Category: Careers and Enterprise

My career top tip

Author Student Communications | Posted on

by Seif

Making the most of your summer: my internship experience and tips for planning ahead

When summer approaches, most students start thinking about a well-deserved break. But it can also be one of the best opportunities to gain experience, explore your interests and take a step toward your future career.

Last summer, after finishing my first year as an international student studying Software Engineering, I set myself one clear goal: I wanted to gain real work experience in my field. I knew it wouldn’t be easy. Many people told me internships are difficult to secure, especially after just one year at university. Still, I decided to try. I spent weeks searching and applying for opportunities and, like many students, faced plenty of rejections along the way.

Eventually, while browsing opportunities on InfoHub, I discovered the Strive Internship Scheme. The role aligned perfectly with my interests in IT and felt like the right opportunity to gain hands-on experience after my first year. I applied, and this time it worked.

That internship became one of the most valuable experiences of my summer. It gave me practical exposure to the industry, helped me understand how professional teams work, and allowed me to develop skills beyond what we learn in lectures. Most importantly, it gave me confidence in the direction I want my career to take.

If you’re thinking about what to do this summer, here are a few tips that helped me along the way:

  • Start planning early: try to think about your summer goals from the beginning of second term. This gives you enough time to explore opportunities and prepare strong applications.
  • Explore your options: your summer could include internships, volunteering, travelling, or learning a new skill. Think about what experience would benefit you the most.
  • Use the support available: the Career Toolkit is a great place to explore career paths, understand what employers are looking for, and improve your applications. If you need help with your CV, the Careers Lounge is always there to support you.
  • Don’t let rejection stop you: rejections are a normal part of the process. Each application is a chance to improve and get closer to the right opportunity.
  • Have a backup plan: if your original plan doesn’t work out, consider alternatives like volunteering, learning a new skill, or working on personal projects.

Whatever you decide to do this summer, try to make it meaningful. The experiences you gain, even the unexpected ones, can shape your future in ways you might not realise yet. Sometimes all it takes is an opportunity to change your direction. So, start exploring early, keep trying and make this summer count.

Make yourself something to be proud of after summer!

My career top tip

Author Student Communications | Posted on

by Dami

Postgraduate Study: should you go further or go first to work?

As a final-year student studying computer science and artificial intelligence, I’ve been debating whether doing a masters, or getting some industry experience is a better course of action. You’re not alone if you’re asking yourself the same thing. Students in every subject begin thinking about it at various stages of their development.

The opportunity to further specialize is one of the reasons I find postgraduate study appealing. A masters degree can help you advance your knowledge and differentiate yourself in crowded markets, whether you’re in the business, healthcare, AI, or creative sectors. Additionally, it can boost your confidence in research, improve your problem-solving abilities, and introduce you to professionals and scholars who have similar interests.

Nevertheless, it’s critical to consider the big picture. Additional research necessitates a substantial mental and financial commitment. It might involve postponing full-time work or committing to yet another demanding time frame with deadlines and tests. Industry certifications or real-world work experience may be equally, if not more, valuable than a degree for some occupations.

So how am I approaching the decision? Here are a few practical tips that could help you too:

  • Talk to people who’ve done it eg. students, lecturers, and professionals in your field.
  • Attend careers fairs and postgraduate events to understand your options.
  • Reflect honestly on your goals – are you passionate about deeper academic learning, or eager to apply your skills in real-world settings?
  • Research funding, scholarships, and flexible study routes before committing.

Mentoring and student leadership positions have taught me that there is no one “right path.” Both paths can lead to success; some choose to return after gaining industry experience, while others immediately enrol in postgraduate studies.

The option that best suits your objectives, learning preferences, and desired future is ultimately the best one. Remember that your journey doesn’t have to resemble anyone else’s, so take your time and consider your options.

My career top tip

Author Student Communications | Posted on

by Alizeh

As a final-year Law student at UWE, and someone who works as a Law PAL and Student Career Coach, I often spend a lot of time thinking about goals — setting them, changing them, and sometimes letting them go. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that career planning isn’t about having everything figured out early, but about giving yourself the space to explore and grow.

