Safiye Hussein graduated in 2023 with a BSc in Psychology, and while studying towards her degree, she worked as a Student Research Assistant as part of the Summer Vacation Research Competition (through the Work-Study Scheme, now called Empower), supporting researchers on the projects “What about my skin?” (looking at the lack of representation of people of colour within medical guidelines) and on “Public health infographics”. These opportunities opened up her career options and solidified her interest in a career in public health.
As a mature student with children and caring responsibilities, and falling pregnant in her final year, Safiye navigated a busy home life alongside her university experience. She credits the Careers and Employability Service (CES) for supporting her –
“I met with different members of the CES team on different occasions and for various different things, and was so thankful for the guidance and support they gave me, both with my academic research and with career help. They were all amazing but one that stood out was an Employability Points appointment, where the adviser really listened to me, and advised me on which internship best matched my skillset. I was encouraged to describe the relevant skills I had developed, how these relate to the job description, and was coached on the interview process. I was so please to be successful and did a 3-month internship at Medway Council, working in Public Health, funded by the NIHR and providing capacity and capability for other council departments to contribute to research linked with wider determinants.
My experience working as a Student Research Assistant at the University of Kent (through Empower) gave me great examples to use at interview, and I was able to share how enthusiastic I am about public health, and relate my personal experiences to the role, which I learnt how to do with support from the Empower team. I also developed self-confidence at a time when I didn’t feel my best – six months pregnant, mid-exams and going for interviews!
I have since been offered the chance to interview for a permanent role at Medway Council, once I return from maternity leave.”
Safiye’s advice for current students –
“Put yourself out there and get involved in the opportunities at the University of Kent! Use the Careers and Employability Service, and make contacts across the university for help with essays, and to find out about different career options. Don’t be afraid to be confident in yourself, but ask for help when you need it. You’ve got nothing to lose, but lots to gain!”