Career Zone Podcast

Personal responsibility is about acting with integrity, honesty and self-awareness – owning your actions and learning from your mistakes. In this week's episode, Rachel Haddy, Employability and Placements Adviser, highlights three key aspects of personal responsibility: accountability, following through on commitments and authenticity. Rachel shares how admitting mistakes, managing your workload honestly and owning both your strengths and weaknesses can empower you to take ownership of your performance and personal growth.   Useful Links: Importance of saying no podcast. (https://pod.fo/e/26d7a3)

We last looked at the Graduate Labour Market in December 2024 and a lot has changed since then. In this episode, Dawn Lees, Student Employability and Development Manager, looks at the current state of the graduate labour market, focusing on the relationship between politics and the economy.* Dawn shares insights on how the global situation has impacted the graduate labour market as well as sharing advice to help you succeed if you're looking for a graduate job. Links and Resources : If you would like help making career decisions or exploring your career/further study options, please contact the Career Zone to book a Guidance appointment. Public sector page (Is it currently social guidance and services?) How to research an employer page Book onto a CV/Application form advice session via Handshake Book onto a skill session via Handshake, topics include Problem Solving, Communication and Collaboration and Personal Resilience. Attend one of our Employer Events, book via Handshake. *Data mentioned in this podcast is from May 2025

In this week's episode, Andrea Hodges, Employment Schemes Manager, is joined by second year student Olivia Osborne, to discuss how you can develop your skills, gain experience and build your connections. Andrea and Olivia share their advice on how you can demonstrate the skills you have when applying for jobs. Andrea also highlights the schemes you can utilise at the University, whether you are looking for a placement, internship or graduate role. Although this episode focuses on the South West, the skills and experience discussed are relevant to all work experience opportunities. Useful Links: University of Exeter - Internships (https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/internships/) University of Exeter - Work Placements (https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/jobsandworkplacements/workplacements/) Book onto a CV/Application form session via Handshake. Book onto a skills sessions via Handshake. Listen to our Placements 101 podcast episodes.  Prioritising your wellbeing whilst in placement Being money smart

The second episode of Placements 101 focusses on money – how to manage your finances while on placement. Everyone's financial situation is different and how you manage money is a personal choice. In this episode Anya and Immy share their experiences and offer practical advice on how they handled their finances during their placements.    If you're unsure what you want to do with your third year, or need some extra support/guidance from students who have recently returned from a year out, then check out our new placements 101 mini-series. Join Anya and Immy, fourth year students as they share their experiences of placement life. Find more support on our work placement webpages: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/jobsandworkplacements/workplacements/ Explore wellbeing support for Streatham students: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/wellbeing/ Explore wellbeing support Penryn students:  https://fxplus.ac.uk/mental-health-and-wellbeing-support/

In this week's episode, Nicky Hutchinson, Employability and Career Consultant is joined by Scott James, Partner of Ward Williams Associates – a certified B Corp. Scott explains what it means to be a B Corp, how it has shaped Ward Williams as a business, and  the benefits of working for one. He also shares valuable insights on what prospective job applicants should know about B Corps when preparing for interviews.   Useful Links: Ward Williams Website: https://wardwilliams.uk/ The BCorp Directory: https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/ BCorporation website home page: https://bcorporation.uk/ Green Consultants: (ex.ac.uk/greenconsultants) Scott James, Partner, Ward Williams Associates LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottjamesprojects/

If you're unsure what you want to do with your third year, or need some extra support/guidance from students who have recently returned from a year out, then check out our new placements 101 mini-series. Join Anya and Immy, fourth year students as they share their experiences of placement life. The first episode of Placements 101 focuses on prioritising wellbeing whilst on placement - a really important topic. Life abroad or working can be a huge shift from student life and many struggle with the initial adjustment period. Take reassurance in the fact that you are not alone and the majority are feeling the same way. Anya and Immy discuss what they did whilst on placement and what they would appreciate knowing in hindsight with regards to wellbeing and mental health. Useful Links: Find more support on our work placement webpages: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/jobsandworkplacements/workplacements/ Explore wellbeing support for Streatham students: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/wellbeing/ Explore wellbeing support Penryn students:  https://fxplus.ac.uk/mental-health-and-wellbeing-support/

Helen Hicks, Programme Officer, talks with Bella and Raishal, students who have completed Green Consultants. Bella and Raishal explain what the Green Consultants programme is and share the skills and benefits they gained from completing the programme.   Useful Links:  Green Consultants: (ex.ac.uk/GreenConsultants) Find out more and start the training now. Book onto skill sessions via Handshake. 

