I Got Hired: Maya

Posted on: 16 October 2024 by Ruby O'Sullivan in Class of 2023

Maya Killcross is a Class of 2023 Geology grad who now works as a Technical Graduate at Alfred H Knight.

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

I was looking for roles within the mining industry after graduating but was not ready to completely move abroad yet. I saw the role online when searching for a job in the mining industry. I hadn’t been aware of this role previously, which was based in Liverpool with the opportunity to travel. This suited my career goals really well, so I decided to apply!

How did you get to where you are now?

After finishing my third-year exams, I decided to go backpacking in South America for a few months. During this time, I received an invitation for an interview for my current role. I completed the interview at 4am in a hostel in Ecuador due to time differences and employer availability! This may or may not have influenced the decision to offer me a second-round interview due to my dedication to the position. I lacked relevant work experience, having only worked part time jobs in supermarkets to fund my degree, however I had spent 5 weeks in Spain completing independent fieldwork during my undergrad, which aided me with enough in field expertise.

Your favourite experience as part of your role?

My favourite experience has been constantly learning new things and experiencing new places. Since starting my graduate job 10 months ago, I have visited 6 countries and been exposed to 6 ways a single global organisation can operate, with different challenges in each location.

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

The most challenging part of my graduate journey would be the transition between full time study and full time work. It is something that takes some getting used to as somebody who loves learning and really loved their degree! However, I am extremely grateful to be working in a role where I am constantly learning and overcoming challenging new concepts.

Top 3 Tips for current students and graduates.

1. Don't stress if you receive knockback after knockback! One door can close for another to open, stay positive and things will fall into place.
2. Prepare for interviews! Turning up to an interview having done no preparation or research about the company is not the way forward. Don't waste an opportunity because of a lack of commitment.
3. Get involved with as much as you can! Any extracurricular activities, work experience opportunities or networking opportunities all add quality to you CV and give you relevant topics to talk about during interviews.

 
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