3 Things I Did Throughout University That Helped Me Secure My Graduate Role
Feb 11, 2024
Just to give you a heads up before I spill the beans – I snagged my grad job right in the middle of my last year at university. I'd been working part-time as a graphic designer for about eight months, but it wasn't quite the area I wanted to be in. An amazing opportunity arose with Scoot Digital and I landed a job in an agency, which was exactly where I wanted to be.
However, to grab hold of this fantastic opportunity, I put in the effort to make the most out of my university experience and catch the eye of potential employers. So, here are three actions I took during my time at university that boosted my CV and enhanced my employability as a digital designer:
I kicked things off by creating an Instagram account to showcase my design work and attract freelance clients.
Sure, you could opt for any social media platform, but personally as a designer, I discovered that Instagram was the ideal space to showcase visuals and get my work noticed. The creative possibilities on Instagram are vast, allowing me to curate a profile featuring a blend of portfolio pieces and handy tips for fellow designers and business owners. Managing this platform has been a learning experience, reinforcing my belief that establishing an online presence can significantly boost employability and is an effective way to grab attention.
I delved into passion projects outside of my university assignments to enhance my skills and broaden my portfolio.
This was a major move for me—I likely worked on more passion projects than actual university assignments, and they now form a substantial chunk of my portfolio. Taking what I learned in university, I applied it to projects in areas that truly fascinated me. These passion projects not only equipped me with new skills but also allowed me to thoroughly explore my capabilities as a designer. Demonstrating this level of enthusiasm and determination is precisely what employers value in students and graduates.
I actively pursued opportunities that allowed me to enhance my CV and grow my professional skills.
This involved things like speaking at a student conference, grabbing freelance gigs, and even collaborating with clients within the university. For me, making the most of my university journey was a priority, and I was keen on doing everything possible (without interfering with my coursework) to boost my employability as a grad. Taking on these extra activities not only boosted my confidence as a professional but also got me ready for the jump into full-time employment.
If you're a student or recent graduate aiming to maximise your university experience and boost your employability, giving some of these tips a shot could make a real difference!
Disclaimer: The insights shared here stem from my personal experiences and what has proven effective for me. It's important to note that everyone's journey is unique, and what worked for me may not work for everyone.