Helen Hicks, Programme Officer at the University of Exeter, introduces the Aspiring Teachers programme and the range of opportunities available to you. Helen is joined by Leanne Galloway, an Early Years Adviser and Ofsted Inspector, who shares her top 5 skills that you need if you are thinking about a career in teaching. Helen also discusses how you can go about gaining teaching experience to work out where your passion lies. Useful Links Start the training now on the Aspiring Teachers webpage. (ex.ac.uk/aspiringteachers) Find out more about the Learning for Teaching module. (https://education.exeter.ac.uk/study/teachingexperience/) Book onto a skills session via Handshake

Current fourth year students, Immy and Anya, share their experiences of working within the Placements Team in their role as Student Campus Partner (SCP), a paid internship with the University of Exeter. They discuss how they secured their roles, what they enjoy most about the position, and the benefits it offers students. SCP roles are available in other sections of the Career Zone and across the university.   The Student Campus Partnership (SCP) is exclusively for Exeter UK and international students who want to secure paid work on campus. The scheme promotes paid internships that are available across the university's campuses in Exeter and Penryn.   Useful Links: Find out more about Student Campus Partner (SCP) roles and sign up to the Student Internship Bulletin:  https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/internships/scp/ Find out more about Student Business Parnter (SBP) roles and sign up to the Student Internship Bulletin:  View current vacancies on  Handshake by searching for SCP or SBP in the job search. Sign up to a CV or Application form session via Handshake.

The decision to change or leave your course will be something only a handful of students consider, but for those in their first year this is a decision that can weigh heavily on you. If you are not enjoying your studies or feeling that university currently is not for you then continue listening. In this episode we hear Careers Consultants Sarah Blunt and Fiona Hartley talking about the options and help available for those who find themselves uncertain if their degree is for them. We also hear from James a Finalist on the BA Film Studies course. James shares his own experience of the decision to switch both subject choice and institution before finally coming to Exeter. We explore how he felt about making the decision and what influenced his next steps before talking about the support he received and sharing his own advice and tips for anyone finding themselves in a similar situation. For more information and advice about the options you have and signposted support  listen to podcast 1 or read our dedicated Career Zone webpages Thinking of Leaving or Changing Course | Career Zone | University of Exeter ‘ Other useful articles on this topic Changing or leaving your course | Prospects.ac.uk also addresses the FAQs asked by students on this topic. Further Support from Exeter University Students' Union – Guild or SU: Offer advice and support.  For more information about the support available: Changes to your studies - Student Life Knowledgebase (exeterguild.com) Interruption - Student Life Knowledgebase (exeterguild.com) Exeter - Advice Service (exeterguild.com) Penryn - Advice (thesu.org.uk)

This week Zuzanna Radecka, Partnerships and Global Employability Officer, is joined by students Hannah and Josh, to discuss their experience of taking part in the EAIE Conference. Hannah and Josh share how they have applied the skills they developed from their Global Leaders Experience to real life situations, how their experience has influenced their career aspirations and provide advice to students considering applying for a Global Leaders Experience. The Global Leaders Experience is a unique opportunity to develop your intercultural skills as part of a short, outbound mobility experience. Typically a week in duration and covering themes such as sustainability, human rights and digital heritage, you will travel to a significant city or location outside of the UK and be immersed in the local environment, presented with real-world challenges and work closely with a diverse range of other students and professionals.

In this week's podcast, we consider commercial awareness in your job search and future career: what is it, why employers value it and how it can benefit you. Rachel Sloan, Employability and Career Consultant, explores how you can improve yours and how your commercial awareness will be assessed when you are applying for jobs.  Useful Links: Explore sectors and opportunities on the Career Zone website.  Use the University Library Guides to find company information.  Access Industry Reports on My Career Zone Digital.  Find out more about the range of employability schemes available to Exeter students.  Forage provides access to virtual work experience programmes with some of the world's leading companies.  For more advice on finding internships and work experience and finding a part time job, sign up for an advice session on Handshake.  Use Glassdoor to discover what an employer is really like through reviews and ratings from people who have worked for them.  The Student Room has forums where students discuss work in different industries and sectors.  Use you Exeter email address to register and explore Employer Job Guides on Graduates First.  This episode was written by Melissa Benson and recorded by Rachel Sloan.

In this episode Tess Read, Employability and Career Consultant, talks to undergraduate Molly Miles, on her experience of getting a placement and a training contract. Molly shares her experience of how she found a placement just by speculative asking, how much she enjoyed her year, and how it led to that prized goal - a fully funded training contract. In addition to this episode you can find more information to help with career planning here; University of Exeter Career Zone , My Career Zone Digital , Law and legal services: Information for Law and Non-Law Students , Employability for Law Students and The Law School.   Other links: If you're a current Exeter student, you can book onto a Time and Stress Management session via Handshake. 

