August 25, 2022, by Leah Sharpe

Gain Valuable Work Experience and New Skills Through Unitemps

By Lucy Cletheroe, mental health nursing student

Are you interested in carrying out part-time work alongside your studies?

It can be a really enjoyable experience with the added benefit of gaining financial income, helping to keep the incomings and outgoings more balanced, plus building useful skills for your CV. 

Applying for jobs through Unitemps

I secured a subject student ambassador role which involves attending student recruitment events such as open days and offer holder days, both in person and online. I speak to provisional students and their families, answering any questions they may have about the course, university life, living in Nottingham, or any general queries.

I’ve had a really positive experience using Unitemps to apply for the student ambassador roles. I initially discovered Unitemps when I received an email advertising a job that interested me. From registering and completing the job application form at the beginning of the process, I had good communication with the Unitemps team. They informed me of the next steps in the process and gave clear instructions for what I needed to do to progress. The online timesheets are easy to complete and I receive regular emails notifying me of any updates or actions I need to take, which is very helpful being a busy student!

New skills

My communication skills and my ability to work in a team have been further developed. Despite finding it daunting interacting with new people, taking on this role has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to grow as an individual. Overcoming those initial anxieties and attending events has given me many opportunities to feel fulfilled. For example, being able to offer people support and guidance is something I am very passionate about as I am aware prospective students are making big choices for their future and we have all been there before. Achieving a sense of satisfaction from my job motivates me to continue working at other recruitment events. Most importantly, all of these self-development skills will make a valuable contribution to my future career in nursing.

New learning

1. I have learned how important it is to have a genuine passion for the job I am undertaking, to get the most out of it for myself, but also to be able to offer others useful advice.

2. Having a flexible part-time job has also helped improve my time management skills. I am now more aware of how to balance my studying commitments and personal life with having a job, which is a skill that can be carried with me throughout life.

3. Finally, being a subject ambassador, has allowed me to work closely alongside academics and other students, widening my personal network.

My advice

1. Check the job description and interview criteria thoroughly to ensure you have a clear understanding of the role responsibilities

2. Consider any other commitments you have and how you will balance your time (including the fun things!)

3. Take some time to think about how the job will benefit you and others and what you intend to get out of it

4. If you know anyone else who has applied for the same/similar job, ask what their experience has been like

Explore the work experience opportunities on offer at Nottingham, including part-time jobs with Unitemps

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