deterrent. This includes the organisations, programmes, and people within government and industry that help deliver the UK’s nuclear capability. There are opportunities in Portsmouth, Bristol and Reading, each advertised under a separate reference number.

How to apply

Civil Service Jobs: civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk

Portsmouth: Navy Command Ref: 295665

Bristol: Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) Ref: 295582

Reading: Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) Ref: 295643

Closing date for applications: 23:55 Monday 14th August For further information, contact DNO-DNE-Talent@mod.gov.uk

Categories
Graduate success student success Student success stories

Graduate Success: Kate Wilson

Kate Wilson

Kate studied an MSc in Management at Queen’s University Belfast from 2020-21. She is now based in London working as a Senior Marketing Executive at HeadBox, a digital platform for booking meetings and events.

What course did you study at QUB?

I studied for my MSc in Management in 2020-21.

Did you use your careers service at university?

Yes, I had a couple of sessions over Zoom to help with CV prep. I wasn’t too sure how to best present my skills and experience, so I found these really valuable.

How did you find your current role?

I found it via a job site called Otta that specialises in jobs in tech startups.

Why did you decide to work at HeadBox?

I chose the Consultancy Based Report option for my dissertation as I was keen to get hands-on experience with a real company. Throughout this project, I explored techniques for marketing a social enterprise company (Restorify) in Northern Ireland’s start-up sector, which quite naturally led me to explore marketing roles in a start-up company.

I was initially drawn to apply to HeadBox as it sounded like an interesting role in a fast-growing company where I could gain a lot of experience. I particularly liked how the job description encouraged people to apply if they had no previous marketing experience but felt they would be well-suited for the role.

After a number of interviews, I had a good sense that this was a company I wanted to work for. I had experience working in hospitality and organising several events during my undergrad at university. During COVID, I was impressed by businesses that adapted their models overnight such as local companies that

began delivering or hosting online events. HeadBox was using technology to help different venues adapt their space which drew me in further. I really liked everyone I spoke to during the interview process and felt I’d be a good fit.

Since leaving university, how did you get to this point in your career?

I studied Law for my undergrad at Trinity College Dublin, then spent a few years doing a mix of travelling and working in law firms in Belfast and New York. However, I knew I didn’t really want to continue with law as my career. COVID hit while I was working as a paralegal in New York, so I decided to return home to Belfast.

I applied for the MSc in Management at Queen’s as it was a broad degree in which I could explore different areas of business and find out what I was interested in. I really enjoyed all the modules, but particularly marketing, and learned a lot from the Consultancy Based Report. I accepted my job at HeadBox in October 2021 and worked remotely from Belfast for a few months before moving to London, and have been here since.

What is it like working for a start-up company?

I think having direct access to senior-level colleagues such as your COO and CEO is a fantastic experience for anyone at any level. It really embraces the human side of a company that you don’t get at some larger places. The high-energy, fast-paced and forward-thinking environment is exciting and I found it really easy to get used to. The flexibility and desire to succeed in the business is engaging and exciting to be a part of! It will bring out your innovative and creative side and it’s a great opportunity to rise to any challenges.

What advice would you give to students looking to work for a startup?

Think about what industries spark your interest. Is it fintech, sports, fashion? There are lots of cool companies that are disrupting traditional industries and passion goes a long way in start-ups. Once you’re in, get stuck in and learn as

much as you can. I would recommend being proactive, taking online courses and going to networking events. Ask plenty of questions.

With any job, not just a startup, you get out what you put in. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and throw yourself into the role.

What kind of roles do you see available in the startup industry?

The great thing about working in a start-up is the sheer breadth of roles available. At HeadBox we do pretty much everything in-house, which means that the office is a melting pot of product designers, sales executives, accountants, marketers and, of course, event professionals. The diversity of roles rewards so many different university degrees, and gives you the chance to learn from people who may have studied something totally different from you.

Have any questions? Get in touch with Kate here!

Categories
advice Future-Ready Skills Graduate success transferrable skills

The Power of Transferable Skills: Unlocking Your Potential for Success

As a university student, you’re likely focused on acquiring knowledge and skills specific to your chosen field of study. However, it’s important to recognize that developing transferable skills can have numerous benefits that extend beyond your academic journey. In this blog, we will explore ten key advantages of transferable skills and how they can enhance your employability, career prospects, and personal growth.

