Unlock your career potential with practical work experience at Roehampton.
Stepping onto a university campus is exciting, but thinking about life after graduation is equally crucial. For students at the University of Roehampton, securing practical work experience is heavily integrated into the student lifecycle. Whether you are eyeing a formal sandwich course or a short-term internship program, gaining hands-on exposure in London's vibrant job market can set you apart.
Opting for a University of Roehampton placement year allows you to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. Employers increasingly look for graduates who have proven themselves in professional environments. In this guide, we explore how you can leverage Roehampton's dedicated career services, secure top-tier industry placements, and maximize your employment prospects in the UK.
Embarking on a placement year is one of the most impactful decisions you can make during your degree. Not only does it give you a competitive edge, but it also helps you build a professional network before you even graduate.
As "Doing my placement year completely changed my perspective and gave me the confidence to secure a graduate job before my final year even started." - Jessica Taylor, Business Management Student
You don't have to navigate the complex world of work experience alone. The University of Roehampton offers robust career services designed to support you from your first year through to graduation and beyond.
The dedicated careers team assists with CV reviews, mock interviews, assessment center preparation, and exclusive job boards. They maintain strong connections with local and international employers, ensuring that students have access to top-tier internship programs and graduate schemes.
Depending on your degree program, you will have different pathways to gain work experience UK-wide. It is essential to understand the difference between a traditional sandwich course and standard summer internships.
| Type | Duration | Best For | Academic Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sandwich Course / Placement Year | 9 to 12 months | Full immersion in a corporate or non-profit environment | Usually counts towards degree title or transcript |
| Summer Internship Program | 6 to 12 weeks | Short-term skill acquisition and exploring different sectors | Extracurricular or faculty-approved credit |
| Part-time Work Experience | Flexible (during term time) | Balancing studies with practical income and basic skills | None (independent) |
Securing a competitive industry placement requires dedication, preparation, and resilience. The application process often mirrors graduate job hunting, meaning early preparation is key.
Never send a generic CV and cover letter. Research the company, align your skills with their job description, and highlight relevant projects from your coursework at Roehampton.
Reach out to Roehampton alumni on professional platforms like LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences during their placement year and for advice on breaking into their specific industry.
Take advantage of on-campus career fairs and networking events hosted by the university. Face-to-face interactions leave a lasting impression that a digital application cannot always match.
Investing your time in a University of Roehampton placement year is an investment in your future. By utilizing the university's career services, preparing thoroughly, and staying proactive, you can land valuable work experience that paves the way for a successful career.