July 25, 2024, by Jackie Thompson

The Advantage Award and enhancing my career prospects

By Hemaskshi Soni, sociology and social policy student

Before I share my experience of the Nottingham Advantage Award (NAA) here is a quick summary of the employability scheme. Through the Award, you can gain formal recognition for your involvement in extracurricular activities and enhance your personal and professional development.

What does the Advantage Award involve?

You can do up to two modules per year and applications open at three points in the year on 23 September, 1 December and 1 May. The Award offers a wide range of modules tailored to various interests and career goals, here are just a few examples:

*Outgoing Study Abroad – Developing Cultural Awareness

*UoN SU Sustainability Challenge

*Enterprise Rent-A-Car Business Challenge

*The Importance of Representation in The Students’ Union

*Part-Time Jobs, Vacation Jobs and Volunteering

My experience on the Award

Last summer, I completed the Placement and Internship Schemes module. I undertook this module through my internship at the Mojatu Foundation as part of the Widening Participation scheme. The assessment involved writing a 500-word blog about my placement experience, a detailed action plan, and a reflection on what I had learned. This module was instrumental in helping me shape my career aspirations by reflecting on my experiences and critically evaluating my strengths and weaknesses and how these skills apply in real-world settings.

I have also applied for the Inspiring Young People module, which I will complete in November. As part of this module, I can accredit the work I have done during my placement with the university’s Widening Participation team.

Taking this module will allow me to design a session, lesson plan and activity to introduce primary and secondary school students to university life and higher education. This scheme is available for student ambassadors, IntoUniversity volunteers, Learning leaders and more. It is a great opportunity to put the skills I have learned into practice and is a valuable addition to my CV.

What are the benefits of the Advantage Award?

1. Build your CV
Gain formal recognition for your extracurricular activities and make your CV stand out to employers by gaining skills such as leadership, communication and teamwork

2. Reflect on your skills
The Award helps you to reflect on skills you have learnt and how to apply them in interviews and applications. It also helps you to develop your strengths and identify areas for improvement

3. Personal and professional development
Demonstrates a proactive approach and a commitment to making the most of your university experience

4. Practical experience
It gives you the opportunity to explore new things and gain practical experience beyond the academic curriculum

The Award is a valuable and free programme that enhances your employability and prepares you for future career success. Find out more about the Award and take a look at the module catalogue to see what opportunities are available for you. 

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