At the start of my degree, I felt pressure to know exactly where I was heading. Like many students, I thought choosing one clear career path early on meant I was “doing it right.” What I’ve since realised is that exploration is not a lack of direction, it’s part of the process. Trying new roles, attending careers events, and speaking to different people and teachers helped me understand what genuinely interested me and what didn’t.

How has goal setting helped me?

Goal setting works best for me when it’s flexible and broken into small, realistic steps. Instead of focusing on one big outcome, I concentrate on actions I can take now, such as:

These small goals feel achievable and are easy to do, which significantly help build confidence and motivation over time.

Of course, not all goals work out and that can feel disappointing. I’ve had goals that changed once I explored different options or learned more about certain career paths. Rather than seeing this as failure, I now see it as valuable learning. Each experience helped me understand myself better and make more informed decisions to help me in my career journey.

To stay organised, I use simple tools like a digital to-do list and a notes app to reflect on my progress. UWE Careers resources, talks with my teachers and lecturers, and one-to-one guidance have also played a huge role in helping me explore opportunities that I might not have considered otherwise.

It’s important to remember that your goals do not have to match the people around you, and you certainly do not need a perfect plan. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but success is personal and looks different for everyone.

Be open to exploring. Set goals that suit where you are now, and allow them to change and grow as you do.

My career top tip

Author Student Communications | Posted on

by Rafaela

Reflection and self-awareness are skills that many people use every day without even realising it. They can be practised in every area of your life whether it be your studies, work experience, personal challenges or new opportunities. Reflection gives you the time and space to look at any situation, positive or negative, sit with it, break it down, and understand what you learnt. It helps you recognise how you handled things in the moment and how you might approach similar situations differently in the future.

As a final-year student at UWE, I’ve found I’ve naturally been reflecting on my time here before moving onto the next stage of my life, wherever that may be.

My time here has pushed me to develop skills both consciously and subconsciously, and it has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone in so many more ways than one. Reflecting is a habit I know I’ll carry forward because it strengthens communication, critical thinking and problem-solving. All qualities that employers value.

If you’re not sure where to begin with self-reflection, don’t panic! A simple structure I have learned during my degree that has helped me throughout university is asking myself three questions:

What? So what? Now what?

You might already be asking yourself these without even knowing it. Here is how each question can be broken down:

What? What happened? What did you do? What was the experience?

So What? What did it mean? What parts were easy or challenging? How did it make you feel emotionally? Did it match your expectations or differ from previous experiences? How did it impact you or those around you such as peers, colleagues and friends?

Now What? Moving forward, what would you do differently? What have you learnt? How will this shape your future decisions, actions or mindset?

Using these three questions can turn any moment you experience, from starting a new job, critical feedback or even a personal setback, into an opportunity for growth. Reflection isn’t about overthinking; it’s about pausing and allowing yourself time to recognise your strengths, understand your challenges and become more aware of how you want to develop in the future.

I have found since doing this that the more I practise, the more natural it becomes, and the more I have realised how valuable it is in every aspect of university, employment and beyond.

My career top tip

Author Student Communications | Posted on

by Seif

When I first moved to the UK as an international student, I arrived with big goals, and an even bigger list of people telling me, “It’ll be impossible to get work experience in your first year.”

After dozens of rejections from part-time jobs, it honestly felt true at times. But I kept my goal in mind: I wanted to secure an internship after first year, no matter how ambitious it sounded.

I applied to every opportunity I could find. Most of the time, the answer was no. But eventually, one “yes” changed everything and I landed an IT internship at the end of my first academic year.

That single experience opened the door to so many others, including becoming a Student Career Coach here at UWE and starting a Learning Experience Analyst internship with the School of Computing & Creative Technologies. None of this would have happened if I had given up early on.

Here are the biggest lessons I learned, which I hope will help anyone starting their career journey:

Build the right mindset
The first challenge isn’t the application. It’s your mindset. Don’t underestimate yourself and don’t let other people decide what is or isn’t possible for you. If you want something, go for it.

