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The thought of what to do post-university and the lingering idea of applying for graduate schemes can feel overwhelming, particularly when deadlines arrive early and the application process seems designed to test everything at once. While most students know about national employer websites, fewer realise how much support already exists through the Guild, its close links to the University and what else is out there. This is my guide of where to start for graduate schemes.
One of the most valuable starting points is getting involved. Employers running graduate schemes consistently prioritise leadership, teamwork, communication, and initiative. These are exactly the skills developed through the Guild - whether that’s being on a society committee, serving as a course representative, or working on a student campaign. These experiences don’t just fill space on a CV; they give you concrete examples to use in application questions and assessment centres.
Whilst the Guild Advice centre is extremely useful, the Guild also works closely with University Career Zone to bring employers onto campus. The Career Zone is there to help students prepare for life and work after university, supporting CV and application advice, work experience, graduate jobs, interviews and postgraduate studies. They host free events and workshops as well as 1 on 1 appointments. The Career Zone is based in the Forum, and can be contacted via careers@exeter.ac.uk
Career fairs, skills workshops, and employer talks advertised through Guild channels often include organisations actively recruiting for graduate schemes. Attending these events gives you early insight into what employers want and sometimes access to opportunities before applications open publicly.
It’s also important to use more than one source. Alongside the Career Zone, students should explore external platforms such as Target jobs, check employer websites directly, and attend careers events to see what jobs are available. Opportunities are spread across different spaces, and relying on just one limits what you’ll see.
A common mistake is self-rejection. Many students rule themselves out because they don’t meet every requirement or feel underconfident. In reality, graduate schemes often prioritise potential, transferable skills, and reflection over perfect grades. If you meet most of the criteria, it’s usually worth applying.
Students also tend to underestimate how valuable their experience already is. Involvement in societies, volunteering, student media, representation, or campaigning develops exactly the skills graduate schemes look for. These skills include communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. Keeping a record of examples makes applications far easier.
When applying, quality matters more than quantity. A small number of tailored, well-researched applications is far more effective than dozens of rushed ones. Every application, successful or not, also builds experience with tests and interviews.
Finally, remember that graduate schemes are only one route after university. Direct graduate roles, further study, internships, or taking time out are all valid paths. The most important thing is choosing what fits you, not what you think you should be doing.