Kate Foster, Employability and Career Consultant, is joined by recent alumni Evie to discuss upReach, a social mobility charity that partners with the Career Zone to support students in receipt of the Access to Exeter bursary to develop their employability. With 28% of current students receiving a bursary, Evie shares how she found out about upReach, the activities she got involved with and the advice she would give to her first year self. You can find out more about upReach and whether you are eligible for support on the upReach website.

In this week's episode Nicky Hutchinson, Employability and Career Consultant, focuses on the importance of having a master CV. Nicky explains what they are, why it is good practice to keep one and explores the kind of experiences you can include in yours.   Useful Links: Sign up and complete The Exeter Award Book onto a skill session via Handshake Access the online training for Green Consultants Find out more about Professional Pathways Check out out Help with CVs webpage Listen to our CV of Failure  episode.

You've been invited to a job interview, but how can you prepare yourself? In this week's episode, Leanne Bisatt, Employability and Placements Adviser, focus on how you can prepare for answering interview questions. Leanne shares how to answer ‘tell us about yourself' question and how you can structure your examples using the S.T.A.R technique (situation, task, action and result). Useful links: Help with…interviews Help with...researching sectors and employers Book onto an Interview Techniques session on Handshake Find out more about reasonable adjustments on our Supporting Equality and Diversity webpage. Contact the Career Zone to book a 1-1 appointment. Register for the Exeter Award

In this week's podcast, Rachel Sloan, Employability and Career Consultant, is joined by George Wade, Co-Founder of Zevero, a platform revolutionising carbon management. George shares his inspiring journey, from studying Geography at university to gaining hands-on experience at a startup, and finally, co-founding his own company. George discusses the benefits of working for a startup and shares his top tips on how to apply for a role at a startup and make your application stand out. George also provides an honest look at the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur. STR - Sales Training Representative  Useful Links: Find out more about Zevero on the Zevero website and LinkedIn Page George Wade LinkedIn page You can book onto a Guidance appointment by contacting the Career Zone.  Student Startups Access to Internships Career Development for Sustainability CV sessions - Book via Handshake Welcome to the Jungle - Formally Otta Job Board

We last looked at the Graduate Labour Market in October 2023, but what has changed since then? In this episode, Rachel Sloan, Employability and Careers Consultant, looks at the current state of the graduate labour market and the sectors which are expanding.* Links and Resources : If you would like help making career decisions or exploring your career/further study options, please contact the Career Zone to book a Guidance appointment. Book onto a CV/Application form advice session via Handshake Book onto a skill session via Handshake, topics include Problem Solving, Communication and Collaboration and Personal Resilience. Develop your sustainability skills with Green Consultants  (ex.ac.uk/greenconsultants) Attend one of our Employer Events *Data mentioned in this podcast is from December 2024 Devised by Dawn Lees and recorded by Rachel Sloan

In our Law mini-series podcast, our Law Employability and Careers Consultants; Rachel, Tess and Sunny, talk to experienced professionals from both legal and non-legal sectors to hear their career experiences and advice. In this episode Sunny Lalli, Employability and Career Consultant, talks to Jon Lindley, Business Affairs at Apple+  In this conversation Jon and Sunny explore a theme of alternative careers to law, of how an academic law qualification can be harnessed in non-law graduate work, examine the transferability of skills from studying law, and how to harness the power of planned happenstance to secure a meaningful career.  Further resources touched upon in the episode: Career Zone Podcast episode on the Power of Mentoring: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7eIRTaCzor6ZDugKsi3jnf?si=315cde2d0a974991&nd=1&dlsi=fc86fc1de2674b89 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-power-of-mentoring/id1518561665?i=1000603422439 University of Exeter Career Zone sector page on law: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/sector/law4nonlaw/ University of Exeter Career Zone sector page on media, publishing and journalism: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/sector/mediapublishingandjournalism/ University of Exeter Help with Networking: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/helpwith/helpwithnetworking/

In our Law mini-series podcast, our Law Employability and Careers Consultants; Rachel, Tess and Sunny, talk to experienced professionals from both legal and non-legal sectors to hear their career experiences and advice. In this episode Rachel talks to Zoe Bushby, Future Pupil Barrister.  Zoe graduated from the University of Exeter in 2023 with a first class LLB Law degree, she then completed her bar training at BPP Law School in Bristol and has just started working as a Future Pupil Barrister for Magdalen Chambers, here in Exeter. Hear about Zoe's experiences of studying her bar course and an insight into the factors to consider when deciding which one to choose, including different types of courses, funding opportunities and which provider to choose. In addition to this episode you can find more information to help with career planning here; University of Exeter Career Zone , My Career Zone Digital , Law and legal services: Information for Law and Non-Law Students , Employability for Law Students and The Law School.

To celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week Rachel Sloan is joined by Jasmine Hammond, Student Startups Manager to discuss the support available to students interested in exploring entrepreneurship. Jasmine shares how you can get involved whether you have an idea you want to explore or whether you just want to find out more about entrepreneurship and social enterprise. Jasmine and Rachel share some of their favourite ideas that have come from students and the Startup Team and discuss some of the important skills you can develop.   Useful Links: Contact the Career Zone to book an Entrepreneurship guidance appointment with a Career Consultant Attend an Idea Generation workshop and find out more about the Pre-Incubator programme on the Student Startups webpages. Find out more on our Global Entrepreneurship Week webpage. Whether you are taking an entrepreneurship module or are simply wishing to enhance your employability, the Exeter Award Entrepreneurship Theme offers you a way to get University recognition for your extra and co-curricular entrepreneurship activities. Enactus (https://my.exeterguild.com/groups/GYXRW/enactus)  

In this week's episode, Leanne Bisatt, Employability and Placements Adviser, talks about the things you need to be aware of if your thinking of using AI, such as Chat GPT, in your job applications. Leanne shares what employers think, as well as how to use AI effectively. Useful links: Help with Application Forms: (http://ex.ac.uk/dUB) Help with Using AI: (http://ex.ac.uk/dUC) Demonstrating your passion to employers podcast

In our Law mini-series podcast, our Law Employability and Careers Consultants; Rachel, Tess and Sunny, talk to experienced professionals from both legal and non-legal sectors to hear their career experiences and advice. In this episode Sunny Lalli, Employability and Career Consultant, talks to Maria Smirnova, a Human Rights Officer at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Maria shares insights into her journey, reflecting on how an internship with the UN propelled her career, the differentiation between international public law and international private business law and the credentials required to work in this practice area. Maria and Sunny examine strategies such an internships and employability schemes to enable progression into this exciting practice area of law. In addition to this episode you can find more information to help with career planning here; University of Exeter Career Zone , My Career Zone Digital , Law and legal services: Information for Law and Non-Law Students , Employability for Law Students and The Law School.   Further resources touched upon in the episode: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/employability-schemes/globalemployability/ University of Exeter sector page on law: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/sector/law4nonlaw/ University of Exeter sector page on politics and government: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/sector/politicsgovernment/ General info about careers in the UN, including internships, volunteering, young professionals programme: https://careers.un.org/home?language=en Portal to apply for UN jobs and internships: https://inspira.un.org/

In our Law mini-series podcast, our Law Employability and Careers Consultants; Rachel, Tess and Sunny, talk to experienced professionals from both legal and non-legal sectors to hear their career experiences and advice.   In this episode Tess Read, Employability and Career Consultant, talks to Ben Gardiner.  Recent graduate Ben Gardner shares his remarkable personal journey to successfully getting a much prized graduate role at Reed Smith in London.  Ben describes how he leveraged his work experience in non legal sectors to successfully appeal to employers, and how he achieves significant job satisfaction in his responsible business role.   In addition to this episode you can find more information to help with career planning here; University of Exeter Career Zone , My Career Zone Digital , Law and legal services: Information for Law and Non-Law Students , Employability for Law Students and The Law School.  

In our Law mini-series podcast, our Law Employability and Careers Consultants; Rachel, Tess and Sunny, talk to experienced professionals from both legal and non-legal sectors to hear their career experiences and advice.   In this episode Tess Read, Employability and Career Consultant, talks to Natasha Bellinger.  A fascinating insight into the life and work of one of Exeter's leading barristers. Natasha Bellinger, joint Head of Magdalen Chambers. Natasha shares with Tess what drives her to run Exeter University Community Law Clinic and her top tips for success as a barrister.   In addition to this episode you can find more information to help with career planning here; University of Exeter Career Zone , My Career Zone Digital , Law and legal services: Information for Law and Non-Law Students , Employability for Law Students and The Law School.  

In this week's episode, Sarah Blunt, Employability and Careers Consultant talks with alumna Jen Stoneman, People (HR) Business Partner at Mencap, a UK-based charity that supports people with learning disabilities. Jen shares her journey from studying Politics and German to forging a successful career in the charity sector and reveals what she loves (and what she finds challenging) about her job. Throughout the episode, Jen offers invaluable insights into what it's truly like to work in the charity sector and highlights the diverse opportunities available for those looking to make a difference. Useful links: Explore your career options in the Charity Sector – include links to vacancy websites including CharityJob Career Zone's Pathways to Charity and Development programme – exclusive programme offering employer-led training and a paid internship Nightline - a confidential listening and information service run by students for students at the University of Exeter The GROW Model of Coaching and Mentoring

In our Law mini-series podcast, our Law Employability and Careers Consultants; Rachel, Tess and Sunny, talk to experienced professionals from both legal and non-legal sectors to hear their career experiences and advice.   In this episode Tess Read, Employability and Career Consultant, talks to Susan Starr.  A must-listen to podcast for every budding solicitor – SQE expert Susan Starr from the University of Law attached to Exeter University sets out all the steps involved in successfully passing SQE 1 and 2. She discusses the different options for fee structures* and full or part time completion. In addition to this episode you can find more information to help with career planning here; University of Exeter Career Zone , My Career Zone Digital , Law and legal services: Information for Law and Non-Law Students , Employability for Law Students and The Law School.     * Fees correct at the time of recording. Visit the Ulaw and SRA website for up to date fees.

