Hear from our Year in Industry Ambassador, Keisha Muzaire Muhangi, about how to maximise your chances of placement success.
I’m Keisha, a final-year Business and Management student, and I completed my Year in Industry placement at Cummins in Business Development and Sales.
Going into the placement process, I remember feeling unsure and overwhelmed, especially seeing others secure roles early on. If you’re still searching, I want to reassure you that it is absolutely not too late! There are still opportunities available, and the deadline to secure one isn’t until 19 June.
Search actively
One of the most important things is staying proactive, especially over the summer term. Make sure you are searching using a range of job platforms relevant to your degree, for example:
- What Can I Do With My Degree? These pages by the Careers and Employability Service have links to subject-specific jobs sites.
- Higherin Search for placement opportunities and filter by location, job role and company.
- Bright Network Search for placements by sector, location and employer.
LinkedIn can also be a powerful tool, not just for job searching but for understanding companies, connecting with professionals, and staying aware of opportunities. Even simply following companies you’re interested in can make a difference! You can find out more about LinkedIn on the Careers and Employability Service Moodle page.
Reach out directly
Another approach that is often overlooked is reaching out to companies directly. Smaller or local organisations may not always advertise formal placement roles but may still be open to taking on a student. This is an underrated way to uncover hidden opportunities, and the Careers and Employability Service provides guidance on how to approach this. Advisers can also check over your draft email or cover letter before you send it.
My top tips
When it comes to applications, a few things made a real difference for me.
Firstly, tailoring each application to the role rather than sending the same version repeatedly. Secondly, focusing on transferable skills from university, part-time work or projects, even if you don’t have direct experience. Finally, applying consistently and not being discouraged by rejection, as it’s a normal part of the process.
Further support
If you need additional support, I would strongly recommend booking an appointment with an adviser through the Careers Hub, checking the Year in Industry Moodle page for guidance, or contacting careerhelp@kent.ac.uk.
You’re not expected to figure this out alone!