  1. Enhanced Employability: Transferable skills are highly sought after by employers as they can be applied across various roles and industries. By developing these skills, you significantly improve your chances of securing employment after graduation. Employers value candidates who possess a diverse skill set, as it demonstrates adaptability and the ability to contribute effectively to different work environments.

2. Career Flexibility: Transferable skills provide you with the flexibility to explore different career paths and adapt to changing job market demands. With these skills, you can transfer your capabilities to new roles and industries, allowing for greater career mobility. This versatility empowers you to seize opportunities that align with your evolving interests and aspirations.

3. Increased Market Value: Recognizing and developing transferable skills increases your market value as a potential employee. Employers recognize the value of these skills and are often willing to offer higher salaries or better opportunities to candidates who possess them. Your ability to contribute in various areas and adapt to new challenges makes you an asset to any organization.

4. Adapting to Change: Transferable skills equip you with the ability to adapt to new situations and challenges. As the workplace continues to evolve, being adaptable and open to change is crucial for success. Developing these skills helps you embrace new technologies, work methods, and industry trends, ensuring your relevance in a dynamic professional landscape.

5. Effective Communication: Communication skills are essential across all fields and highly valued by employers. Enhancing your ability to articulate ideas, listen actively, and convey information effectively benefits you in your academic, professional, and personal life. Strong communication skills enable you to connect with others, build relationships, and collaborate successfully.

6. Collaboration and Teamwork: Collaboration is an essential skill in the workplace. Developing your ability to work effectively in teams, collaborate with diverse individuals, and contribute positively to group dynamics enhances your employability and makes you a valuable team member. These skills enable you to navigate interpersonal relationships, foster creativity, and achieve collective goals.

7. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Transferable skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking enable you to approach challenges from multiple perspectives, analyze complex situations, and develop innovative solutions. These skills are valuable in all areas of life, including academia and the workplace. Employers seek individuals who can think critically, solve problems efficiently, and make informed decisions.

8. Leadership Potential: Recognizing and developing transferable skills can help you nurture your leadership potential. Skills like decision-making, conflict resolution, and delegation are essential for effective leadership and can be developed through various experiences and opportunities. Leadership qualities are highly regarded by employers and can open doors to managerial positions and increased responsibilities.

9. Personal Growth: Developing transferable skills goes beyond professional benefits. It also promotes personal growth by enhancing self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-motivation. These skills can positively impact your personal relationships and overall well-being. As you develop these skills, you become better equipped to handle challenges, communicate your needs, and build meaningful connections with others.

10. Lifelong Learning: Transferable skills foster a mindset of continuous learning and personal development. By recognizing and developing these skills, you cultivate a desire to acquire new knowledge and enhance existing abilities, leading to ongoing growth throughout your life. This commitment to lifelong learning ensures that you remain adaptable and resilient in the face of evolving demands.

Conclusion: Recognizing and developing transferable skills is a transformative journey that can greatly enhance your employability, career prospects, and personal fulfillment. These skills empower you to navigate a rapidly changing world and embrace new opportunities. By investing in your transferable skills, you unlock your potential for success in both professional and personal spheres, paving the way for a rewarding and fulfilling future.

Find more careers advice here.

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advice Career planning employability Employer Panels Graduate success

IoD Young Directors Forum with nijobfinder

Embarking on a career journey can be both exciting and daunting for university students. With the ever-evolving job market and increasing competition, it is crucial to gather insights from experienced professionals who have successfully navigated their own career paths. Recently, we had the privilege of hosting a panel discussion with industry experts, Gavin Annon, Claire Brannigan, Connor Diamond, and Steve Lazars, who shared valuable advice and personal anecdotes about their professional journeys.

Embrace Mistakes and Take Risks: Gavin Annon, Sales & Marketing Director at Mount Charles Group, emphasized the importance of making mistakes and taking risks. He encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, as normal is no longer the norm in today’s competitive job market. Gavin stated, “Please do go make mistakes because nothing’s perfect…you’ve got to make those mistakes and take risks.” Embracing mistakes allows for growth and learning, ultimately helping individuals discover their true capabilities.

Define Your Own Path: Claire Brannigan, Founder of Skinakin Ltd, highlighted the significance of intentionality in shaping one’s career. She emphasized the need to be intentional about where you’re going and what your why is. Claire shared her own experience, stating, “It was only when I started to take a step back and say, ‘What do you want to do? What’s your interest? What are you good at?’…things started to change.” By aligning your career choices with your values, interests, and strengths, you can find fulfillment and success.

