As you approach the end of your student career, you must be planning your next move. According to the DLHE survey 2013/14, 61 per cent of all Southampton graduates ended up in full-time employment.
If you are thinking of securing a graduate job, it is time to start planning. Most graduate schemes are already open for applications, operating on a rolling basis.
Here you will find information on how to search for jobs. If you have already decided on a company you would like to work for, learn how to make a successful application.
If, however, you are not interested in graduate schemes, there are brilliant opportunities working for charities and not-for-profit organizations that offer you a chance to develop and make a difference. Meet recruiters looking for people like you on the Thirdsector Website.
On the other hand, if you have not yet decided which career path is right for you, then you should explore summer internship programmes. These typically involve spending 4 – 12 weeks with the employer, doing tasks that graduates usually do. It is a great opportunity to get an insight into the type of career you want to pursue.
Excel Placement Scheme
This scheme, run by the University of Southampton, offers paid internship opportunities during vacation periods and at term-time. You can apply via MyCareer. Opportunities are generally advertised at the beginning of each month.
Here is what Clayton Jones, winner of the Excel Southampton Award for Excellence 2015, had to say about his internship at FX Digital in 2015:
Being part of the Excel Internship programme has opened up my choices like I never could have imagined. By undertaking a well-organised internship in a company in the heart of its field, I have gained invaluable experience, knowledge and networking that I am certain will help my career prospects when I finish university. The whole process from application to the wonderful awards ceremony has been a top experience that I recommend to any person eligible to apply.
Helpful Resources
There are a plethora of resources available to help you along the way, both online and in our Careers Service Centre, located in the Student Services Centre, Building 37, Highfield Campus. Some of them are outlined below:
Books pertaining to Careers & Employability
Target Jobs – Work Experience, Internships & Placements
Prospects – Work Experience & Internships
Bright Network – Graduate Jobs
Alternatively, you can pop into the Careers Service Centre and speak to an advisor on how to get started.