Take advantage of your university’s career service

Most universities in the UK offer dedicated careers services for students—an invaluable resource that’s not as common in some other countries around the world.

Engaging with a careers professional can benefit you in many ways. They can guide you in making informed decisions about your future, help you explore available opportunities, and support you in crafting a compelling CV or preparing for interviews. Career practitioners can also assist you in understanding workplace cultures, identifying trends in the job market, and uncovering gaps that align with your skills and aspirations.

Despite these benefits, figures show that many international students don’t fully utilise the career services available to them, even though they have invested significant amounts of money in studying in the UK. This can happen for a variety of reasons: some students believe the team may not have relevant information about opportunities in their home country, others feel uncomfortable approaching a careers professional, and many are simply too busy or aren’t aware the service exists.

However, these services exist to help you, and it’s worth taking advantage of the expertise available. Speaking with a qualified professional about your career could provide clarity, direction, and insights you may not find elsewhere. After all, your career could span 40 years or more after graduation—it’s worth investing a small amount of time now to set yourself up for long-term success.

Remember, reaching out isn’t a sign of uncertainty or weakness; it’s a proactive step towards building the future you want.