UCB students develop a global mind-set

UCB students are gearing up to enhance their skills as global graduates following a meeting with employers. 

A group from the University attended the Midlands International Group’s (MIG) “Develop your Global Career” event at the University of Birmingham. The students were welcomed by employers, organisations and specialist international careers advisers from throughout the Midlands. 

Employers used a Q&A panel session to discuss ideas on developing a global mind-set and giving students the opportunity to showcase their international experience. 

Students attended a range of workshops to learn what makes a global graduate, and reflected on their skills and experiences in order to match the requirements of employers. Workshops were also provided on the different visa routes, plus government initiatives, that allow students and graduates to stay on and work in the UK on completion of their studies. 

Zhilin Li, who is studying MA International Hospitality Management at UCB, said: “The helpful workshops gave us an overview of the crucial abilities needed for an international career. The importance of teamwork was highlighted as well as language and communication skills. 

“As an international student, I realise that the initial thing that I need to do is connect with more people from other countries and practise my cross-cultural communications.” 

Students were encouraged to develop their LinkedIn profiles and maintain a level of engagement with professional circles online. CPA Australia provided a professional photographer and photo booth for students to have a professional photograph taken for their profiles. Students can connect with University College Birmingham on LinkedIn and follow our latest updates by clicking here. 

The event was hailed a huge success due to the collaborative efforts of the international careers advisors who form the Midlands International Group. UCB’s Careers and Employability Advisor Helen Hook represented the University, contributing to the marketing and logistics for the event. 

Helen said: “Being an active member of the Midlands International Group has been, and will continue to be, a fantastic asset to not only UCB’s international student body, but also any EU and home students who are keen on developing a global mind-set. 

“Collaborating with the East and West Midlands universities has allowed group members to share best practice and work together in order to host such successful events for all of our students to take advantage of. Next year, the group intends to host more internationally-themed events.” 

If you have any questions linking to international employability and careers advice, please do not hesitate to contact Helen Hook on h.hook@ucb.ac.uk. To view the “Develop your Global Career” programme, please click here.