CV Adviser
Michael Richardson, MA Human Geography Research
Why I got involved
I applied just after I graduated as I wanted a part-time job that would be flexible enough to fit around my postgraduate degree timetable.
Main roles and activities
I am responsible for giving feedback to students on their CVs, covering letters and personal statements. I undertake these responsibilities both face-to-face at the Careers Service drop in and via e-mail communication services.
Most enjoyable aspect
I enjoy having the opportunity to work alongside students and graduates, helping them to maximise their skills, increase their employability, and enhance their personal attributes through their CVs and covering letters. My favourite experience so far was recently receiving positive feedback from a past student who had successfully gained a placement with Lloyds Banking Group in London.
Most rewarding aspect
It is always very satisfying to receive positive feedback from people who have attended consultations with me and the rest of the team. Hearing from successful candidates who you personally helped to get their foot on the career ladder gives you an enormous sense of pride, selflessness and encourages you to continue helping others achieve their dream job.
Fitting it around my degree
My masters degree timetable is taught quite intensely over lecture slots, meaning that I often have whole mornings or afternoons free for extra-curricular activities, part-time employment or extra study. The service is always ready to help if you have a clash in timetables or commitments which prevent you from working your shift; members of the team are always willing to help you out by swapping and covering your shifts.
How I've benefited
Through working with the Service I have developed my own CV and the ways in which I promote and develop my own personal skills and attributes. This has definitely helped me when applying for different opportunities, and played a large contributing factor in helping me to win ESRC funding to finance my future PhD.
Find out how you could become a CV adviser.
