August 16, 2019, by Leah Sharpe
How My University Experience Helped Me On My Career Journey
By Aparajita Roy, MSc Economic Development and Policy alumni and Head of Market Research at KornChain
I will always remember the day when I started working at the Central Bank of India. The efforts put into getting the internship there, started off right from my days at the University of Nottingham. It has helped in more ways than I was hoping for. Here are four specific areas of my University experience that have helped me on my career journey so far:
1. Character building
The university helped me to build my character. I have always been very strong willed and eager to learn. And it was opportune enough to learn from some of the best tutors, live and study at an outstanding campus, and make amazing friends from around the world.
2. Undertaking a postgraduate degree
I was often asked post-graduation if a one-year masters course is sufficient. And I would confidently say that undertaking a postgraduate level course equipped me with tools and methods that I have been able to use in life. It’s not about how many subjects you learn. It is learning how to address a topic in a way to solve the problem.
3. Submitting a research paper
Independent research was one of the most important and relevant parts of the entire curriculum, the necessary test to qualify as a postgraduate. Timely guidance from my supervisor and suggestions from seniors finally helped me make a strong argument in support of my research. By the end of the term I submitted a well written research paper. The exposure and practice I gained was extremely valuable.
4. Accessing the Careers and Employability Service
The Careers website and services were a lot of help. I applied for multiple internships during the summer and had to present in interviews. These were the building blocks. Additionally, I developed a sense of looking at the big-picture, identifying prospects, analytical thinking, time management, team-building, leadership and most importantly, working in collaboration. More or less every day now, I have to create a presentation deck. And because I started early, I know how to prepare myself. I continually employ my approach as a learner.
Choosing to study at the University of Nottingham has proven to be one of the best decisions and I always look back to my learnings with fond memories of my time there. I would say to anyone starting their career journey, be brave to dream. Trust your instincts and work strategically towards your end goal, one step at a time.
Our Careers team are here to help you every step of the way. Book an appointment with a careers adviser if you would like to talk through your plans for after graduation.
I enjoyed your article a lot. For me its the connections i made while in campus have come in handy in my career.