This summer, we hosted Natalie, a Physics student, as a Bath Insights Intern within the Careers Service.
The original aim was to explore creating an interactive careers resource, something we had wanted to do for some time but had never had the capacity to prioritise. Over eight weeks, Natalie not only delivered that resource but went on to create two additional student-facing resources, all based on topics she identified as important from her own experiences as a student.
Resource creation
The first was an interactive Xerte resource on using generative AI in job applications. She also created a "Sort Your Summer" resource to help students find opportunities and make the most of their summer break, as well as a guide on staying competitive in the job market without relying on AI. Together, these resources tackled issues that students are actively thinking about and looking for support with.
The impact was significant. We originally expected one completed resource and ended up with three. These were projects that simply would not have happened without an intern. We knew there was more we wanted to produce around AI and using interactive learning, but we hadn't had the capacity to take those ideas forward. Having a dedicated intern allowed us to explore new approaches and create resources that otherwise wouldn't have existed.
Strengths of hosting an intern
One of the biggest strengths Natalie brought was her student perspective. She was able to draw on her own experiences, identify topics that felt relevant to students and create resources that genuinely spoke to their needs. As careers professionals, we work closely with students every day, but there is real value in having a current student involved in shaping resources. It helps ensure we're focusing on the right things and presenting information in a way that resonates with the people we're trying to support.
Natalie also brought fresh ideas and a willingness to try new approaches. While developing the resources she taught herself new skills, including using AI effectively herself, HTML and Xerte, and introduced ideas for presenting content that we are now looking to use more widely across our student guides.
Manager experience
Managing Bath Insights interns continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of my role. This was my third year hosting an intern, and I am always surprised by how much students achieve in a relatively short period of time. Giving Natalie an open brief allowed her to take real ownership of the work, and the end result exceeded our expectations.
Return on investment
I would wholeheartedly recommend the programme to colleagues. The return on investment is excellent, both in terms of the outputs produced and the fresh perspective interns bring. Even in a student-facing service, having a student work alongside us as a colleague provides valuable insight and helps challenge assumptions. Natalie's contribution has had a lasting impact on our resources, and seeing her confidence grow as she presented her work to the team at the end of the internship was a reminder of just how valuable these opportunities can be, for both students and the teams that host them.
You can explore Natalie's interactive AI resource here: Careers launches new interactive AI resource: Careers launches new interactive AI resource
Rebecca Wray
Information Officer
Careers Service
Respond