In this week's episode, Rachel Sloan, Employability and Careers Consultant is joined by Rory a Student Programme Assistant to discuss how attending Create Your Future can help you with your career decisions. Rachel and Rory explore what you can expect at a Create Your Future session and how it can help you to get the most out of your time at university. Rory also shares how Create Your Future has helped to influence his career decisions.   Useful Links: Create Your Future Exeter Award Book onto an advice or skill session on Handshake

The decision to change or leave your course will be something only a handful of students consider, but for those in their first year this is a decision that can weigh heavily on you. If you are not enjoying your studies or feeling that university currently is not for you then continue listening. In this episode we hear Careers Consultants Sarah Blunt and Fiona Hartley talking about the options and help available for those who find themselves uncertain if their degree is for them. We also hear from James a Finalist on the BA Film Studies course. James shares his own experience of the decision to switch both subject choice and institution before finally coming to Exeter. We explore how he felt about making the decision and what influenced his next steps before talking about the support he received and sharing his own advice and tips for anyone finding themselves in a similar situation. For more information and advice about the options you have and signposted support  listen to podcast 1 or read our dedicated Career Zone webpages Thinking of Leaving or Changing Course | Career Zone | University of Exeter ‘ Other useful articles on this topic Changing or leaving your course | Prospects.ac.uk also addresses the FAQs asked by students on this topic. Further Support from Exeter University Students' Union – Guild or SU: Offer advice and support.  For more information about the support available: Changes to your studies - Student Life Knowledgebase (exeterguild.com) Interruption - Student Life Knowledgebase (exeterguild.com) Exeter - Advice Service (exeterguild.com) Penryn - Advice (thesu.org.uk)  Transcript of the podcast: Word | PDF

In this episode of the Career Zone podcast, Rachel Haddy, Employability and Placements Adviser, explores how you can find part-time jobs and shares her top tips to boost your applications. Rachel discusses where to search for roles both on and off campus, exploring sectors like hospitality and retail, and highlights opportunities through the university's Handshake platform. Plus, Rachel provides insights on how to balance work with your academic schedule, visa considerations for international students, and how to tailor your applications to stand out. Whether you're looking to earn extra income or gain valuable experience, this episode is packed with practical advice for your job search. This episode was written by Jen Hardwick and Rachel Haddy and was recorded by Rachel Haddy.   Links: Streatham/St Luke's- For paid job roles working at bars, cafes and shops on campus, students can express their interest by completing this form. Penryn- For casual jobs on campus at Penryn, you can check the FX Plus website for the latest vacancies.  You can also approach the outlets at Penryn in person. Find out more about Student Campus Partnership roles Find out more about Student Business Partnership roles here. Check out the support available from the Student Startups Team here. For international students, see advice about working in the UK here and contact the International Student Support team if you need further advice and guidance. You can book onto skills and advice sessions, including ‘Creating a Successful CV' and ‘Finding a Part-Time Job' via Handshake here. You can contact the Career Zone directly by using the Live Chat on this webpage. Transcript: Finding a part time job transcript - PDF version Finding a part time job transcript - Word version  

In this week's episode Rachel Sloan, Employability and Career Consultant explores the concept of a CV of Failure. Employers will often ask you about the times when you have ‘failed' in job interviews. They are not really interested in your failure, but they do want to see how you responded to it. Rachel discusses how developing a CV of Failure can help you prepare for interviews and how to best answer this question. Links: CV writing resources https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/helpwith/helpwithcvscoverlettersandapplications/ How to…webpage https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/helpwith/ References: Iske, P. L., & Bovelander, M. (2019). Institute of brilliant failures: make room to experiment, innovate, and learn. (No Title). Stefan, M. A CV of failures. Nature 468, 467 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1038/nj7322-467a   This episode was devised and written by Dawn Lees and recorded by Rachel Sloan.

