Name: Alison Eadie
Studied: MSC Mathematics
University: St Andrews
Role: Software Support Analyst
Q. In what ways have you benefited from attending University?
A. Throughout my time at university I learned a lot about myself and became a more independent and rounded individual. I developed both socially and academically and am now more able to adapt to face different challenges in my work and life. University isn't just about gaining your degree - of course employers are looking for evidence that you can work effectively, but they also want to know that you are capable to taking on responsibility and that you will work effectively in a team with other members of their workforce. Prior to university I may have been able to prove my ability to learn and to work, but I did not have the maturity and independence to become a valuable employee. These are skills I learned through my time at university.
Q. How did the skills and attributes you gained from your degree help you find work?
A. Through studying mathematics I developed my ability to analyse situations and to regard problems in a methodical and logical manner. This ability is desirable to employers as it can be adapted to situations which arise in many different jobs. I also learned how to describe difficult concepts to others and how to present my work in a clear, easily understood manner. Another important skill I learned through my degree is that of effectively prioritizing my work. During my degree I was often faced with conflicting deadlines and I needed to learn how to manage my time in order that the work was done to the best of my ability. Whatever degree you do, you will find you have learned important skills and developed attributes which will give you the edge over other potential candidates.
Q. What other work experience or courses did you partake in to improve/add to your CV during university?
A. During term time, I participated in a number of sporting activities and was a member of various clubs. On my CV these show my commitment and responsibility. The clubs were also a great way of meeting new people and improving my networking skills. During the summer break between my 2nd and 3rd year I worked as a team member on the front counter at KFC. This gave me experience in dealing with members of the public in a busy, fast paced environment. It also taught me the importance of working together in a team and gave me experience in the responsibility of handling money.
In the summer following my penultimate year I participated in a Summer Research School in the Department of Mathematics. This involved working in a small group to explore a number of mathematical problems and presenting the results for the various funding bodies. Through this I improved both my oral and my written communication as well as my research skills and time management.
Q. What advice would you give to undergraduates searching for work?
A. It is important to thoroughly research your chosen career path and to examine your strengths and weaknesses with regards to this field. Have a look at the various magazines and websites aimed at job searchers in order to ensure you are not falling into the common job-hunting pitfalls. Leave plenty of time for filling in application forms and make sure you keep a copy of your completed applications - this is useful not only to look over when you come to interview stage, but also it allows you to adapt your answers for future application forms and thus save yourself a lot of time and effort. Before sending away the first few CVs and application forms, have them checked over by a member of the careers service. This will ensure you are presenting yourself in the best possible manner and giving yourself the best chance of success.
Q. How did The Graduate Recruitment Bureau help you in the process of looking for work?
A. I found GRB very helpful in my search for work. They took a record of what type of jobs I was interested in and sent me e-mails of relevant job suggestions. Whenever I decided to follow up a job I was given the information I required about the company and they were happy to act as an intermediary with the company in order to negotiate details such as travel expenses. The recruitment consultant concerned contacted me both before and after my interview in order to give me last minute tips and to discuss my performance and thoughts on the company. This gave me the opportunity to talk over any issues I had in order that they might be resolved. I was able to discuss my options with GRB in the same way as I could with friends and relatives with the advantages that GRB knew the job market and the current recruitment processes.