Experience is more than job titles
If you’re new and feel like you have no experience, think again. Projects, hackathons, volunteering, competitions and much more all count as experience so get involved! Volunteering especially is an underrated way to gain experience fast, develop real workplace skills and strengthen your CV.

Tailor every application
Treat your CV and cover letter like your personal branding. Tailor them to each role by referring to the job description. One resource that helps me massively is CareerSet, available for free through Career Toolkit, it checks how well your CV matches the role and gives detailed feedback.

Don’t fear rejections. Use it.
You might get rejected a lot. That’s normal. What matters is reflecting on what you can improve each time. Every application and interview is practice for the next one.

If you know your strengths, stay consistent, keep improving and opportunities will come. Believe in yourself, keep going and trust the process. You never know which application will be the life-changing one.

    How can you invest in your Future?

    Author Student Communications | Posted on

    Have you ever taken the time to think about the considerable investment you are making by choosing to study at university? We’re not just talking about the money (although we know that’s significant) – it’s also the time, energy and effort that you are putting into your degree.   

    We want you to focus on really maximising that investment, and make some choices which will help you get the most out of your time here at UWE. 

    Start planning and preparing for your future now, so you’re ready to hit the ground running after graduation. 

    It’s worth remembering that life as a UWE Bristol student gives you access to a huge range of support services and opportunities and it’s worth making the most of these. You’ve already paid for it, so take advantage of it!   

    • Careers and Enterprise – Make the most of our free support service. Your time at uni will fly by, and you want to be in the best possible position when you graduate.  
    • Start your Personalised Career Plan – Fill in a short questionnaire so you can receive tailored careers info, resources and events to help you start planning for your future. 
    • Look at LinkedIn courses – these are free for UWE Bristol students and are a great way of building your skills and enhancing your CV. 
    • Work experience and placements – Get first-hand experience to help you work out what career path you want to follow. 
    • Why not travel abroad? – Global experiences are a great way to expand your horizons, meet new people and develop skills you didn’t even know about. 
    • Use social media – Follow @UWECareers on Instagram to find out the latest updates on events, employer drop-ins and workshops. 
    • Innovation and enterprise – Thinking about starting your own business? Get advice and support to develop your enterprise skills. 
    • Volunteering – Use your talents and skills to give something back. 
    • Thinking about your CV? – Start thinking about your future by taking on roles and responsibilities which will not only help you develop and grow, but also look great on your CV. Looking to becoming a student rep, a student ambassador or joining the student consultation panel. 

    Hopefully all that info has given you something to think about. Remember, you only get out of something what you put in (it sounds like a cliche, but it’s so true).  

    You’ve made a huge investment to be here – make the most of it! 

    invest in your self
    invest in your studies

    My career top tip

    Author Student Communications | Posted on

    by Amina

    This year I am really looking forward to making the most of my third year at university. Securing my role as a student career coach has allowed me to widen my network within UWE and consider alternative career options that I otherwise would not have been aware of.

    Within this role, I have been able to connect with students and support them with their career goals, which has been rewarding. The opportunity to develop my own skills, while helping students to unlock their own potential, has inspired me to continue positively impacting students here at UWE.

    I have found it beneficial to work alongside my degree as I have been able to become more self-aware of my strengths and areas for improvement. Gaining work experience can be valuable as it allows you to cultivate a higher level of self-awareness that is essential for personal growth, career development, and academic success. You also develop transferable skills like communication, problem-solving, and time-management, which can enhance employability.

    Even if your work experience is not directly linked to your degree, having a part-time job will allow you to discover what you enjoy and don’t, boost confidence, and allow you to start building a professional network.

    If you are balancing a part-time job alongside your studies, it is important to plan effectively so that you can continue to succeed in your studies.