In this episode, Rachel Sloan, Employability and Career Consultant, explores career management skills and how they can help you to manage your career throughout your life. Rachel discusses the different types of skills and attributes you need to manage your career including  decision making, adaptability and resilience. Links and resources: Build your self-awareness with the Profiling for Success assessments. Book onto a skill session via Handshake. Topics include negotiation skills  and networking. Listen to our podcasts on Spotify and iTunes: Decide: How do I choose a career? iTunes / Spotify Plan: I know what I want to do, but how do I get there? iTunes / Spotify Compete: How to succeed in getting a job iTunes / Spotify Should you do something you are passionate about or something you are good at? iTunes / Spotify This episode was written by Dawn Lees and recorded by Rachel Sloan.

In this episode, Rachel Sloan, Employability and Career Consultant, discusses the importance of continuous development and lifelong learning in the workplace. Rachel shares how you can cultivate a mindset of lifelong learning and how this can help you to develop your confidence and positively impact your ability to take on new challenges. Useful Links:  Alumni can access Career Zone support for three years after you leave and you can access some of our online support forever. https://www.exeter.ac.uk/alumnisupporters/benefits/careerssupport/ Listen to our podcast on ‘What is CPD (Continued professional Development)? On Spotify and iTunes Whether you're exploring options, planning your next steps or actively applying for opportunities, listen to our Get Ready to Graduate Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4TO6M7p79NHeq9Tk4Q4UtV?si=286e0934abf74b61  

In this week's episode, Rachel Sloan, Employability and Career Consultant, focuses on collaboration, a skill many employers want in their recruits. Rachel will explore the nuances between teamwork and collaboration, why having this skill is important for employers and how you can showcase your collaborative skills on your CV. Useful links: Grand Challenges (www.exeter.ac.uk/grandchallenges)   Green Consultants (www.exeter.ac.uk/greenconsultants)   Exeter Leaders Award (www.ex.ac.uk/exeterleadersaward) This podcast was written by Dawn Lees, utilising input from ChatGPT and recorded by Rachel Sloan.

Asking for help can feel daunting, but it's a huge strength that shows confidence and a commitment to progress. In this episode Rachel Haddy, Employability and Placements Adviser, explores how to ask for help in the workplace effectively, from identifying what you need to choosing the right person and timing.   Links: Book onto a skill session such as Problem Solving or Persuading, Influencing and Negotiation via Handshake  Listen to our episode on Transitioning from study into a first role. Listen on Spotify and iTunes To support your transition from university into employment or further study, visit our Get Ready to Graduate webpage Get ready to graduate with our Spotify playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4TO6M7p79NHeq9Tk4Q4UtV?si=c76faef068b44922 

In this episode, Bryanna, an Employability and Placements Adviser speaks to Charlotte who is a current fourth year Modern Languages student studying French and Spanish, about why working abroad can be a great option. Charlotte spent last year teaching English in France to secondary school students, and also spent some extra time in Spain Au Pairing. Bryanna and Charlotte will be discussing the topic of working abroad to understand a little more about the benefits of it and why others might want to consider working abroad. 

In this episode of the Career Zone podcast, Mel Nearchou from Student Employability and Academic Success, introduces Student Circus, a valuable resource for international students at the University of Exeter. With insights from Tripti Maheshwari, Co-Founder of Student Circus, and Aryan Jain, a Student Circus ambassador, discover how this platform can help you navigate job-hunting in the UK. Learn top tips for using Student Circus and how to connect with ambassadors for further assistance.   Links: For current students: https://exeter.studentcircus.com/login For alumni: https://exeter.studentcircus.com/alumni-student-registration/WHZQYnp1cEhtRC9kMjB6OWl5SHBaZz09 Ambassador application : https://exeter.joinhandshake.co.uk/edu/jobs/119893 Aryan Jain's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aryanjain16/

In this week's episode Luke Graham, Deputy of Secondary Education at the School of Education, is joined by Simon Holmes, Assistant Headteacher and Head of Sixth Form at Purbeck School, to discuss what ECTs can expect when applying for a role. Simon shares what the recruitment process looks like, what they are looking for in candidates and they share their top tips. Acronyms and Links ECT - Early Career Teacher ITT - Initial Teacher Training TES, formally known as Times Education Supplement If you're thinking of a career in teaching you can find more resources and opportunities on the Aspiring Teachers website

In this week's episode, Rachel Sloan, Employability and Career Consultant, looks at how the transition away from fossil fuels will affect careers in the energy industry moving forward. As the world commits to transition away from its fossil fuel habit towards cleaner and more sustainable options, what jobs and opportunities will become available and what does this mean for the oil industry?   Useful Links: Student Startups www.exeter.ac.uk/studentstartups.  https://www.energy-uk.org.uk/careers/young-energy-professionals/ Grand Challenges (exeter.ac.uk/students/grandchallenges) Create Your Future (exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/employability-schemes/createyourfuture) Green Consultants  (exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/employability-schemes/greenconsultants) Sector webpages – Energy & Natural Resources

