University Careers Services

Most Australian and New Zealand universities have careers centres that provide information and assistance to students and recent graduates. Many students are unaware of the range of resources available from their career service – everything from application tips and career counselling to detailed information about employers.

Drop in early
University career services are there to help, so make sure you visit in the early stages of your job hunting to take advantage of the resources provided. Remember that many application deadlines for graduate programs are in the first half of the year (for programs commencing the following year) and deadlines for work experience vary depending on the type of role you’re seeking. Plan ahead to avoid missing out on valuable opportunities.

The range of services varies between universities, but most offer print and web resources, DVDs, workshops, email updates, individual assistance and on-campus employer programs or events.

Employer information
Careers staff are well connected to the undergraduate and graduate employment sectors and regularly assist employers with recruitment. They can tell you which employers recruit applicants from your university and/or discipline and when and how they recruit. They are also up to date with the labour market, so can tell you where to seek jobs now and advise you about growth areas.

Sifting through the web
The internet is great for background research and general information about employers and industries, but your careers service can assist you in ways the wonderful web cannot. Staff can tailor the assistance they provide, recommending a course of action suitable to your discipline, ambitions, strengths and individual circumstances.

Not sure what skills you have?
Careers staff can provide you with essential job preparation advice, such as self-assessment techniques, résumé and application preparation, networking tips and interview strategies. They will also assist you to recognise the value to employers of any part-time work you have done. This applies equally to voluntary work, sporting endeavours, community involvement and participation in clubs and societies. You have more skills than you may think!

Know what you want but don’t know where to start?
Careers staff can provide targeted information on recruitment, work experience and volunteer programs and other opportunities for graduate work.

Not sure what you want to do?
If you are unsure about the direction you should take, request a one-on-one session with a careers counsellor. They can assist you in exploring your background, skills, experiences, qualities, aspirations and the rewards you seek in a work setting.

Further Resources