My name is Carmel and I’m a Career Consultant working within the Careers, Employability and Skills team here at Queen’s.
A Career Consultant provides impartial and confidential career information, advice and guidance
We do this through 30 minute one-to-one career consultations.
These can be done either online or face-to-face in the new One Elmwood Student Centre.
There is a Career Consultant aligned to each school in the university, so you’ll often see us out and about in your classes,
supporting the delivery of careers and employability within the curriculum.
The career consultation is perhaps very different from what you have previously experienced within the school system, as you take a more active role in the process.
You will be able to consider your next step and put a plan in place to move forward.
There are many benefits to engaging with a Career Consultant, regardless if you know
exactly what you want to do, have absolutely no idea what you want to do, or maybe somewhere in between.
Making a career decision can often be overwhelming and confusing.
The best part of my job is that every day is different.
It aligns with my personal values of helping and supporting others
and making a positive contribution to those around me.
The worst part of my job is seeing students that are overwhelmed and anxious about their career prospects, while the best part is supporting those students to recognise their own potential, to build their confidence and to reach their aspirations.
Queen’s Master’s student Mohit Khandare visited Graham Construction as part of our Work Shadowing programme – an experience which eventually helped land him a graduate role as an Assistant Planner with the company. Here, he shares his story.
Every year the Careers, Employability and Skills team at Queen’s run a Work Shadowing Week 2023. The programme is an opportunity for students to get a taste of what it’s like to work in their target industry. Students spend a day shadowing professionals which helps bring a job to life and helping students to decide if a particular career is right for them. Observing professionals in the work place not only provides an early career insight, it also serves as a valuable networking platform – as Master’s student Mohit Khandare discovered when he visited Graham Construction during Work Shadowing Week.
‘I was impressed with the team’s commitment to quality
“I had the pleasure of visiting the GRAHAM Interior Fit-Out division working on the Belfast City Quays 3 site doing interior fit-out for Microsoft, B-Secur, and Aflac Northern Ireland and was thoroughly impressed with their project management and attention to detail.
“I was fascinated by the 360° view from the 12th floor, where one could see GRAHAM’s projects, which are either completed and running or in the completion phase. From partnering with global technology giants to household names in fashion, GRAHAM listens to its clients to deliver cost-effective outcomes, no matter how challenging the project may be. “I was particularly impressed with the team’s ability to creatively implement solutions that reduce cost, drive efficiency, and ensure timely delivery. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the interior fit-out projects I observed.
“Additionally, GRAHAM Group’s focus on structured growth and developing its interior fit-out scope indicates that they are constantly looking for ways to improve their operations and overcome any obstacles they may encounter. The visit also highlighted the importance of coordination and communication among the different trades to ensure a successful outcome.”
‘The team were happy to share their experiences and insights with me’
Having been impressed with the company, Mohit used the opportunity to make vital connections with the professionals he was shadowing. “During my visit, I had the opportunity to speak with members of the GRAHAM’s interior fit-out team and who took time out of their busy schedule to share valuable insights about the company, and on the division’s operations. They were knowledgeable and passionate about their work, and they were happy to share their experiences and insights with me. They also highlighted the importance of innovative design, value-added construction, and on-time completion, which
are all hallmarks of GRAHAM’s approach to project management. I learned a lot about the interior fit-out industry and the challenges and opportunities that come with it.
“My visit to the GRAHAM was a truly enlightening experience and an excellent opportunity to learn about the complexities of construction projects and the skills required to manage them successfully.”
“Thanks to Careers, Employability and Skills at Queen’s for giving me the opportunity to learn and gain this wonderful experience under the shadow of elite construction industry professionals.”
Taking the next step
Armed with an insight into the company, it’s values and operations, Mohit was in an advantageous position when it came to applying for a job as Assistant Planner with the company.
“I am excited to begin my journey as an Assistant Planner at GRAHAM Group’s Interior Fit-Out Division, a company known for its exceptional attention to detail and high-quality solutions in the UK and Ireland.
“As I embark on this new chapter, I can’t help but reflect on the challenges I faced during my time at Queen’s.
“It was a pivotal part of my educational journey, providing me with a global perspective that I will carry forward throughout my career.