In this week's episode, Employability and Career Consultants, Nicky Hutchinson and Sunny Lalli talk with Chloe Bayliss, Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator at Cornish Lithium PLC about transitioning from full-time study into the work world.  Chloe shares her strategies and tips on networking and mentoring which helped her secure her first professional opportunity which is based within a small to medium sized enterprise (SME), the benefits of which will be covered in greater detail in a subsequent episode.   Further links:  Book onto a Networking Essentials and other personal development sessions via Handshake: https://exeter.joinhandshake.co.uk/edu/events?page=1&per_page=25&sort_direction=desc&sort_column=default&status%5B%5D=approved&added_institution_labels%5B%5D=35213 My Career Zone Digital e-learning course on starting a new job: https://mycareerzone.careercentre.me/u/1hrh0dja University of Exeter Career Zone blog article on the craft of networking: https://sites.exeter.ac.uk/careerzone/navigating-the-networking-jungle-essential-tips-for-students-and-graduates/ Cornish Lithium: https://cornishlithium.com/contact-details/careers/ Bright Network guidance on starting a new job: https://www.brightnetwork.co.uk/graduate-career-advice/world-of-work/

In this week's episode Olivia, a Student Programme Assistant, is joined by students who completed the Social Inequality Challenge in 2023. Ellen and Maya discuss their project that involved creating an informative and accessible booklet and campaign regarding safety in Exeter in order to help new students feel more confident and safe at university. They share their experiences of completing Grand Challenges, their motivations for joining and the skills they developed throughout the week.   Grand Challenges is a project week in which you work in interdisciplinary groups with other like-minded students to design innovative solutions to real world challenges. Top academics and invited speakers share their views and help you apply your skills and knowledge to a real-life problem. It's open to all students and sign up for Grand Challenges 2024 is now open! Sign ups close on 28 March 2024. Sign up for Grand Challenges or find out more on the Grand Challenges webpage.

As part of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, Kate Foster, Employability and Career Consultant, is joined by Sharon Cant, Recruitment Marketing Specialist at Auticon, to discuss neurodiversity in the workplace. Sharon shares her advice on disclosing in the recruitment process as well as the accommodations you can ask for. Sharon also shares her advice on finding a supportive employer. Useful Links: Neurodiversity pages on the Career Zone website: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/equality/neurodiversity/ University of Exeter Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2024  Auticon - auticon UK careers EmployAbility (employ-ability.org.uk): Employability is an organisation that helps disabled and dyslexic people with the transition from education to employment.  Evenbreak | Accessible job search site for disabled people: Evenbreak is a social enterprise that supports disabled people to find employment.  Enna: Enna offer support for neurodivergent people to find employment including a jobs board for roles at neuroinclusive employers.  Diversita: A recruitment agency that assists neurodiverse job seekers and works with organisations to hire neurodiverse applicants.  Exceptional Individuals: Another platform for neurodivergent job seekers where they offer support and provide a jobs board.  Leonard Cheshire Change 100 Internship Programme: A flagship programme of paid summer work placements, professional development and mentoring. It aims to remove barriers experienced by disabled people in the workplace, to allow them to achieve their potential.  SourceAbled by Rangam: a career portal and guidance for disabled, autistic and neurodivergent people MyPlusStudents Club: support disabled students and graduates into employment  

In this week's episode Christiana, Programme Assistant, is joined by students Ben, Lauren, Sam and Abbi who completed the Mental Health Challenge in 2023. Ben, Lauren and Sam discuss their project that involved creating an e-book aimed at parents of pre-teens/teens on navigating social media consumption.  Olivia, a Student Programme Assistant, is joined by Julia, Indira, Ronia and Lorenzo to discuss their experiences of working on a proposal for an accessibility widget on the iExeter app.     Both groups discuss their experiences of completing Grand Challenges, their motivations for joining and the skills they developed throughout the week.  Grand Challenges is a project week in which you work in interdisciplinary groups with other like-minded students to design innovative solutions to real world challenges. Top academics and invited speakers share their views and help you apply your skills and knowledge to a real-life problem. It's open to all students and sign up for Grand Challenges 2024 is now open! Sign up for Grand Challenges or find out more on the Grand Challenges webpage.  

