Careers and student entrepreneurs

Most universities also support students who are looking to set-up their own business or consultancy.

Careers support and advice

Some students choose a course because it’s linked to a specific career. Some students have not thought that far ahead and are very unsure about what jobs and careers they may like to do.

The support and advice from the careers team covers:

• Researching different careers, employers and jobs to find those that are a good fit for you
• Meeting employers and finding out about their vacancies and graduate schemes
• Application skills such as writing a CV, preparing for individual and group interviews, mock assessment centre tests
• Developing business skills such as networking, business planning, writing and delivering presentations
• Applying for paid or voluntary placement or internships

Entrepreneurs

Rather than work for someone else, you may be looking to set-up your own business, consultancy or solo career. Most universities have an enterprise hub or zone where you can meet specialist advisers who will help you navigate the practicalities of setting up on your own.

The support and advice from an enterprise team normally covers:

• Considering the commercial viability of your business idea or product
• Drafting a business plan that stands up to scrutiny from investors and lenders
• Providing office facilities or meeting spaces for you to use with access to phones or free wi-fi
• Hosting networking events where you can meet other student or graduate entrepreneurs and share your experiences
• Arranging seminars and lectures from business advisers and successful entrepreneurs
• Advice on copyright and intellectual property 

As a student, you can choose to access support and advice from both the careers team and the enterprise advisers. Some students will take part in start-up competitions run by the enterprise team because although they are not looking to set-up their own business, they gain skills that are valued by employers.