26 Mar 2025
Going to university is about more than just getting a degree. University is a chance to shape your career by building skills, gaining experience, and making connections that set you apart in the graduate job market and beyond. But how do you stand out as a graduate? How can you discover your strengths, interests and potential career paths? And what job-searching skills should you focus on building now? In today’s blog, we will answer these questions and show you how to make the most of your time at university to set yourself up for a successful career ahead.
Essential steps to take for building your future career
You have probably heard from your lecturers that university will go by quickly, so it is important to take advantage of every opportunity and start planning for life after graduation as early as possible. Between balancing assignments, projects, and research, making the most of a range of opportunities now can help you stand out and set you up for success as you plan your next steps. Here are some ideas and strategies you can take throughout your degree to build your career and stand out in the job market:
Gain valuable experience
Employers look for more than just a degree. Practical experience can set you apart in a competitive job market, whether that’s through employment, unpaid work, starting a business, personal projects or work shadowing.
Look for part-time work alongside your studies to develop transferable skills, websites like Save the Student can help you find opportunities. Volunteering is another great option, with many charities offering flexible roles, from one-off events to regular weekly commitments, check CharityJob or Reach Volunteering. Internships are also valuable, with paid placements available through Bright Network and free virtual internships on The Forage. If you are interested in entrepreneurship, consider starting your own business or gaining freelancing experience on platforms like Upwork or PeoplePerHour to gain resilience and showcase your ambition.
Develop key skills for your future
Think about the skills that will help you succeed in your career. These include transferable skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and job-specific skills such as customer service, marketing, or project management. Looking at job descriptions for roles that interest you can help you identify the skills you may need to develop and evidence when you start applying for future roles.
Alongside your studies, consider gaining new skills through free online courses and certifications on platforms like Free Course England, Coursera, or Udemy. You can also teach yourself by learning IT programs or watching YouTube tutorials.
Build a strong professional network
Building a strong network is becoming more important in today’s competitive job market, and it can start while you are still studying. Connect with classmates, attend networking and employer events, and take opportunities to speak with industry professionals to learn more about potential career paths. LinkedIn is a great tool for growing your network, and joining professional bodies in your chosen field can help you connect with industry experts and stay informed about opportunities. You can also look for a mentor to guide you in your career journey, offer advice, and share industry insights. Visit the Mentoring Club to explore mentorship opportunities.
You can build your network through your university by joining a student society related to your interests or career goals. Many societies offer guest speaker events, networking opportunities, and industry insights. Engaging with a professional network early can provide support, guidance, and connections that will benefit your career long after graduation.
Create a powerful personal brand
Your personal brand is how you present yourself to others, from how lecturers perceive you to how potential employers see you. Building a strong personal brand can benefit your career by positioning you as a knowledgeable and proactive professional in your field.
Throughout your studies, you can strengthen your brand by taking on extra responsibilities, getting involved in initiatives, and actively participating in student union activities. Online, LinkedIn allows you to showcase your achievements, share insights from your course, and even start blogs to highlight your expertise and interests. Developing your personal brand early can open doors to new opportunities and set you apart in your career.
Master job searching skills
Knowing how to present yourself professionally is an important skill that will help you throughout your career. This includes understanding the recruitment process, from writing an effective CV to crafting a cover letter that highlights your interest in the company. It is also important to understand the value of tailoring your applications to the role and learn how employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen candidates.
Take time to prepare for online and in-person interviews, assessment centres, and any tasks or psychometric tests that may be part of the hiring process. Developing these skills now will make job applications feel more manageable and improve your chances of success.
Putting these steps into action
Being proactive and taking steps throughout your studies can set you up for a successful career after graduation and beyond. Make the most of your university’s career service, as they offer valuable resources to help you develop key skills and gain experience that will make you stand out. Keep track of your achievements and the skills you build along the way, as this will make it much easier when it comes to writing your CV, preparing applications, and tackling interviews.
Every experience, no matter how small, helps you grow and brings you closer to your career goals. By staying engaged and making the most of available opportunities, you will be well-prepared to take the next step in your career with confidence.
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