“However, it was not without its difficulties. Adapting to a new environment, overcoming language barriers, and navigating cultural differences were just a few of the obstacles I encountered. Through determination and resilience, I was able to overcome these challenges and thrive during those tough times.
“As I begin my new role at GRAHAM, I am eager to apply the skills and knowledge I gained during my time at Queen’s and contribute to the company’s success.
“Thanks to the team at Careers, Employability and Skills for their never ending support and motivation throughout the journey at Queen’s.
“As I take on my new responsibilities as an Assistant Planner, I am eager to learn and grow in this role. I am confident that with the support of the team at GRAHAM we will achieve great success together.”
Claudine Sutherland an Employer Engagement Consultant from Careers, Employability and Skills who runs Work Shadowing Week says: “Work Shadowing Week brings students and employers together in a meaningful way which can be so beneficial as Mohit’s story demonstrates. Mohit had a fantastic experiential day and it’s great news that he has now landed a role as an Assistant Planner as a result.”
During my time as an intern at Queen’s University Belfast’s Student Experience Team, I had the incredible opportunity to work alongside a dynamic group of people dedicated to enhancing the university experience for international students. From supporting video production to conducting research and providing feedback, my internship provided me with invaluable insights into the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to creating a welcoming and enriching environment for students.
Working with the International Student Group:
One of the highlights of my internship was working closely with the international student group. Together, we collaborated on filming promotional and informational videos aimed at helping international students navigate their journey at Queen’s. It was a rewarding experience to witness first-hand the impact of these videos in providing crucial information, easing the transition, and creating a sense of belonging for students from diverse backgrounds.
Building upon my Research Skills:
Another significant aspect of my internship involved conducting research on other universities to identify potential areas where Queens could further improve its support for international and local students. By exploring innovative practices implemented by other institutions, I aimed to identify valuable insights and recommend new initiatives that could enhance the overall student experience at Queens. This research not only broadened my understanding of the international education landscape but also allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing development of support systems at Queens.
Contributing to Website Enhancement:
Additionally, I had the opportunity to provide constructive feedback on the “My Queens” webpage—a vital platform for students to access information and resources. By analysing its user interface, content, and functionality, I proposed enhancements to ensure that the website remains user-friendly and serves as a comprehensive hub for students seeking assistance. Collaborating with the Student Experience Team, I contributed ideas to enrich the webpage’s content, making it more inclusive and responsive to the needs of students.
Learning from Student Queries:
Working at the student information point reception desk on Wednesday mornings provided me with a unique perspective on the challenges and concerns that students face. By interacting directly with students and observing how my colleagues handled their queries, I gained insight into effective communication strategies and problem-solving techniques. This experience deepened my appreciation for the importance of providing timely and accurate information to students, fostering a supportive environment for their academic and personal growth.
My internship at Queen’s University Belfast’s Student Experience Team was an enriching and fulfilling experience. Through my involvement in various tasks, I was able to contribute to the enhancement of support services for international students, provide valuable insights, and learn from the experiences of my colleagues and fellow students. Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as an intern and would highly recommend other students like myself to apply for internships within the university and even volunteering opportunities as it has been a very enjoyable experience and I have enjoyed meeting and interacting with new people from many different backgrounds.
Could you join a student team and tackle a real challenge facing a client or organisation? Hear from the students that did!
Students gained a different type of work experience by providing a consultancy service to real clients and working on a real challenge that those clients face.
They worked in a project team with other students from different disciplines and were facilitated through a Design Thinking process to resolve the client’s problem.
This programme provided students with practical experience for developing these Future-Ready Skills: Interpersonal Skills, Commercial Awareness, Initiative, Innovation and Creativity.
Brian Conway – Mechanical Engineering
“My favourite part of the experience was the multidisciplinary aspect. From an engineering background, I think it was interesting to learn about Finance, Marketing, other people’s courses and how they can bring their knowledge to the course as well”
Xinxin Wang – International, Commercial and Business Law
“I learned creative thinking skills to use my imagination in consulting projects and cooperation skills to persuade people to accept my ideas and I will accept the others also”
Hannah McConville – Planning, Environment and Development
“The best part of this week has definitely been meeting new people and putting everybody’s ideas together. I’ve also found it very refreshing taking a break from revising and placement and things like that. So yeah, I’ve definitely enjoyed it
Mary McCormick – Biological Sciences
A big one has definitely been able to collaborate with new people to create new, innovative ideas.
