Four Southampton students recently won the opportunity to shadow a CEO for a day, giving them the chance to experience working at the top of a major company or organisation. Valuable insights like this into the world of work can help students prepare for future careers after university.
A global recruitment firm called Odgers Berndtson run the CEO for a Day programme, which gives aspiring students the opportunity to shadow a high-profile business leader. Following a rigorous selection process involving a written application, an assessment, interviews and group activities, an unprecedented four out of the 15 finalists were from the University of Southampton: Arun Aggarwal (Law), Alex Bunker (History), Jack Covey (Environmental Science) and James Perkins (Chemistry).
Law student Arun applied for the CEO for a Day programme and says that he likes to seize every opportunity to prepare for his future. He even had the opportunity to work in the Cabinet office during talks on Brexit.
Arun said:
I’ve always aspired to be at the top of whatever I do, so I saw this as a brilliant opportunity to gain an insight into the world that I hope to enter into soon. The experience has fuelled my passion for business and for leadership.
Just had an amazing tour of 10 Downing Street #CEOx1Day
— A A Run (@arunjbaggarwal) January 19, 2017
Christopher Shank, Volunteer Officer in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, at the University said:
It is extremely important for students to receive real-world experiences as part of their studies. Not only do these experiences help to bolster the CVs of students, but they also set Southampton students apart from their peers, both in the UK and around the world.
As well as national and international programmes such as CEO for a Day, which students can apply for, the University has a wealth of initiatives that students can get involved with to prepare them for life after their studies.
Students can take advantage of opportunities which include: work placements, internships and volunteering with the University’s commercial partners, networking with top employers at career fairs and employer-led workshops, help with writing CVs, as well as advice and top tips for interviews. Visit the Careers and Employability website to find out more by clicking here. Students can also specialise further with a postgraduate course and gain a more in-depth knowledge of their subject.
Are you looking into your future career prospects? Come along to the next Careers and Placements Fair on Tuesday 28 February between 11:00 and 15:00 in Garden Court, Building 40 on Highfield Campus. Find out more by clicking here.
