Employers value work experience, but that’s not always easy to come by for full-time university students who spend their time concentrating on their studies and may not know the best way to find it.
This doesn’t mean that it’s not possible for them to find it, however. Students who apply any of these tips can build their work experience while they’re still studying.
- Volunteer
Volunteering is one of the easiest ways to get work experience. There are lots of opportunities out there and they can take people all over the world, which makes it an exciting way to get some work experience.
It also gives volunteers the chance to contribute to a cause they truly believe in, which can be incredibly rewarding. More importantly, volunteering shows potential employees the students can balance responsibilities between their volunteering work and their studies.
Apply for an internship
Internships, paid or unpaid, provide the people who secure one with valuable experience.
Normally, the interns will work at the place of business for two to three months and learn not just about general working life and how the industry works, but also how that particular company operates.
Competition for internships is tough — an internship always looks fabulous on a CV and can lead to full-time employment — so it’s best to apply early.
Get a summer job
When the summer comes, students have a lot of free time on their hands… more than they know what to do with, in some cases. It’s an excellent opportunity to get some work experience and earn some money.
Bar work and waitering is a popular option, but it’s also possible to work in a shop, a friend’s family business or other place of business.
Use the university careers service
Students don’t need to struggle to find work experience while they’re at university. They’re at a critical stage in their career progression, so to speak, which is why universities have a careers service to provide them with help and guidance on finding employments.
Students can make use of this precious resource to find jobs and work experience opportunities, by signing up to the careers service and receiving updates on workshops, career fairs, taster days and, of course, job vacancies.
Students may have to study hard when they’re at university, but it doesn’t mean that they won’t be able to find work experience during their studies.
There are plenty of opportunities for students to secure some and make their CV more appealing to potential employers. The time they spend building their experience will serve them well when they’ve graduated.