    Here are a few top tips to help you manage your workload and studies:

    1. Plan effectively – make sure to plan well ahead and create a schedule so that you stay on top of lectures, shifts, studying, and breaks.
    2. Set clear goals – setting targets for yourself can help to keep you accountable and focused on tasks.
    3. Know your limits – don’t take on more than you can manage and only accept shifts that you are able to work. If work is getting overwhelming, speak to your manager about reducing your hours or taking a break. Alternatively, if your university life is making you feel overwhelmed or stressed seek support.
    4. Take breaks – it’s important to prioritise your health and wellbeing so please remember to take breaks and do not push yourself too hard.

    Start of Year Guide

    Author Student Communications | Posted on

    Start of year can be a busy time as new arrivals get settled into life at UWE Bristol.

    This handy guide features some of the most commonly asked questions to support students.

    Registration

    How do I register?

    Go to the Registration tab in MYUWE. 

    How do I get a timetable? 

    Register in MYUWE. A timetable will show in MYUWE three working days later. Your Starting Block timetable will appear automatically.

    Where do I get my ID card from? 

    New students: If you’d uploaded a photo to MYUWE, your card will be ready two working days later from the campus you study at.  

    Returning students: You can purchase a replacement card via the Online Store.  

    My student loan hasn’t arrived. 

    Register in MYUWE and we will confirm your registration to the loan company who will release the funds to you at the start of term. 

    Life at Frenchay

    Which buses go to the city centre?  

    The Metrobus goes regularly from Frenchay to the centre – look out for M1 and M3. You need to buy your ticket before you board. 

    Can I park at Frenchay?  

    There’s limited parking at Frenchay. If you’re going to park here, you need a permit. Why not think about cycling instead? Check out this handy cycling map for guidance.

    I’m so confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room? 

    If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 2S706, then you’re looking for 2 – Level 2; S – S Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 706 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this campus map or you can also use this interactive map to find directions.

    If I have a question about something where can I go?  

    Staff at our InfoPoint will be happy to help you. You can find it in D Block – 1D11. 

    Life at City Campus

    Where do I catch a bus to town? 

    We recommend catching buses from Blackmoors Lane rather than anywhere else as they are much more frequent there. 

    How do I get between Bower Ashton, Arnolfini and Spike Island? 

    There’s no UWE parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island, so you might want to consider public transport, cycling or walking. Check out this handy cycling map for guidance. If you need help getting around Bower Ashton you can use this map or our interactive map.

    Can I park at Bower Ashton?   

    There’s very limited parking at Bower. If you’re going to park here, you need a permit. If the car park is full, you can try Ashton Court just up the hill (although that’s not free). There’s no UWE Bristol car parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island – you’ll need to use public car parks. 

    If I have a question about something where can I go? 

    Staff at our InfoPoints will be happy to help you. The Bower Ashton one is B Block, opposite the Art Shop. There’s also one on the fourth floor of the Arnolfini. 

    How can I print?  

    You can print ordinary things like A4 black and white via Pharos. You’ll be given £15 on your account at the start of the year. 

    If you want to print something more specialist, visit the Digital Print Bureau in 0C008. 

    Where can I use specialist software?  

    There are loads of opportunities for you to access specialist software, depending on what you need it for. This includes the library, and specialist computer suites in D Block, G Block and B block at Bower Ashton, as well as software at the Arnolfini and Spike Island. 

    Where can I buy art supplies?  

    Go wild in the Art Shop! You get an £80 materials allowance each year and you can use it at the Art Shop or the Digital Design Studio. 

    I’ve lost something – where might it be?  

    Everything makes its way to the Security office in F Block, check here first! Or email uwecard@uwe.ac.uk to find out if something is there. 

    Life at Glenside

    I’m so confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room? 

    If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 1F06, then you’re looking for 1 – Level 1; F – F Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 06 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this map or our interactive map. 

    How do I order my placement name badge? 

    New student: If you’ve completed your online registration, a placement name badge will be ordered for you and it’ll be issued at one of your teaching sessions before you start your simulation skills sessions. 

    Returning student: If you need a replacement placement name badge, email Infopoint@uwe.ac.uk and they’ll order one for you and email you when your badge is ready to collect. 

