After a whirlwind first term, Spring term is officially underway and with it comes a focus on making the most of your time at university. With a range of opportunities, events and activities to get involved in, this term is the perfect time to try new experiences and take advantage of what’s on offer outside of your academic course.

Volunteering in the local community, internships and part time work are all great ways to start building your future and be pro-active in improving your employability. YSIS placements, internships with local companies and York Award skills courses are just a few of the activities on offer during Spring term. Full details can be found on the Careers website  The Careers Timeline can help you with ideas of what to focus on each term (or even each week!)

We also have a number of careers events taking place this term, starting in Week 3 (21 January) with ‘Working in Education: careers with children and young people.’  This is a great chance for those considering a career in this area to network and speak to a range of professionals. Other events during Spring term include an Assessment Centre Activity Day taking place in Week 4 (29 January), aimed at preparing students for graduate scheme assessment centres, and a fantastic networking opportunity at Professional Connect:  Advertising, Marketing & PR; Public & Third Sectors; and Retail in Week 8 (25 February). Students can also use the online Employability Tutorial (on the VLE) to guide them through the process of choosing a career, from just gathering ideas to assisting with job applications. Check out all our events here and get some dates in your diary.

Developing your employability is an essential part of student life.  It’s never too early to start planning your career, with employers looking for students with more than just a degree. Taking part in a variety of opportunities won’t only help you to develop new skills and experiences to ensure you thrive in the workplace, you’ll also be setting yourself apart from the crowd early on. Make sure you get the most from your time at university and try something new this term. Come and talk to us in Careers if you need any information or advice