When I applied to study economics at Bath, I knew I wanted to take a year out before my final year, but I didn’t know what the best thing to do would be or what all my options were. I also had no idea what kind of job I wanted after graduating. Now, thanks to the University’s incredible Careers team, I have two graduate job offers before I’ve even started my final year, and I have taken a hugely rewarding year out.
Applying for placements
In Semester 2 of my first year, I attended the Economics Personal Development Programme (PDP). These weekly PDP sessions gave an insight into crafting a CV, making job applications, and learning about the world of work. Over the summer, following the team’s advice, I engaged in various virtual experiences to enhance my understanding of the options out there.
In September of my second year, I began looking through opportunities available on the University’s placements hub. The advice was to apply for 15 to 25 opportunities; enough to ensure that a few inevitable rejections wouldn’t hurt, but not so many that I would be swamped by placement applications during the university term. Having found a few opportunities that interested me, the Careers team reviewed my CV and cover letter and I made my first applications.
In November, I booked a practice Group Exercise with the Careers team. I was delighted to receive an offer for a 12-month placement as an Economic & Financial Consultant at FTI Consulting in London.
Finding a summer internship
Given my placement was due to start the following September, I turned my attention to finding a short internship for the summer. Having obtained a position in a large firm, I wanted to find an opportunity in a smaller company to give me the best chance at working out not only the career I wanted to pursue, but also the environment I wanted to work in. Following a successful virtual assessment centre, I joined Thorogood in July for a six-week stint as a Data & Analytics Consultant. Offers are made throughout the year, so it's never too late (or early!) to apply.
Placement advice for students
Placement applications can be tough and time-consuming. Some jobs are unpaid, and most paid ones offer around 30% less than the equivalent graduate job.
To anyone considering taking a year out, or thinking about ways to improve their employability, I would wholeheartedly recommend speaking to the University’s Careers team. There are lots of options, including short summer jobs, internships lasting a few months, or placements of up to 13 months in all kinds of industries.
I relished my time in both my internship opportunities and would recommend considering all the options out there available to you.