The engagement session featured a ‘speed networking’ style activity, where students actively sought information about the organisations’ environmental activities, current and future trends, key skills in demand, and the personal experiences of the speakers. This dynamic setup allowed students to gain firsthand insights and practical knowledge directly from professionals on similar career paths.

Kudos to the students for making the most of the experience, and a big thank you to all the employers who contributed their time and insights! Such experiences are instrumental in shaping future career paths and igniting inspiration among students. There’s truly no better way to prepare for future careers than by learning from those already thriving in the industry!

We can't wait to host more sessions in the future - please get in touch if you'd like to take part!

It was a pleasure to engage with secondary level science teachers, careers teachers, and careers advisors from across Northern Ireland today. We had the opportunity to showcase the extensive array of subjects and career paths available through the School of Biological Sciences. Here are some key takeaways from our session:

- Diverse Career Options: Our degree pathways offer a wide range of career opportunities beyond traditional lab and research roles. Many attendees found it enlightening to discover the breadth of careers accessible to our graduates.
- Integration of Math and Technology: The role of math and technology in both studies and careers within biological sciences. It's important to note that while these subjects may seem challenging in school, their application in higher education and professional settings is quite different, and students should not be deterred by their school experiences.
- Advice from Students and Alumni: Our panel shared valuable advice for their A Level selves: ask questions, seize opportunities, pursue your passions, and don't stress about having your career path figured out by age 16.

These interactions are vital for maintaining the strong connection between students, teachers, careers advisors, and universities. By working together, we can support students in making well-informed and significant decisions regarding their studies and future careers. These connections are essential for fostering a collaborative environment that benefits everyone involved.

Thanks to our wonderful panel for supporting!

What better way to develop as a student than having an experienced mentor guiding you!

Over the years we have recognised the importance of students having access to industry professionals.  This access to experienced mentors has supported students to learn about career options, developing and building skills, confidence and building a network of connections to support students on their career journey.

We have successfully matched 22 students across our undergraduate and postgraduate programmes to mentors from broad areas of:

• Consultancy
• Research
• Conservation
• Food Science
• Environmental Agencies
• Health Science 
• Business Management
• Governance

The mentoring allows each mentor and mentee to discuss and agree aims and goals from the programme and plan out best ways to reach these.  This could include:

• Career Development
• Presentations and Public Speaking
• Business Start-Up
• Building Networks
• Recruitment and Training
• Increasing Career and Business Confidence
• Resilience
• Problem Solving
• Someone to Support and Sounding Board
• Organisation and Planning
• Profile and Visibility
• Interviews and Pitches

THANK YOU - to our mentors for volunteering your time and resources to support mentees.

WELL DONE - to our mentees for putting yourself out there, utilising the great resources of your mentor and investing time in your own development!