Stepping away from my degree - Moving into a new industry

Posted on: 1 November 2022 by Richard Finch in Graduate stories

Ryan Atkins is a Class of 2021 Architecture graduate now working as a Social Media Adviser for Just Eat.

HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE ROLE?

I found the role advertised on Indeed and as a user on the Just Eat platform (who doesn't love a takeaway) it seemed like to great chance to be involved in such a large and successful company.

HOW DID YOU GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?

After coming out of university with limited experience I was really lucky to be a part of the Government Kickstart Scheme, which allowed me to gain experience in a 6-month placement with a local business. I am extremely grateful for this as it really helped me to explore my career options for the future, while earning and gaining that valuable experience in a related role.

YOUR FAVOURITE EXPERIENCE AS PART OF YOUR ROLE?

The great thing about my current role is that I get to work directly with customers online, and I personally find it very satisfying to have the opportunity to help someone and feel like I am making a positive difference to someone's day.

THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR GRADUATE JOURNEY?

Definitely, getting my foot in the door to industries that I'm interested in. As someone that was unsure where to go after graduation, it was a challenge to find a role that would cover my interests, as well as pay the bills, especially with limited experience in those fields.

TOP THREE TIPS FOR OTHER STUDENTS?

1. Grasp at every opportunity to gain experience in any industry that you are interested in - Whether it's a one-day workshop or a 6-month internship, these kinds of demonstrated knowledge in an area will really help to boost your employability.

2. Take your time to explore options - Try not to feel as though you need to decide on a lifelong career as soon as you graduate. If you have a strong idea of where you want to go that's great but if you are at all hesitant, take some time to look into different career paths and explore the things that you love to do.

3. Make sure to enjoy your time as a student - Being a student at a young age is only going to happen once in your lifetime. Be sure to relax a bit and enjoy the freedom that you have.