International Graduate Story: Chaitanya

Posted on: 19 December 2023 by Aditi Gupta in Graduate stories

Chaitanya, a 2023 graduate who studied MSc Advanced Computer Science and is now working as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the University of Liverpool.

Can you tell us more about your current role and describe a typical day in your role?

As a Graduate Teaching Assistant, my daily responsibilities are geared towards enhancing students’ understanding and engagement of the subject matter. I start my day by reviewing the course materials and lesson plans for the day's tutorial and lab sessions. I ensure any necessary resources and supplementary materials are prepared and accessible to facilitate the hands-on lab sessions effectively.

During the scheduled tutorial sessions, I engage with students, fostering an interactive learning environment. I present and clarify complex theoretical concepts covered in lectures, emphasizing practical application through Python programming exercises. I encourage discussions, address queries, and guide students through problem-solving exercises to reinforce their understanding.

Additionally, I contribute to the development of course materials, assignments, and assessments, ensuring alignment with learning objectives and the integration of practical Python exercises that resonate with the theoretical concepts. 

What do you like the most about your current role? 

I get immense satisfaction from witnessing the "aha" moments of students during their lab sessions. It is truly gratifying for me to help students comprehend challenging concepts and to observe their growth and enthusiasm in understanding Python. I also thoroughly enjoy collaborating with professors and contributing to the development of course materials and teaching strategies. This provides me with a sense of ownership and impact on the quality of education delivered in classrooms. Furthermore, I cherish the chance to interact with a diverse range of students. As students come from different backgrounds, they have different learning styles which challenges me to adapt my teaching methods and communication styles.

How did you go about finding this job opportunity? Do you have any advice for current students on how to look for roles of interest?

I found my role by directly reaching out to the course lead when I proactively contacted the course lead via email, highlighting my qualifications, relevant experience, and enthusiasm for educational roles. During this interaction, I emphasized my skill set and engaged in a discussion regarding my strengths and capabilities that aligned well with the teaching assistant position. By articulating my passion for the subject matter and demonstrating my suitability for the role, I was able to effectively convey my interest and commitment.

For current international roles who are seeking similar roles, I would recommend networking with people in the academic community. You can do this by attending events hosted by the relevant departments. Another recommendation is to utilize the university resources such as Handshake. Another great way is to seek informational interviews where you request professors or individuals in similar roles to have a chat where you gain insights into the responsibilities, expectations, and available opportunities. And last one is to consider volunteering or internships to gain experience and demonstrate your commitment in future applications.

 
What made you choose the UK as a graduate job destination?

UK offers a diverse job market with opportunities across multiple sectors. Industries like finance, technology, healthcare, creative arts, and engineering attract graduates due to the array of job options available. Additionally, working in the UK provides access to a diverse and well-connected professional network. Major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh serve as hubs for various industries, offering ample networking possibilities. More importantly, the UK’s cosmopolitan cities and diverse population has provided an enriching cultural experience for me.

In your opinion, what steps can current international students take for enhancing their employability and preparing themselves better for the graduate job market?

To boost your employability, focus on cultivating essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and time management. Gain practical experience through internships or volunteer opportunities related to your field, enhancing your resume and industry insights. Attend career events and workshops to build a professional network, opening doors to job opportunities and valuable advice. Improve language proficiency, especially in the primary language of your desired job market. Develop cultural adaptability as it can be an asset in a globalized job market. Invest in professional development through certifications or online courses to showcase your commitment to growth. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, emphasizing relevant skills and achievements. Utilize university career services for guidance on job search strategies and interview preparation. Seek mentorship from professors, alumni, or industry professionals to navigate the job market effectively.

Chaitanya suggests that preparing for job search early, during your academic programme, can help you enter the UK job market easily. Additionally, taking advantage of career services, workshops, careers fairs, and alumni networks provided by your university will make your job search process smooth.