Autumn term has come to an end and Christmas is nearly upon us. First years are having emotional departures from their newfound besties, while final years are compartmentalising their holiday time to juggle revision, coursework writing and navigating the various stages of their job and postgraduate applications.
Those in the in-between-years are probably wondering why this article is addressed to you. The hard fact to face is that by this time next year, many of the deadlines for high-competition graduate training schemes will have passed, with placements with ‘rolling deadlines’ fast filling up as we move into the new year. What’s more, many schemes look favourably upon candidates with relevant work experience, which needs to be organised in advance. In other words, if you are considering applying for a graduate role in the next academic year, it’s time to start exploring your options. Follow these top tips to put the right foot forward in the next step of your university journey!
1. Start early
Applying for a graduate scheme comes at a busy time in every student’s life but it doesn’t have to be scary. The most important advice is to start your research as early as possible and make the most of the fantastic careers service that the University of Nottingham has to offer! They can give you informed guidance on the career paths available to your degree and, once you are in the midst of applying, will provide you with a host of preparation services from practice psychometric tests to mock telephone interviews.
2. Get to know yourself
Before you research any other company, take the time to develop your self awareness so that you can make decisions based on what you enjoy and where you excel. Think about the best and worst parts of your degree: do you love organising group presentations but can’t stand the silent zone of the library? Consider your societies too and particularly any committee positions that you feel you are thriving in.
3. Consider the type of scheme
Once you have an idea of what you are suited to, choosing a scheme becomes a lot easier, but don’t forget the practicalities. Take into account how much you want to earn, how far you are willing to commute and how long you want your scheme to last. Do you want a job to be guaranteed at the end of your placement? Every scheme is different, but there are often similarities according to profession. Also, make your familiar with the different scheme types available to you. Rotational schemes give the opportunity to move between multiple roles and departments and often involve taking on a managerial position for some time. On the other hand, technical expert schemes hone in on specific skill sets, making them perfect for those with a particular career in mind.
4. Do your company research
While company culture is often the make-it or break-it factor for a person’s work-place experience, it is notoriously under-researched. Firm size has a significant impact on both the general ‘feel’ of the business and your daily responsibilities. Consider what you want your work-life balance to look like, whether you would prefer a corporate or more informal atmosphere and if you would like the opportunity to travel with work. Moreover, research company policy on training and qualification opportunities and see if they align with the progression paths that you see yourself in the future.
5. Explore other opportunities
As the saying goes, it’s usually not the best option to put all your eggs in one basket. Even if you have your heart set on one scheme, apply to at least a couple of back-ups. Smaller companies traditionally have much later deadlines and are also less competitive, making them worth balancing alongside applications for major companies if they are your first choice. Finally, remember that graduate schemes are not be-all and end-all! Use your personal tutor and the careers service to consider all the paths open to you and don’t panic if your applications don’t work out the first time you try. Good luck!