Hi! I'm Barbara. As an international student, I found employability complex. You are adapting to a new country, education system, and professional culture at the same time.
I didn’t take a placement year, but I focused on building employability early and consistently. Strategic steps in the first two years helped me strengthen my CV and prepare for a graduate role long before graduation.
Here’s what that was like for me.
First year
In my first year, I focused on what was achievable for me. I took a part-time job as a barista in town and kept up my previous job from before university. While hospitality may not seem corporate, it helps build responsibility and resilience, qualities highly valued by employers.
I also began applying for Insight Weeks. During this period, the government began discussing changes to skilled worker visa rules, prompting some companies to halt visa sponsorships. A few opportunities unexpectedly vanished at the last minute. I mention this not to discourage anyone, but to show that setbacks are part of every path, and you learn to adapt.
At the same time, I applied for the first intake of the Bath Insights Internship Programme. Working in Campus Services helped me understand how the university functions, enhanced my professional communication, and build confidence working in structured teams. It strengthened my CV and made me feel more connected to campus life, which is especially important as an international student.
For me, the first year was about starting early and learning how to function in a professional setting.
Second year
By the second year, I realised that to secure a strong summer internship, I needed better grades and more relevant experience.
That’s when I became an Outreach Ambassador and an Alumni Fundraiser. These roles pushed me beyond my comfort zone. I learned how to speak confidently with new people, adapt my communication style, and handle rejections. I often found these opportunities through university emails, the Students’ Union website, or even posters around campus.
For me, these roles were training. They improved my professionalism, cultural awareness, and confidence working in English. When I first arrived at university, speaking and working in a second language felt like a huge challenge. These experiences helped me become much more comfortable.
During this time, I secured a summer internship at a bank. Although it seemed competitive, I believe that no one should ever think that a particular role is out of their reach. I prepared my CV for a good month using MyFuture. I wasn’t completely sure it would be my long-term career, but I decided to give it a try and prepare as well as I could. After the internship, I received a return offer for a graduate scheme.
Third year
Now in my third year, I can focus more on my studies and preparing for the transition after graduation. In many ways, the hard work happened earlier.
Final thoughts
The job market can feel uncertain, especially for international students, and visa rules can change rapidly. However, many companies still recognise the unique value that international students bring.
My offer could easily have been a rejection. What mattered most was knowing I had tried my best at every stage.
If there is one thing I wish to emphasise from my experience, it is to start early, stay consistent, and treat every role as preparation for the next opportunity. For me, developing employability from the first year and securing a summer internship made it possible to pursue a graduate scheme.
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