Careers Workshops: University of Dundee

A joint bid from Dundee University's Advisory Service and Careers Service won £4,400 to fund a series of job search workshops.

The workshops were aimed at international students who might want to stay in Scotland after graduation but who weren't sure how to go about it.

Careers Adviser, Angus Campbell, explained: "Some of the students had heard of Fresh Talent but they didn't know that the Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme meant they could extend their visas for two years after graduation.

"So the workshops helped to raise awareness of Fresh Talent as well as giving the students practical guidance about the Scottish job market and helping to indentify opportunities."

The workshops ran throughout the 2nd semester from mid January to March 2007 starting with ½ day self-assessment sessions which looked at career plans and cultural awareness.

Developmental workshops followed, concentrating on CVs, applications and interviews. Mock interviews run by the careers advisers helped the students polish their technique.

"It wasn't easy to get employers involved so we were very pleased to have Thorntons in Dundee and Turke and Connell in Edinburgh come in to speak to the students," continued Angus.

"Meeting real employers gave the students a chance to find out first-hand about job opportunities and what Scottish companies look for in employees.

"Organising the workshops and finding external speakers was time consuming but it was definitely worthwhile. All the sessions were oversubscribed and the feedback we got was very positive. The students told us they found the sessions really valuable."

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