Joe Alvarez Student, Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Chester
Joe is currently studying MSc Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Chester, with a particular interest in gastroenterology, especially allergies. he is passionate about Paediatrics and hopes to work in an acute setting in London after completing his course.
Searching for a new job can be a long-winded process for new graduates. CVs, covering letters and applications can be time-consuming. How can nutrition and dietetic students increase their chances of getting an interview and hopefully securing an ideal job?
Nowadays, a degree is not enough to get that job you’ve been searching so long for. Employers are increasingly looking for alternative experiences andskills that applicants can bring to the table. But how and where can you findand obtain these allso important extra-curricular experiences?
Employers are increasingly looking for alternative experiences and skills
There aremany ways to do this without taking up too much of your precious study time and still allow time
This could be volunteering in your local care home, working at summer schools at university (or elsewhere), and with any part time job you will be developing transferable skills such as communication and organisation skills that will be vital in your graduate career.
Soup kitchens, school nutrition/cookery workshops, cook and eat sessions, local breastfeeding support groups, weight loss groups.
These are some examples of nutrition or food related projects however, any community projects that you help with you will be developing skills that can help with your applications for jobs.
Write for a magazine like NHD - this shows your ability to communicate with other health professionals or the public and get involved in current debates. It is also a great way to show your ability to Continue Professional Development.
The British Dietetic Association, British Nutrition Foundation and other organisations offer these sessions regularly. Your university may also have external speakers coming into give talks about their specialist areas. Try and attend as many of these as you can to show your dedication to learning the most up-to-date research.
These are also great networking opportunities where you can meet others who are in the industry. Sign up to foodor nutrition companies to receive emails abouttheir events (many of them are free to attend).
Network!
Attending events like the ones discussed above but also, get active on social media, create a professional account and make yourself known!
Continue professional development
Read articles, keep up to date with the latest research, sign up to magazines or join relevant organisations to make sure you stay in the loop!
These are just some examples of ways in which you can build your skills and experience. These experiences will give you plenty to talk about in your applications and interviews and are a great way to show how passionate you are about your career. For further information contact your University Careers Service who will be able to help with CV writing and applications, as well as finding part-time jobs or volunteering opportunities. Good luck!
