How to Improve Your Academic Resume
It’s never too early to start preparing for life after university, and even if you’re still in school, you can make a difference. Employers consider not only your qualifications but also your interests and experience, so it’s important to have more than just a top degree to secure a job after graduation. To improve your CV before starting university, consider the following tips:
1- Conduct research
Although it may be tempting to put off planning for your future, taking the time to explore your options now can help you determine whether university is the right path for you and what you want to do. Spend some time researching careers that interest you and the steps required to get there. Even if you’re unsure of your career path, researching options can help you identify the necessary steps to get started in your field. Starting early can save you time and effort in the long run and help you set achievable goals to keep you on track.
2- Develop your CV
Start working on your CV even if you don’t need it yet. You’ll need one to kickstart your career, and starting early will help you identify any gaps that you can fill in the meantime. Create a written list of your accomplishments to remind yourself of what you’ve already achieved and plan your next steps to fill in any gaps you notice.
3- Acquire new skills
Learning new skills can bolster your CV, help you establish connections, and provide you with experience in learning new things, whether or not you know your career objectives. Use your CV to identify gaps in your experience and tailor your new skills to fill these gaps. For example, if you have strong communication skills but no evidence to demonstrate it, consider volunteering or participating in a team project. Consider learning a musical instrument, teaching yourself how to code, learning a new language, or something else. All of these abilities demonstrate to employers that you are motivated and eager to learn. Hobbies frequently have transferable skills that can also benefit you in the workplace. Becoming a blogger, for example, can improve your written communication and time management abilities, as well as encourage you to learn related skills like graphic design.
4- Apply for internships or work experience
Employers appreciate seeing that potential employees are proactive, interested, and have invested time in their development before applying for a job. Relevant work experience prepares you for the workplace and allows you to see how an industry operates before you land your first job. Work placements are critical in some industries, such as healthcare or law, and optional in others. Completing an internship at a reputable organization demonstrates to employers that you know what you’re doing and understand the workplace, as well as introducing you to connections in the company. Explore the work experience opportunities available if you choose to join us at Portsmouth.
5- Get a part-time job
There’s no better way to prepare for a lifetime of work than by getting a job. Some part-time jobs may not be directly related to your future career, but that’s okay. Getting a job increases your workplace experience (and boosts your income), which will help you when your post-graduation job hunt begins.
6- Volunteer
Volunteering can take many forms, such as working in a charity shop for a cause you care about, running bucket collections, organizing or participating in fundraising challenges, or raising awareness of your cause. Community groups like Scouts or Girl Guides are also eager to take on volunteers. In exchange for your time, you’ll gain teamwork or leadership experience and improve your essential skills like organization, communication, and time management. Consider what’s important to you and what you want to gain from your volunteering, and try to find a role that supports both. Once you’re at university, our volunteering team can assist you in developing skills to enhance your CV.
7- Travel
Exploring different places and cultures can be an excellent opportunity for personal growth and learning. You can travel alone or join a travel group (many volunteering schemes and charities offer opportunities to travel abroad). Independent travel requires more time management and planning, while group travel highlights your communication and reliability skills.
8- Pursue your hobbies
Having a good degree is not enough to secure a job, and hobbies can be beneficial. Hobbies not only demonstrate your passions and interests but also showcase your skills and talents. Consider joining a club or group related to your hobby to expand your social circle and develop your skills.