University is about much more than gaining a degree. Employers look for evidence of skills, experience and personal development alongside academic achievement. Throughout your time at university, there are many opportunities to build valuable employability skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and commercial awareness.
Getting involved in student societies, volunteering, part-time work, internships, placements, research projects and employer-led activities can help you develop practical experience and demonstrate your skills to future employers. These experiences can also help you explore career options, build your professional network and gain confidence in a workplace environment.
Skills employers look for (Target Jobs) – this article is a useful starting point to help you understand what graduate recruiters look for and how to develop and demonstrate those skills in applications and interviews.
The value of part-time work experience
Many students assume that only degree-related work experience is valuable to employers. In reality, graduate recruiters often place significant value on part-time jobs in sectors such as retail, hospitality, customer service, leisure and tourism because they demonstrate key workplace skills and a strong work ethic.
Employers also recognise that students who have worked alongside their studies have demonstrated commitment, reliability and self-motivation. Successfully juggling university coursework, exams and paid employment show strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing demands.
Part-time jobs while studying – here you’ll find links to sources of vacancies and the GCU Careers Service’s Guide to looking for a part-time job.
Develop yourself– find out more about different ways to develop your skills at while at GCU including volunteering, LinkedIn Learning and Careers Service initiatives such as GAL (Grow, Aspire, Lead) and the GCU Employability Award.
The value of volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to enhance your university experience while developing valuable skills that employers look for, including teamwork, communication, leadership and problem-solving. It can help you build confidence, expand your professional network, gain experience for your CV, and make a positive impact in your community. Many students also use volunteering to explore career interests and demonstrate their commitment and initiative to future employers.
To find out more about the benefits of volunteering and relevant websites go to Develop Yourself then choose ‘Volunteering’.
Engage early
The earlier you start engaging with opportunities and reflecting on the skills you are developing, the better prepared you will be for applying for placements, internships, graduate jobs and further study. By making the most of your time at university, you can graduate with both academic knowledge and strong evidence of experiences that will help you stand out in a competitive job market.
