Mature students and careers
'Mature student' means any student aged 21 to pensionable age. As a mature student, you may have different career goals and reasons for studying. Whatever these are, remember that your experience is valuable and employers will appreciate it.
Present yourself positively on paper and in person when you look for work experience, placements or graduate jobs. Show the value of all your experiences. This includes any skills you developed through a previous career or while raising a family.
Join extra-curricular activities outside your comfort zone while you're at university. This will help build your confidence, create new networks and develop your social capital (understanding of unspoken rules).
Build your professional network by meeting employers at careers events. Talk to Bath Alumni too using Bath Connection. LinkedIn groups can also help you expand your professional connections.
Be realistic about salary expectations, especially if you're changing careers. Look for employers who are committed to diverse recruiting. Check their Equal Opportunity policies and staff profiles. Do they show a diverse workforce?
Resources
- Our blog has more guidance on how to market yourself effectively as a mature student.
- We run events specifically to support mature students and career changers - find event lists on MyFuture.
- The University of York Careers Service has CV tips for mature students and career changers.
- Working Families also provides support.
The Equality Act 2010
In 2010, the Equality Act came into effect. It replaced all existing legislation with one comprehensive act covering race, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, and religion and belief.
View the full text of the Equality Act 2010
Discrimination happens when someone treats you less favourably because of your age, race, gender, sexuality, disability, or ethnic or national origin. Under the Act, it's illegal for employers to discriminate against you for any of these reasons.
If you think you've faced discrimination on your placement or internship, speak to a Careers Consultant or your Placement Officer.