Missed this event? Check out other QUB Careers Events here
The NI Grad Fair allowed final year students the opportunity to discover immediate graduate and training opportunities. The Fair provided a platform for employers to share their opportunities for 2023 and connect with a talented and diverse pool of students, and it gave students the chance to speak to representatives from an abundance of local and national employers, all in one place offering graduate opportunities for 2023.
We spoke with some employers at the grad fair about what opportunities they have available and who is their ideal graduate
Áine works for Wilson Nesbitt Solicitors which has established itself as one of Northern Ireland’s top law firms. Their success can be attributed to working with a strong set of principles at our core and a determined focus to get the best result for their clients.
“The opportunities were have available are traineeship roles. A three-year training contract where we’ll provide support. We have Paralegal roles which are open to any degree background. The skills we look for in individuals are life skills, working with people, communication skills, an eye for detail, working with others, working on your own initiative and a commercial awareness.”
Baker McKenzie
Next up is Jamie and Ciarán who work for Shoosmiths, a law firm clients choose for excellent service, incisive thinking and above all for our ability to focus on what matters.
“The opportunities we have to offer are paralegal roles, a trainee solicitor opportunities or anything else like that. The skills we look for are commercial awareness, teamwork, adaptability and just showing that you have a real interest in law.”
Ryan Young works for Delap & Waller, who believe that every client should be a repeat client and focus on providing excellent customer service, open communication and responsiveness.
“The opportunities we offer are graduate trainee program for the Chartered Accountancy exams. We look for students with a broad range of skills, people who have maybe an aptitude for Maths and Science, Data Analytics. Many of the non-traditional degrees bring a range of skills that are useful.”
FinTru
Jonathan works for Hill Vellacott, Chartered Accountants who are leading provider of professional services to organisations in the SME sector, our market-leading team of over 40 professionals serves a wide portfolio of clients right across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and the UK.
“We’re recruiting for Mechanical, Electrical, BIM and Sustainability Engineers. We look for someone with a construction background or an understanding of Engineering, a good work ethic, ambition to learn and be a sponge.”
Madison and Megan work for Arthur Cox whose reputation is founded upon proven professional skills, a thorough understanding of their clients’ requirements and practical commercial approach.
“Our training contract applications will open in the summertime and we look for someone who can work well in a team, has good communication skills and some commercial awareness as well.”
Gateley
Caitlin Sweeney works within Lakeland Dairies, a farmer-owned dairy processing co-operative with a heritage of excellence spanning over 100 years. They process over 1.8 Billion litres of farm-produced milk into a wide range of dairy foodservice products, consumer foods and dairy food ingredients which service over 80 countries across the globe.
“We’re looking for a Systems Solutions Analyst. So a Business Analyst type role or Marketing graduates, Human Resources graduates. When your CVs come through, layout is a very big thing for us. We want to be able to get your key points right there in front of us and a cover letter always helps”
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.
As an employer, tapping into the diverse talent pool of international students can bring numerous advantages to your organization. The recent changes in UK immigration policies have made it easier than ever to hire international graduates, allowing you to benefit from their skills and knowledge. In this blog post, we will explore two key routes for employing international students: the Graduate Route and the Skilled Worker Route. Additionally, we will cover the salary requirements and the process of obtaining a Skilled Worker route license. Let’s dive in!
The Graduate Route
The Graduate Route offers international graduates the opportunity to work or search for employment in the UK for up to two years (or three years for PhD holders). This route presents several benefits for employers:
No sponsorship required: International students can apply for this unsponsored route independently, relieving employers of the sponsorship process and associated costs.
No employer fees: Unlike other immigration routes, the Graduate Route does not require employers to pay any fees.
Trial opportunity: This route allows you to observe and assess the performance of international graduates before committing to sponsorship.
Potential for switching to the Skilled Worker route: If you find a valuable employee during their time on the Graduate Route, they can apply to switch into the Skilled Worker route, providing a seamless transition.
The Skilled Worker Route
The Skilled Worker visa has replaced the previous Tier 2 visa and offers employers even more advantages:
Increased flexibility in skill levels: Employers can now sponsor jobs at or above the minimum skill level of RQF 3, equivalent to A-level qualifications, making a wider range of roles eligible for sponsorship.