Develop a Diverse Skill Set: The panelists emphasized the importance of developing a diverse skill set. Steve Lazars, Director & Founder of Ethnic Minority Employment & Entrepreneurship Network, urged students to broaden their horizons and gain experience across different sectors. He shared, “Putting myself out there actually gave me certain tools, contacts, and understandings about bringing solutions to the product…find some innovative ways of finding solutions.” A diverse skill set enhances adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and brings added value to any role.

Focus on People Skills: While technical knowledge is important, the panelists stressed the significance of people skills in career growth. Claire Brannigan stated, “The things that will really help accelerate your career is the human side of your skill set…being able to communicate effectively, negotiate, and understand different cultural norms.” Developing strong interpersonal skills, such as effective communication and adaptability, can set individuals apart and open doors to new opportunities.

Embrace Curiosity and Continuous Learning: The experts highlighted the importance of curiosity and continuous learning. Connor Diamond, Head of Digital Insights & nijobfinder.co.uk at Mediahuis Ireland, encouraged students to continually set and review goals, both professional and personal. He emphasized the value of pursuing hobbies and interests outside of work, as they can bring joy and enrich one’s life. Steve Lazars added, “Stay curious, join the dots across different domains, bring value back…always be a detective and solve problems.” Embracing curiosity and a thirst for knowledge can lead to innovative thinking and contribute to career success.

Summary: The event provided invaluable insights for students navigating their career journeys. Panellists emphasised the importance of taking risks, finding the right environment, developing a diverse skill set, staying true to personal values, and fostering a positive attitude. These key takeaways will empower students to make informed decisions, adapt to a changing job market, and embark on fulfilling and successful careers. Remember, embrace mistakes, seize opportunities, and let your values guide you.

Find more careers advice here.

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Graduate jobs Graduate success interview tips student success

10 Effective Ways to Research a Company as a Student


As a student preparing for your professional journey, researching a company before applying or attending an interview is essential. Understanding a company’s culture, values, and work environment can help you make informed decisions and find the best fit for your career aspirations. To assist you in this process, we’ve compiled a list of ten effective ways for students to research a company. From exploring their website and social media presence to reading employee reviews and attending company events, these research methods will provide you with valuable insights into the company’s ethos. So, let’s dive in and equip you with the knowledge you need to make the right career choices.

Look at the company website

Start by exploring the company’s website. Pay attention to their mission statement, values, and company culture sections. This will give you a solid foundation for understanding their overall ethos.

Check out their social media

Delve into the company’s social media presence. Look for posts that provide insights into their culture, such as employee events and activities. Social media can give you a more candid glimpse into the company’s day-to-day operations.

Read employee reviews

Browse websites like Glassdoor to read reviews from current and former employees. Their experiences can offer valuable perspectives on the company’s work environment and culture.

Talk to alumni

Reach out to any alumni who have completed a placement or worked at the company before. Alumni can provide firsthand insights into the company’s culture and help you make informed decisions.

Attend company events

Take advantage of opportunities to attend company events geared towards potential employees or interns. These events allow you to meet current employees and gain a deeper understanding of the company’s values and culture.

Research company news

Stay updated with the latest company news and press releases. This will give you valuable insights into their strategic priorities, achievements, and industry developments.

Check out their social responsibility initiatives

Many companies engage in social responsibility initiatives, such as sustainability efforts or charitable work. Understanding these initiatives sheds light on their commitment to societal impact and values.

Review their branding and marketing materials

Study the company’s branding and marketing materials, including their website, advertisements, and promotional content. These materials often reflect their culture and values, providing useful information for your research.

Look at their partnerships and collaborations

Examine the company’s partnerships and collaborations with other organizations. Understanding their network and alliances can reveal their industry standing, shared values, and strategic priorities.

Ask questions during the interview process

During interviews, don’t hesitate to ask thoughtful questions about the company’s culture and values. This demonstrates your genuine interest and eagerness to align with their vision and mission.

By following these ten effective research methods, you’ll gain valuable insights into a company’s culture, values, and overall work environment. Armed with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions and find the best fit for your professional aspirations.

Find more interview prep tips here.

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Graduate success placement work experience

Top 10 Tips for Making the Most out of Your Placement

Embarking on a placement is an exciting opportunity for students at Queen’s University Belfast to gain practical experience in their chosen field. Whether you’re about to start your placement or are already knee-deep in the experience, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten tips to help you make the most of your time and thrive in the professional environment. Let’s dive in!