    How do I order my placement uniform? 

    If you’ve completed your online registration in MYUWE, you’ll be emailed details of how to order your placement uniform during induction week. If you’ve registered and haven’t received the email, contact the Information Point. 

    Are there showers and changing rooms at Glenside? 

    Yes! These can be found in 1E06 for males and 1E09 for females. You can ask Glenside Reception staff for a code to access the rooms – you’ll need to show your student ID card. 

    Are there student lockers at Glenside? 

    Lockers for short term use are available in the changing rooms in 1E06 and 1E09. To hire a locker for long term use, please email travel.plan@uwe.ac.uk to request one. 

    I’ve just started my course at Glenside – I applied for the NHS LSF Training Grant, when will I receive my first payment? 

    You’ll receive it in November, if: 

    • you started your course in September 
    • you’ve completed your student online registration.

    We’ll confirm your attendance to the NHSBSA in early November to release the funds to you. It can take up to 10 working days for payment to be processed once we’ve confirmed your attendance.  

    I have a timetabled teaching session in room 0SC014 at Glenside – where is it? 

    0SC014 is located at the back of the Glenside Student Centre (Student Union) building. It is the big brown wooden building located near car park 10. 

    How do I contact the Accommodation Office at Glenside? 

    Glenside Accommodation Service office is located near the Hub in 1H29. Reach them here. 

    How can I contact Occupational Health Service at Glenside?

    OH staff are based in 1G26, however they’re only on-site when attending booked appointments. 

    If I have a question about something, where can I go?

    Staff at our InfoPoint will be happy to help you. You can find it in Glenside Library in D Block. 

    Your Course

    I already feel like my course isn’t right for me? Can I switch? 

    Please don’t rush into a decision, it sometimes takes a while to settle in to university life. First, chat to your programme leader or your academic personal tutor and explain to them what you’re struggling with. They can offer support and guidance. Also, why not book an appointment with one of our Student Experience Coaches?

    How do I become a student rep? 

    The Students’ Union runs a student rep system, and ideally look for one student rep for every 25 students on your year of study on your course. They are usually chosen at the start of the academic year, so speak to your programme leader about this if you haven’t already received information about it. 

    Money and Finance

    Use the resources of the UWE Bristol Student Money Service. They have plenty of online information as well as an enquiry form to support and advise you.  There are additional resources on Money and Finance, including an enquiry form for tuition fee issues. 

    My student loan is delayed. What can I do? 

    Students can apply for a short-term loan and repay after 30 days with no interest added. 

    My rent is really high and I can’t afford it/I’m struggling with money. What can I do?  

    Firstly we advise students to apply for all the funding they are eligible for from Student  

    Finance and then apply for the Student Support Fund. Also, they could look for part-time work alongside their studies, and sign up to BlackBullion for free money education. 

    How do I find a job? 

    The Students’ Union JobShop advertise part time jobs both on and off campus.

    I’m an international student – is there any support for living/course costs?  

    Yes, the International Student Support Fund. You can also apply for the placement loan if you incur placement costs. 

    Accommodation and Housing

    Information regarding accommodation, including who to contact about UWE Accommodation issues, can be found on our website. The Students’ Union Advice Centre can also provide support regarding housing and accommodation issues.

    I’m struggling financially and can’t afford to pay my rent. What should I do?

    Firstly we advise students to apply for all the funding they are eligible for from Student  

    Finance and then apply for the Student Support Fund. Also, they could look for part-time work alongside their studies, and sign up to BlackBullion for free money education. 

    I haven’t managed to find anywhere to live. Who can help me? 

    Don’t panic – there’s lots of help out there to make sure you find somewhere to live. The Students’ Union can support you, so check out their advice pages. 

    I’m struggling with my housemates and I really want to move.

    In the first instance it’s probably best to see if you can resolve any difference you might have. Learning to live with other people can be tricky, and the SU has some great tips and advice that might help. If you really feel you need to move then contact the SU Advice Centre for support. 

