How Can I Gain More Experience While I am Studying?

Students around the world are often concerned about what their job prospects will be when they finish their studies. A sure-fire way to strengthen your employability is by completing a practical placement, either as part of your studies or of your own accord.

An ideal course will have a balance of theory and practical experience, ensuring that you graduate ready for the workforce. Many study providers will even include a compulsory practical component as part of your studies. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable practical experience in your chosen industry and can really strengthen your employability. Employers will often consider graduates who have practical experience over other applicants for a position.

Even if a practical placement is not a compulsory component of your studies, it is a good idea to look for a work placement or volunteer position yourself. Your study provider may have databases available which will allow you to search for organisations which offer work placement programs. Your trainers may also be able to put you in contact with organisations looking for volunteers.

Your study provider will have established strong industry links and can often assist you with networking and interview opportunities during your studies. Your trainers may be able to assist you with this, through their industry contacts, or your study provider may host networking events, which will allow you to form valuable connections with industry partners. Even if these connections do not lead to a position after you graduate, do not discount them! They can be a great resource in many different ways throughout your future career.

Some study providers are even able to assist students and graduates in finding employment. They may have links with recruitment agencies, or may even have their own recruitment agency. This is a great resource if you are looking for part-time work in industry while you are completing your studies. It allows you to earn and learn and get ahead of your peers by demonstrating that that you can apply the knowledge and skills, which you have acquired as part of your studies, to a practical situation.

What if you want to travel the world while you study? Other study providers will even offer international practical placement programs, which can provide you with an invaluable opportunity to gain international exposure and experience. These programs allow you to apply practical skills developed in the classroom to different cultural settings and gain an understanding and appreciation of working in an international environment.