August 11, 2017, by Carla
Why a Graduate Internship Was the Best Decision for Me
By Rachel Hoskins, BA Hons Archaeology (2016)
As an arts graduate with an archaeology degree, the prospect of getting a job was daunting to say the least. It wasn’t the right time for further education and I found it hard to settle on what I really wanted to do with my future.
I decided to apply for a graduate internship because it would allow me to ‘test out’ a sector without feeling like I was tied to it. My reasoning was that gaining experience in any sector would help me work out what I really enjoyed. It would also be a great way to strengthen my CV.
Finding the right opportunity
I came across an internship advertised by the University at the Nottingham Counselling Service. It immediately caught my eye. I’d been applying for jobs in marketing as that’s where I had – entirely accidentally – gained most experience through volunteering as a student. but I didn’t feel much connection to the brands I was considering representing and promoting. This was not the case with the Nottingham Counselling Service. It was a not-for-profit, in the city, working with mental health, and offering a digital media role. It ticked all of my boxes, both experience-wise and ideologically!
After applying and being asked in for an interview, the heavy research began and I fell in love with the service. I knew that I would be proud to work as part of the charity.
Enjoying the variety of the role
I’m never bored, the enthusiasm I feel for the work of Nottingham Counselling Service makes my job very fulfilling. As a Digital Media Officer, I work mostly on digital projects for the charity. This can be prepping for a shiny new website or progressing our online marketing strategy. So much of it is to do with engagement with volunteers, those in need of the service, and potential donors.
My main piece of advice?
Make sure you’re getting the most out of it. Easy to say, but a bit vague I know, so I’ll tell you what I make sure I do. I make sure I’m not holding back any of my creativity or my energy for fear of being ‘wrong’.
As an intern, you’re only with a company for a short amount of time, and if you don’t give it everything you’ve got, it won’t end up being a fulfilling experience! If you trust your initiative and (informed) instinct, you’ll find that both you and your employer get the most out of your internship.
Are you looking for graduate internships, so you can kick-start your career? Express your interest for the Nottingham Internship Scheme here or search by position type on My Career to find current vacancies.
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