    Wellbeing and Support

    I’m struggling with my course? I feel like I’m behind with the work and need some support. 

    If you’re struggling with any aspect of your course, contact your Academic Personal Tutor. You could also consider booking an appointment with one of our Student Experience Coaches to get one-to-one support. UWE also offers study support workshops and online help for a range of issues, including essay and report writing, referencing, and time management. 

    I’m an International student and I’m struggling to get settled in Bristol. 

    There are a range of targeted support services who can help you make the most of your time here in Bristol, as well as specific events for International students. You can also contact our Global Student Support Team. 

    I need some help for my mental health. Where can I get the support I need?

    If you’re struggling with your mental health and wellbeing then please don’t hesitate in reaching out for support. Download the Wisdom app, which offers live chat and video calls with counsellors. Also check out our Wellbeing Service webpage which includes a range of self-help resources and guidance. 

    I’m concerned about my drug or alcohol use at the moment, and really feel like I could do with some help. 

    UWE Bristol does not condone or condemn the use of drugs including alcohol; we are focused on providing students with the knowledge to be safe and feel supported. We operate a policy of harm reduction that prioritises the welfare and wellbeing of our students and wider community. We have a free Drugs and Alcohol Service if you would like support from a professional. 

    I’m looking for support following sexual assault? 

    We have an Anti-Sexual Violence Service here at UWE Bristol which provides a non-judgemental, inclusive and confidential safe space for you to seek support if you have experienced sexual trauma of any kind, even if you don’t want to report something.

    Disability Support

    I have a disability and feel nervous about how this will be managed during my time at university. 

    Please don’t be nervous, there is a whole range of support available to you. If you haven’t already done so, make sure you have disclosed your disability to the Disability Service. This Disability Support Guide covers everything you need to know. 

    I am neurodiverse, and would like to know what support is available to me.

    The Access and Learning Strategies team are specialist practitioners in neurodivergence and mental health. They offer a range of services including groups, workshops, drop-ins and one-to-one support, along with neurodiversity screening. 

    Library and Careers

    I want to start thinking about my future career, as well as looking for part-time work or internships while I study. Who can help with this?

    There are so many opportunities available here for you at UWE Bristol: 

    You can find part-time and term-time roles that work around your studies by visiting the JobShop. 

    InfoHub  is your first stop for careers advice, job listings, and help finding internships. 

    I want to start thinking about my career in the creative industries – how can I do this? 

    Learn how to talk about your creative skills and experience in a way employers understand. We offer regular sessions to explore freelancing, running your own business, building your CV, covering letters, and confidence. UWE Careers & Enterprise Padlet 

    Use our Showcase website to develop your online presence and portfolio. 

    Get freelancing experience and opportunities through our NewWave creative agency. Fill out this form to register your interest. 

    Join groups like Bristol Creative Industries for job alerts, networking, and events. 

    What are you up to after graduation?

    Author Student Communications | Posted on

    Zoe Tonks, International Business

    This June, I’ll be kicking off an exciting new chapter as an Operations Associate with Rowden Technologies, a fast-growing company specialising in mission-critical systems for challenging environments. With my degree in International Business, I’ll be working across the operations team, supporting the company’s growth and diversification with an initial focus on Supply Chain development. While I’m eager to dive into this hands-on experience, I’m also keeping the door open for further education down the line, with my long-term goal still focused on international trade and policy

    Manar Amasha, Biomedical Science

    As I wrap up my final year, I’m applying for master’s in research (MRes) programmes with hopes of doing a PhD in cancer and regenerative medicine. Being a Student Career Coach has really boosted my career development skills – it’s helped me navigate where and how to look for master’s courses and part-time jobs. I’ve also thrown myself into the university life, joining societies and even winning my first ever presentation award at Europe’s first conference supporting scientists from marginalised and underrepresented backgrounds, an opportunity I found through UWE!

    My advice? Be proactive, put yourself out there, use every resource available and don’t be afraid to ask questions – you never know where it might lead.