In this episode, Dave Gyll-Murray, Employability and Placement Adviser is joined by University of Exeter alumna Amy Horn-Norris Bradbury, Director of Spalding Associates, an environmental consultancy based in Truro. Dave and Amy discuss career pathways, getting work experience, and some valuable skills that are sought after employers in the sector. Useful Links: Environment and conservation sector pages: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/sector/environmentandconservation/  Work Placements: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/jobsandworkplacements/workplacements/  Green Consultants: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/employability-schemes/greenconsultants/ 

In this week's episode Kate Foster, Employability and Career Consultant, is joined by Lena Worwood, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Project Support Officer at the University of Exeter. Lena and Kate explore careers from the perspective of finding a supportive employer, navigating the recruitment process and the support available in the workplace.   Links and resources: Information and advice about your rights and help with finding LGBTA+ friendly employers and jobs - https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/equality/sexualorientation/ LGBTQ+ Staff Network at the University of Exeter https://www.exeter.ac.uk/departments/inclusion/groups/networks/lgbtq+staff/ Exeter Trans and Non-binary Café - https://www.exeter.ac.uk/departments/inclusion/groups/networks/transcafe/ Gendered Intelligence - https://genderedintelligence.co.uk/ Stonewall - https://www.stonewall.org.uk/ Intercom Trust, Devon - https://www.intercomtrust.org.uk/ Proud2Be, Totnes - https://www.proud2be.org.uk/ Not alone, Plymouth - https://www.notaloneplymouth.co.uk/ LGBT Switchboard - https://switchboard.lgbt/ 

In this week's episode, Nicky Hutchinson, Employability and Career Consultant, shares a simple framework for writing application forms that answers the questions that are on employers' minds when they are assessing candidates for a job.   Useful Links You can find more support on our Help with applications pages. https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/helpwith/helpwithcvscoverlettersandapplications/ Book onto an Effective Application Form session via Handshake Book an appointment with the Career Zone to have your CV checked. https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/about/contactus/

In this week's episode Rebecca, a Student Programme Assistant, is joined by students Savi, Marco and Anushka who took part in the Climate and Environment Emergency Grand Challenges 2023.  For their project, they developed a student organisation, the Student Sustainability Board, that provides a platform to address sustainability issues and promote positive initiatives.  They share their experiences of completing Grand Challenges, their motivations for joining and the skills they developed throughout the week.   You can find out more about the Student Sustainability Board by following them on Instagram @ExeStudentSustainabilityBoard   Grand Challenges is a project week in which you work in interdisciplinary groups with other like-minded students to design innovative solutions to real world challenges. Top academics and invited speakers share their views and help you apply your skills and knowledge to a real-life problem. It's open to all students and sign up for Grand Challenges 2024 is now open! Sign up for Grand Challenges or find out more on the Grand Challenges webpage.  

In this episode Helen Hicks, Programme Officer, is joined by students Pooja, Octavia and Bryony to talk about their experiences of completing a Green Consultants internships. Pooja, Octavia and Bryony share how they overcame feeling nervous and intimidated by the thought of their internship to enjoying their experience and recommending it to other students. They share what their internships involved, the skills they have developed and how completing a Green Consultants internship has helped them when applying for jobs.   Green Consultants is an award winning programme designed to provide students with additional skills and experience required to work in the highly competitive environmental and sustainability sector. You can find out more about Green Consultant and access the training here.   

In this week's episode Olivia, a Student Programme Assistant, is joined by students Hannah and Sophie who took part in the Future Food Grand Challenges 2023. Their project involved designing an app that would generate recipes with ingredients that are in season, with the hope of improving sustainability habits. They share their experiences of completing Grand Challenges, their motivations for joining and the skills they developed throughout the week.  Grand Challenges is a project week in which you work in interdisciplinary groups with other like-minded students to design innovative solutions to real world challenges. Top academics and invited speakers share their views and help you apply your skills and knowledge to a real-life problem. It's open to all students and sign up for Grand Challenges 2024 is now open! Sign up for Grand Challenges or find out more on the Grand Challenges webpage.  

In this week's episode, Laura Ibarra Hempal, Faculty Lead for Employability (Humanities and Arts), is joined by alumna Hannah Smithdale, Account Director at Edelman to discuss what it's like to work in PR. Hannah shares her journey from graduate to becoming an Account Director and shares what a typical day looks like for her. Hannah also talks about the skills needed to work in PR and how completing the Career Mentor Scheme helped her when making career decisions.     Links: Career Mentor Scheme Interested in a Creative Career? Explore roles, build contacts and get experience with our series on in-person and virtual sessions running throughout Creative Careers Month. (https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/careers/research/creativecareers/)

In this week's episode Olivia, a Student Programme Assistant, is joined by students Clara, Aimee, Mattea and Ermira who completed the Mental Health Challenge in 2023. Their project involved creating a children's book which integrated theraplay techniques into the story, which caregivers could read and use with their children. They share their experiences of completing Grand Challenges, their motivations for joining and the skills they developed throughout the week.  Grand Challenges is a project week in which students work in interdisciplinary groups with other like-minded students to design innovative solutions to real world challenges. Top academics and invited speakers share their views and help you apply your skills and knowledge to a real-life problem. It's open to all undergraduates and sign up for Grand Challenges 2024 is now open! Sign up for Grand Challenges or find out more on the Grand Challenges webpage.