Each week, we interview someone from around Adelaide who might be helpful during your time as an international student. This week’s guest:

Melanie Spandrio, Careers Education Officer
Careers Service

What sorts of things can the Careers Service help out with?
We help students with everything from making sure they are studying the right degree, through to applying for and securing a job they love. We offer many workshops and events throughout the year to give students opportunities to develop the skills, knowledge and mindset needed for success.

What’s important to keep in mind when considering a career?
You’re not committing to one career for the rest of your life. I think sometimes students put too much pressure on themselves when it comes to their career because it can feel like a lifelong commitment. For some people it can be, but for most, your career will be something that evolves over time.

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Pursue the things you are very interested in. Employers love to hear from students who are genuinely motivated and engaged with what they are doing.

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What sorts of things can students do while they’re still at uni to make themselves more attractive to employers?
Get involved! Employers love to see students who are doing their best with their studies, but who also lead active, engaged lives. This can include casual work, hobbies, extracurricular activities and personal projects. It’s also important to keep an eye on CareerHub. We post job openings and events on CareerHub, so check in frequently to make sure you don’t miss out on great opportunities.

At what point in their studies should students be thinking about their career?
From day one at university. It’s never too early to start thinking about and taking action towards your career goals. I find the most successful students are the ones that are proactive when it comes to building their career from early on in their studies.

How important is a CV when applying for a job?
It’s essential. We offer Resume Writing Workshops very frequently to help you out with your CV, so check out CareerHub Events for upcoming session times.

How do you distinguish yourself from other students in the job market?
Pursue the things you are very interested in. This can include internships, projects, volunteering, courses, and extracurricular activities. Employers love to hear from students who are genuinely motivated and engaged with what they are doing.

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Read more about the Careers Service on their website.