    Becca Chan, Mechanical Engineering

    After a jam-packed 4 years at UWE, I’m pleased to be graduating and starting a graduate scheme at an engineering company based in Bristol. I’m very grateful for the opportunities I’ve had at UWE to develop my skills from manufacturing in the workshop, Formula Student and my role as a Student Careers Coach and Student Rep. I greatly encourage current students to make the most of their University experience and get involved with anything and everything that’s on offer!”

    Mohamed Abdelsalam, Law

    While I haven’t secured a graduate role yet, I’ll be taking part in a month-long internship in Bali. I’ll be working closely with the local community to support small businesses, something that really aligns with my passion for giving back to underrepresented communities. This experience will also help me develop key transferable skills that are essential in a legal career, while giving me a much-needed break from academic life.

    How to harness AI to help with your next career steps

    Author Student Communications | Posted on

    by Careers and Enterprise

    We hear a lot from students and graduates about how tricky it is to know when and how to utilise AI in your career development.

    This guide will help you recognise where AI can add value and save time and where it’s best to stick with traditional methods!

    Use AI to:

    Get started

    Facing a blank page at the start of making an application, CV or cover letter can be daunting, so using AI to give you a basic structure and template is a good time saver and gets you off the mark.

    Edit and review

    Most employers use software to score applications/ CVs etc and they will pick up on spelling, grammar and typos which could result in an unsuccessful application. Using AI to check for spelling, punctuation and grammar errors is really helpful, it can also help you stick to word limits and add more impactful language.

    Assess suitability for a role

    AI can be great to quickly generate options – feed in information about your skills, qualifications, likes, dislikes, interests and values and see if it can provide some ideas on roles that would suit you. Remember it’s just working off algorithms and doesn’t know you personally, so don’t assume it’s got it right, but it’s a good way of generating ideas, then you can continue to hone it if it’s coming up with ideas that aren’t a good fit.

    Help prepare for interview

    From giving you a schedule of preparation, possible questions and tips on techniques, there are loads of ways AI can help you prepare for interviews. ·

    Perfect the STAR method

    If you haven’t heard of this method (also known as the STAR technique) then get on Google right now, as it’s a game changer for both applications and interviews. It’s basically a formula for giving good examples that score well in recruitment processes, but it can be tricky to master – write out a STAR example and ask AI to assess it, or if you’re new to STAR, ask it to help you understand how to utilise this very helpful technique!

    Research companies

    Company research is key in several areas of careers – from working out which companies you might want to work for, to including company information in cover letters and talking about your fit at interview. Some websites make it easier than others to look into a company, but AI can usually give you a good summary in seconds that will help you assess and demonstrate your fit with them.

    Don’t use AI

    To do it all

    As a graduate (and human being) your experiences, skills and attributes will be so much richer, more interesting and compelling than what AI will come up with. Applications/ cover letters etc created entirely by AI are unlikely to get you an interview or job, as it will be too generic, plus it’s easy for employers to spot where AI has been used.

    To cheat technical assessments

    Employers are already implementing software to detect use of AI in assessments, so you may get caught, but even if you don’t, getting a job that you can’t do is not a good outcome! Practice assessments and give them a real go yourself to reflect your true skill level.

    To get answers in an interview

    AI is great for interview prep, but using it in real-time to answer interview questions is not a good idea. At best, you won’t be engaging well with the interviewers if you’re looking at a screen and, as it’s pretty obvious if someone is doing this, you could well be eliminated from the process.

    With the assumption it’s right

    Although exceptionally clever and helpful, AI is in its infancy and isn’t right all the time!

    It basically just summarises a collection of data/ information from across the internet and not everything on the internet is accurate or creditable. Cross-reference information with reputable sources of information such as Career Toolkit and Prospects.

    Without thinking about your data

    AI platforms hold your data for a period of time and once information is out there, it’s hard to control or get back. Try not to include personal data within CVs/ application checks for this reason, or at least read the platform’s privacy and data handling statements to ensure you’re happy with them before including this information.

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