How did you get involved with Joblink? What was your experience like?
“I got involved with Joblink through a Generative AI research group for the University. I had heard about Joblink through my peers and friends as well.”
“I have had a really good experience working with Joblink. They offer a variety of shifts, mainly in hospitality, such as café and bar work across the University as well as at First Direct Arena.”
Tell us about your working experience!
“Throughout my studies, from A-Level to University, I have had a diverse range of work experience in a variety of industries, including leisure, retail and hospitality. It has been important financially to work alongside my studies but it has also enabled me to develop a range of skills in a professional environment.”
“I have worked as a lifeguard and a swimming teacher, which has offered flexibility around my studies and provided good pay. It’s been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to interact with a diverse range of people, improving my problem solving skills, developing my leadership and teaching abilities, and sharpening planning and time management.”
“To compliment my primary role, I’ve taken on casual positions alongside swimming teaching at the O2 Academy and Joblink. This flexibility of casual positions enables me to work around my swimming teaching and University work. This work has been more social, and working with people around my age has fostered a strong sense of community and teamwork.”
“I am also employed by the University for a Generative AI student group, as well as being a student ambassador. The front facing role regarding student ambassador has further developed my communication and professionalism when representing the University.”
“Reflecting on my varied work experiences, it has furthered my professional development in terms of developing skills which will help me later when applying for jobs post-graduation. I would also argue that all experience is good experience as part-time work that may not be directly related to the field you want to go into after University still demonstrates to potential employers that you’re a hard worker and have practical skills that could be relevant experience in addition to you academic qualification.”
Let's talk about study-work balance! Do you have any tips?
“Coming to University has highlighted to me the disparities in terms of people’s upbringings and financial situations. I think this is heightened by the fact that this is a Russell Group University, and there are a lot of people from quite wealthy backgrounds, as well as private education.”
“I always knew I would have to work a part-time job when I came to University. I didn’t realise how common it was for people to come to University and not have to work, and be able to just focus on their studies. Whilst I do think gaining work experience is important, I would like the option not to while being a student. I think going to university can reinforce barriers between the people that have to work and people that don’t work at all. I have surrounded myself with people in similar situations, and it’s nice to have friends that understand your financial circumstances, and empathise and don’t pressure you financially if you can’t afford a night out, for example.”
“I think that as a student you’re already juggling multiple things, such as tyring to be involved in societies, going to lectures, keeping up with your reading, handing in assignments, being social, looking after yourself physically and emotionally – and the last thing that you want to do is go to work. Sometimes it is quite mentally draining, especially working bar shifts when you finish at 5am, so I think making sure you prioritise your health is the most important thing.”
This article has been edited for clarity before being published.
