From classroom to career: how I built my employability at UoB

You might be worried that your degree has less of a clear career path than others, or that you can’t balance building your CV and university work at the same time. However, there’s no need to stress! As an English Literature student, on a course that has less of a clear career path than some degrees, I have managed to build my employability over my time at UoB.

Firstly, part-time work through the university is possible for a lot of people. If you think that a typical part-time job won’t be flexible enough, then a job with the university is perfect, as you can choose your shifts. In my first year, I became a student ambassador, helping out at Open days and school visits and choosing which shifts I applied to. In my second year, I also decided to become a student content creator. This role has also been really flexible, and I’ve made videos for the UoB social media, recorded the campus audio tour, and written blogs (like this one!). These jobs have helped me develop my communication and leadership skills, and my technology and content creation skills. I have also gained some valuable connections within the university and made lots of friends!

Another great activity to boost your CV is volunteering. Once again, this is made easy through the university a lot of the time. In my second year, I was a student mentor for two new students. This role included reaching out to them, meeting with them, and answering any questions they had. I also volunteered with the National Literacy Trust with their Birmingham branch. This was flexible, and I could choose which events to help with and contribute to. There are loads of roles like this, inside and outside the university. Volunteering is a great thing to do as it can fulfil you whilst also proving to employers that you are dedicated to helping people and your community.

Joining societies is a fun way to boost your CV. Joining a society related to the career area you’re interested in proves a long-standing passion and commitment. Societies can push your CV even further if you volunteer to help on the committee. Because of my love for the societies, I became the manager of the University Brass Band and the Head of Podcasting at the student radio society Burn FM. Both roles gave me loads of practical experience and skills to add to my CV, and as a bonus, I made friends and had lots of fun!

Work experience within your course can be a great way to fit practical work into university life. Some courses already have a built-in year in industry, but some, like mine, might only have a Professional Skills Module. As a part of my PSM module, I did a two-week internship at the record company Big Bear and gained insight into running a company and working in an office. If your course doesn’t have an option for working, it’s always a good idea to look for professional experience you can do over the summer. Even if it’s only two weeks like mine, it’s all useful for your CV.

Finally, the university has an amazing employability award called the Birmingham Award. Coming from someone who has achieved this award with distinction, you’ll find this surprisingly easy if you’re already doing some of the roles I’ve listed. To achieve it, you show your commitment to a few roles (part-time work, committee member, volunteer, etc.), and there are loads to choose from. 

Make sure you’ve added all these roles to your LinkedIn and your CV so more employers can see your hard work, and you’re good to go!