I Got Hired: Dryden

Posted on: 11 October 2024 by Ruby O'Sullivan in Class of 2023

Dryden Spence is a Class of 2023 Psychology graduate who is now working as a Careers Adviser at Career North Ltd.

How did you hear about your role and decide to apply for it?

When I was searching for a job, I found the advert on Indeed for a Careers Adviser position, which included training towards a Level 4 Diploma and Level 6 Apprenticeship. I decided to apply for the role, as it seemed like the perfect job for me - I had just graduated with a Psychology degree and I had an interest in teaching. This career seemed like a great middle ground between the two.

How did you get to where you are now?

I struggled to find a solid career for over 6 months after graduating, and it had me very upset and frustrated. The main reason I am where I am today is my close friends and family. They all supported me and never let me feel defeated whilst I continued my career search. I knew I had a great education, some good experience and the right skills for the types of careers I wanted to begin, but the love and support from the people around me enabled me to unlock my full potential.

Your favourite experience as part of your role?

My favourite part of my job is being able to guide and support young people through difficult decisions in their lives. My role involves helping school students navigate GCSE options, revision, colleges, apprenticeships, universities and careers. It is such a rewarding feeling knowing that my input has made a student feel more at ease about their future or more comfortable making an informed decision about their next steps. The careers advice I received when I was at school was far from the best, so it is great to be able to give back what I never had.

What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?

The most challenging part of my graduate journey was the jump from university to the 'real world'. Nothing really prepares you for the stress and difficulty that arises when searching for your first job, especially when you don't have a firm career aim. On top of this, you must deal with things like electricity bills and council tax, both of which were alien concepts to me at university. It is challenging to adjust from the student lifestyle to that of a 'young professional'.

Top 3 Tips for current students and graduates:

1. Start looking for career opportunities a good few months before you are due to graduate.
2. Relish the University lifestyle and time with your friends - after graduation, everyone begins moving at different speeds.
3. Try to gain some valuable work experience AND life experience during your studies.

 
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