No time limit or cooling-off period: There are no restrictions on the length of time an employee can spend under the Skilled Worker route, providing greater control over staffing plans. Moreover, there is no cooling-off period between a person’s Skilled Worker visa and their next visa.
No cap on numbers and no Resident Labour Market Test: The removal of these requirements has significantly reduced the time it takes to sponsor a Skilled Worker, allowing for quicker and smoother recruitment processes.
Lower salary commitment: The lower “new entrant” rate has been extended from three to four years, making it more affordable for employers to hire international graduates.
Salary Requirements
When offering a position to graduates switching to the Skilled Worker route, it’s important to meet specific salary criteria:
New entrant salary: Graduates switching within the UK from the Student route or the Graduate Route are considered new entrants. The salary offered to new entrants must be at least £20,480 per year or at least £10.10 per hour, along with meeting 70% of the “going rate” for the job.
Skilled Worker Route License: To employ international graduates under the Skilled Worker route, you will need to obtain a Skilled Worker route license. Here are some key points to consider:
License application process: You can apply for a Skilled Worker route license online by following the government’s guidance on becoming a sponsor.
License fees: The license fees are £536 for small or charitable sponsors and £1,476 for medium or large sponsors. These fees are one-time payments, although you will need to pay again when the license is up for renewal (typically every four years).
Processing time: The government aims to process most applications within eight weeks. For faster processing, you may opt to pay £500 for a decision within ten working days.
Closing Remarks
Employing international students offers great benefits to employers, fostering diversity and bringing fresh perspectives to the workforce. The Graduate Route and the Skilled Worker Route present excellent opportunities for hiring international graduates, with streamlined processes and reduced costs. By embracing international talent, you can strengthen your organization and contribute to a global workforce.
If you have further questions or need assistance with employing international students, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Careers Department at QUB. We are here to support you in navigating the recruitment process and making the most of the talent available to you.
Does the idea of reaching out to strangers and making connections make you nervous? Well, fear not! Networking is not as scary as it sounds, especially when you’re a student at Queen’s University Belfast. In fact, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience that can shape your future in more ways than you can imagine. Building a strong support network during your time at university is essential, and here are ten different ways you can do it:
Join clubs and societies related to your interests or academic field: Queen’s offers a wide range of clubs and societies catering to various interests and academic disciplines. By joining these groups, you’ll not only meet like-minded individuals but also have the opportunity to connect with individuals who share your passion. Whether you’re into sports, arts, or academics, there’s a club or society for you.
2. Attend networking events and career fairs on campus: Universities often host networking events and career fairs where you can interact with professionals from different industries. These events are an excellent opportunity to expand your professional circle, gain insights into potential career paths, and even secure internships or job opportunities. Don’t miss out on these valuable occasions!
3. Participate in student government or leadership positions: Getting involved in student government or taking up leadership positions within student organizations is a fantastic way to network. These roles provide you with the chance to work closely with faculty members, administrators, and other student leaders. Not only will you enhance your leadership skills, but you’ll also forge connections that can help you throughout your academic and professional journey.
4. Engage in community service or volunteer work: Volunteering is a win-win situation. By giving back to the community, you not only make a positive impact but also open doors for networking. Many organizations and charities actively seek volunteers, and through these experiences, you can meet individuals who share your commitment to making a difference. Plus, volunteering looks great on your resume!
5. Form study groups with classmates to share knowledge and support each other: Studying can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Forming study groups with your classmates not only allows you to share knowledge and resources but also fosters a support system. These study groups can turn into lifelong friendships and professional connections, as you’ll be navigating your academic journey together.
6. Utilise online platforms and social media to connect with like-minded individuals: In this digital age, networking has become more accessible than ever. Leverage online platforms and social media to connect with individuals who share your interests or career aspirations. Join relevant groups, participate in discussions, and engage with professionals in your desired field. Platforms like LinkedIn can be particularly helpful in building your professional network.
7. Seek out mentors from faculty members or professionals in your desired field: Mentors can play a crucial role in your personal and professional development. Don’t hesitate to approach faculty members or professionals in your desired field to seek guidance and mentorship. These individuals have valuable insights and experiences to share, and their support can be invaluable as you navigate your academic and career choices.
8. Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to expand your knowledge and meet new people: Queen’s often host a range of seminars, workshops, and guest lectures featuring experts in various fields. These events not only provide opportunities to expand your knowledge but also allow you to meet new people who share your interests. Engaging in conversations with speakers and fellow attendees can help you build connections and gain new perspectives.
9. Join professional associations or student chapters of industry-related organisations: Professional associations and student chapters of industry-related organisations are excellent resources for networking. These groups often host events, conferences, and workshops specifically tailored to your field of interest. By becoming a member, you’ll gain access to a network of professionals and fellow students who can offer guidance, mentorship, and potential career opportunities.
10. Attend alumni events and connect with graduates who can offer advice and support: Alumni events provide a unique opportunity to connect with graduates who have already ventured into the professional world. These individuals have firsthand experience and can offer valuable advice and support. Attending alumni events and engaging with alumni networks can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and valuable connections.
Remember, networking is not about approaching people with an agenda or solely for personal gain. It’s about building genuine relationships, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other. The connections you make during your time at Queen’s can have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life. So, don’t let the word “networking” intimidate you. Embrace the opportunities available to you, step out of your comfort zone, and watch your support network flourish!
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.
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.
Are you open to exploring flexible and non-linear career options beyond your field of study? Queen’s University Belfast’s Careers Team is here to help you navigate the world of possibilities. We have compiled a list of ten effective strategies to expand your horizons and discover alternative career paths. Let’s dive in!
Attend Career Fairs: University career fairs are treasure troves of opportunities. They bring together employers from various industries, allowing you to explore a diverse range of companies and job roles. Take the chance to connect with professionals outside your field of study and discover new possibilities.
2. Request Informational Interviews: Informational interviews are invaluable for gaining insights into alternative career paths. Reach out to professionals working in industries that interest you and request a chat. Learn about the skills, experiences, and day-to-day realities of different roles. This firsthand knowledge can broaden your perspective.
3. Engage in Networking Events: Networking is key to expanding your career options. Attend both in-person and online networking events to connect with professionals from diverse fields. Building a diverse network enables you to learn about different career paths and opens doors to opportunities beyond your immediate knowledge base.
4. Pursue Internships and Part-Time Work: Don’t limit yourself to your field of study. Explore internships and part-time jobs in different industries. This hands-on experience exposes you to new fields and roles, helping you discover what you enjoy and excel at, even if it’s unrelated to your degree.
5. Utilise Online Resources and Job Platforms: Online platforms like LinkedIn and MyFuture are treasure troves of job postings across various sectors. MyFuture, specifically tailored for Queen’s students, allows you to search for entry-level positions or roles open to graduates from any discipline. Explore the wide range of possibilities available to you.
6. Engage in Volunteer Work: Volunteering is a fantastic way to gain exposure to diverse experiences and organizations. Explore different sectors, work with people from various backgrounds, and develop transferable skills applicable to multiple industries. Volunteer work can be a gateway to unexpected career paths.
7. Seek Career Consultations: Take advantage of Queen’s 1-2-1 Careers Consultation service. These consultations provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your interests and strengths. Tap into this valuable resource to explore different career paths and connect with relevant opportunities.
8. Join Professional Associations and Clubs: Many professional associations and clubs welcome student members. By joining these organizations, you gain access to industry-specific events, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities. This exposure enables you to explore careers beyond your degree discipline and build a strong professional network.
9. Participate in Careers Events and Programs: Broaden your skill set and increase your versatility in the job market by participating in career events and programs. Queen’s University Belfast offers a wide range of in-person and online programs in diverse fields. These programs allow you to explore new career options and gain valuable experience.
10. Conduct Informational Interviews with Alumni: Tap into the power of Queen’s alumni network. Reach out to alumni who have pursued unconventional career paths and ask for informational interviews. Alumni can provide valuable insights, advice, and mentorship from their successful non-linear career trajectories.
Embrace the world of possibilities beyond your field of study. By exploring flexible and non-linear career options, you can find fulfilling paths that align with your passions and strengths. Take advantage of the resources and opportunities available at Queen’s University Belfast, and remember, your career journey is unique—forge your path with confidence!
