Why you should apply for the Solent Graduate Associate Scheme

When I graduated in 2014, I was unsure what to do next. I knew I had a passion for the Travel and Tourism industry after gaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management, but I felt I needed more experience to develop my transferable skills before starting my future career.

I then found out about the Solent Graduate Associate Scheme for 12 months at Southampton Solent University and knew this could be a great opportunity for me. There were a range of positions available and I was most attracted to the Placement Developer Graduate role within Employability & Enterprise. This was mainly because I wanted to support students finding a placement and make the placement process easier for students. I also knew I would enjoy interacting with students as well as employers. Therefore, I applied for the role online at Jobs@solent, and after a successful interview I was offered the job.

I am now 6 months into my role as a Graduate Associate Placement Developer and I have enjoyed every minute. I have been involved in a number of projects such as the Placement Peer Mentoring Scheme, The Placement Conference, The Thomas Cook Placement Assessment day, Placement workshops, The Placement Bulletin, Writing the Placement Portal Pages, as well as arranging Wednesday Placement days at the drop-in centre. Soo…. everyday can be different but you’re constantly being involved in different projects and opportunities, which can enhance your transferable skills such as time management, organisation as well as communication skills.

I believe the Graduate Associate Scheme at Solent has not only enhanced my transferable skills and given me the experience I needed, but has also allowed me to become more professional in the work environment as well as boosting my confidence to believe in myself in the future.

Tips for applying for the Graduate Scheme at Solent

Get your CV and covering letter checked in the drop-in centre in the Mountbatten Library Apply early and organise a mock interview with a careers adviser – book using CareerBox on

MyCourse After the interview, if you are successful, make sure you involve yourself in every opportunity

and make the most out of the Graduate Scheme

Try and network with as many people as possible at a variety of events; you never know where that contact could lead.

For example, through networking, I am now leaving the Graduate Associate Scheme at Solent and starting my career at Tourism South East as a Training Executive. The transferable skills I have developed through the Graduate Scheme can now be transferred into my new role.

Still not convinced?

Research the Solent Graduate Associate Scheme at: http://portal.solent.ac.uk/careers/graduate-work/solent-graduate-scheme/solent-graduate-scheme.aspx and apply TODAY.

Lois Collier – Graduate Associate: Placements Developer