University shortlisted for national awards in student career support

The University of Suffolk has been shortlisted for two national awards in the space of a week in recognition of careers and work placement support for students.

The University is one of just five universities to be shortlisted for the WhatUni Student Choice Award (WUSCA) in the submission-based category, the theme of which is Career Coaching and Work Placements this year.

It follows a nomination for the WUSCAs last week in the Student Prospects Category in the review-based category, which was the second year in succession the University reached the top 10 nationally in career prospects.

The finalists are selected by student reviews and compiled by the student judges, who consider the shortlisted entries to deliver outstanding student experiences in preparing learners for life after graduation. The submission-based category is the only award entered directly by universities and judged by a student panel.

The University will find out if it has won at the awards evening on 24 April.

Amy Carpenter, Associate Director Careers, Employability and Enterprise at the University of Suffolk said: “The University has undergone many changes to enhance the careers support on offer to our students in the last two years following a large investment, including bringing in additional specialist consultants, opening the Enterprise and Careers Zone, and launching a range of new partnership and initiatives.

“It’s so fantastic to see these positive changes are being so well received by the people at the centre of it all, namely our students. 

“Ensuring our students are given outstanding opportunities to develop their employability and entrepreneurial skills is a key feature to University of Suffolk degrees, and we are so proud that we have been shortlisted for two awards in careers and employability.

The WUSCAs cover all aspects of university life including lectures, accommodation, facilities, and student support services, which are based entirely on student feedback and reviews.

The University of Suffolk plays an important role in the economic growth in the region and is committed to building strong relationships with businesses and employers. Students studying a range of subjects from health and science courses to business and computing, benefit from specialist skills development, work-based learning and industry specific placements.

All students can access support from the Careers, Employability, and Enterprise team within the University to help identify individual opportunities. This support includes accessing placements, job opportunities, skills development such as interview preparation, and funding opportunities.

Elliot Martin is a second year BSc Computing student and has benefitted from some of the dedicated career and employability provision.

He said: “The support I’ve received from the careers team has been amazing since day one. Since starting my degree, I’ve had great success with participating in the micro-placement scheme offered here, which provides real-life temporary work placements throughout the year.

“I’ve had practice with interviews, used helpful online tools to craft my CV and cover letters, and ultimately increased so much in confidence when it comes to applying for jobs and work opportunities. I can’t thank the team enough.”