  1. Set Clear Objectives

Before you begin your placement, take some time to define your goals and objectives. Identify what you hope to achieve during this experience, whether it’s acquiring new skills, specializing in a particular area, or expanding your professional network. Clear objectives will keep you focused and motivated throughout your placement.

2. Understand the Company Culture

Every workplace has its unique culture and values. Take the initiative to understand your company’s culture and align your actions accordingly. Embracing the company’s values will not only help you fit in better but also make you more productive and successful in your role.

3. Develop a Good Relationship with Your Supervisor

Your supervisor will play a crucial role in guiding and supporting you throughout your placement. Building a strong relationship with them from the start is essential. Maintain open lines of communication, seek regular feedback on your work, and proactively address any challenges or concerns.

4. Be Proactive

Don’t wait for instructions; take the initiative to go above and beyond. Volunteer for new tasks and responsibilities, demonstrate your eagerness to learn, and showcase your skills. Being proactive will not only enhance your learning experience but also leave a lasting positive impression on your colleagues and supervisors.

5. Network with Colleagues

One of the greatest benefits of a placement is the opportunity to connect with professionals in your industry. Engage with your colleagues, attend company events, and participate in networking activities. Building relationships can provide valuable insights, potential mentors, and even future job opportunities.

6. Ask Questions

Never hesitate to ask questions when you’re unsure about something. It’s better to seek clarification than to make mistakes that could have been easily avoided. Remember, everyone understands that you’re there to learn, and asking questions demonstrates your dedication and willingness to grow.

7. Be Professional

Treat your placement as a professional job. Maintain a high level of professionalism at all times, from your punctuality to your appearance and behavior. Dress appropriately, respect your colleagues’ time and opinions, and adhere to the company’s policies and guidelines.

8. Keep a Record of Your Achievements

Documenting your accomplishments during your placement is essential for future reference. Keep track of your projects, tasks, and any notable achievements. This record will serve as a valuable resource when updating your resume and preparing for future job interviews.

9. Seek Feedback

Regularly seek feedback from your supervisor and colleagues. Constructive criticism will help you identify areas for improvement and develop your skills further. Embrace feedback as an opportunity for growth and demonstrate your commitment to personal and professional development.

10. Leave a Good Impression

As your placement comes to an end, ensure you leave a positive lasting impression with your employer. Express your gratitude for the opportunity and convey your interest in potential future roles within the company. This could lead to job offers or valuable references down the line.

Conclusion

Your placement at Queen’s University Belfast is a significant stepping stone towards your future career. By setting clear objectives, embracing the company culture, nurturing professional relationships, and demonstrating proactive and professional behavior, you can maximize your experience and lay a solid foundation for future success. Remember, this placement is an opportunity for growth, learning, and professional development. Make the most of it, and enjoy every moment of your journey!

Find placements on MyFuture.

Categories
Creative careers entrepreneur Graduate success Innovation international students Start Ups student success Student success stories

Savannah Dodd: Photography Ethics Centre

Photographer and camera
Savannah Dodd

My name is Savannah Dodd, I’ve studied for my PhD in Anthropology, that’s in the School of HAPP and I am the founder and director of the Photography Ethics Centre.

Tell us a bit more about your business idea.

I’m passionate about photography ethics because photographs are immensely powerful. They shape how we think about the world and this means that when we take and share photographs, we are shaping how others think about the world. So this is, like, a huge amount of power that we have as image makers and this power comes with a lot of responsibility, so I think it’s really important to think about ‘how can we use that power of image making responsibly?’ and I think a really good way of doing so is to think about it through the lens of ethics.

How did you get the initial business idea?

I founded the Photography Ethics Centre because I realised that my background in anthropology and the things that I’d learned through doing a Masters, and now a PhD in Anthropology has really prepared me with an important set of skills and these skills have helped me be more effective in my photography and more ethical about how I approach my photographic practice. So, I realised that anthropology has helped me a lot with my photography with building skills, but these skills that I’ve built are not universal. So, what I’m really trying to do is to sort of translate these skills that I gained from anthropology and make it applicable and useful for photographers who might not have the same background.

How has the business developed since your initial idea?

In some ways, not a lot has changed with the organisation since I started and in some ways, it’s changed a lot. I think the biggest change has been, really, in terms of my expectations. I think I needed to temper some of my expectations, but that’s not always easy when we’re participating in a culture of startup pitching because you really have to think in terms of best-case scenarios. So, I think tempering my expectations and maybe being happy with smaller, more marginal successes was really important. I think, on the other hand, things haven’t changed a lot because I, sort of, have come full circle back into my original idea which, I think, the lesson there is just that I need to trust my gut a little bit more.

What activities at Queen’s helped you get to where you are?

I was really fortunate that when I first had the idea for the Photography Ethics Centre, I was able to participate as part of a cohort of students to do a Kickstarter Accelerator programme through the Graduate School at Queen’s and that was just a really great opportunity to, sort of, spend time on business development with some support. I was also accepted into Dragon’s Den one year and that was a brilliant opportunity, really great practice at building my confidence and pitching and it’s just always been really beneficial to know that there’s somewhere that I can go for advice because, inevitably, I’ve run into hurdles or questions that I haven’t known how to answer so it’s been great to have the resource at Queen’s.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I think the most important piece of advice that I wish I’d had when I was first starting out is that, you know, blocking out time for other things in your life or taking breaks or relaxing on the weekends or in the evenings is that’s not a reward but that’s an important part of how you divide your time. I think by not taking time for myself to really recharge, to relax to, sort of, put the laptop away really lead me to a bit of a burnout so I think that really the biggest, biggest lesson I learned there is that, you know, breaks are not treats, you deserve them, inherently, you don’t have to earn them.

Categories
Graduate success interview tips student success

How to Succeed in an Interview as a Graduate: Essential Tips

As a recent graduate, stepping into the world of job interviews can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. However, with the right preparation and mindset, you can navigate this crucial stage with confidence and increase your chances of securing that dream job. At Queen’s University Belfast, we understand the importance of interview success, and we’ve compiled a list of essential tips to help you ace your next interview.

  1. Research the Company:

Before your interview, take the time to thoroughly research the company you’re applying to. Familiarize yourself with their mission, vision, values, and the products or services they offer. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest in the organization, showing the interviewer that you’re serious about joining their team.

2. Prepare for Common Interview Questions:

While each interview is unique, there are several common questions that frequently arise across different industries. Take advantage of this by preparing your answers in advance. Reflect on your experiences, skills, and achievements, and craft concise and compelling responses that highlight your strengths. Practice your answers until you feel comfortable delivering them naturally.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice:

Practice makes perfect, and this holds true for interviews as well. Enlist the help of a friend, family member, or mentor to conduct mock interviews with you. Alternatively, you can practice in front of a mirror to observe your body language and non-verbal cues. Rehearsing your responses will boost your confidence, improve your delivery, and help you handle any unexpected curveballs during the actual interview.

4. Dress Appropriately:

First impressions matter, and your appearance plays a significant role in shaping them. Dress professionally and appropriately for the job interview, ensuring your clothes are clean, neatly pressed, and suitable for the company culture. By presenting yourself as polished and well put-together, you’ll convey your professionalism and respect for the opportunity.

5. Arrive Early:

Punctuality is a sign of reliability and respect. Make it a point to arrive early for your interview. This will not only give you a buffer in case of unexpected delays but also allow you to compose yourself before the meeting. Arriving on time demonstrates your commitment to the process and sets a positive tone for the rest of the interview.

6. Show Enthusiasm:

During the interview, it’s crucial to let your enthusiasm shine through. Smile, maintain good eye contact, and engage actively with the interviewer. Express your genuine interest in the role and the company, highlighting specific aspects that appeal to you. Positive energy and a friendly demeanour can make a lasting impression and showcase your potential as a motivated and passionate candidate.

7. Highlight Your Skills and Experiences:

Use the interview as an opportunity to showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements. Relate your past accomplishments to the requirements of the job, providing specific examples that demonstrate your capabilities. Whether it’s through internships, coursework, or extracurricular activities, emphasize how your unique background and skill set can contribute to the company’s success.

8. Ask Thoughtful Questions:

At the end of the interview, the interviewer will typically ask if you have any questions. Prepare a list of thoughtful and relevant questions about the company, the role, or the team dynamics. This not only demonstrates your interest and engagement but also allows you to gather valuable insights about the position and company culture. Asking insightful questions showcases your curiosity and shows that you’ve done your homework.

Conclusion:

Embarking on the job interview journey as a graduate can feel overwhelming, but remember that you possess unique skills and experiences that make you an attractive candidate. By researching the company, practicing your responses, dressing appropriately, arriving early, and showing enthusiasm, you can greatly enhance your likelihood of performing successfully during your interview.

Find out more: https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/graduate-support/