Build experience

Find out ways to build your experience, challenge yourself and expand your skills

While work experience including part-time work and internships is a great way to develop your skills, it’s not the only sort of experience which counts! Employers are looking for people who have a breadth of interests and skills as well as a good degree. 

Volunteering, activities outside your degree and focused programmes will all contribute to building your skills, broadening your outlook and increasing your self-awareness.  

Explore our toolkits on Careers Service Plus (UoE login required) to learn more about how to build experience.

Build Experience Toolkit

Careers Compass: Build Experience

Find out the many benefits of volunteering, how you can do it and where to look for opportunities.

Find out about the range of activities you could consider outside your degree programme.

How to find part-time and vacation jobs as a student, and information on National Insurance Number and your work rights.

Learn how to reach out to employers with a speculative application, and how to start your own business or freelance.

Take part in the Edinburgh Award to gain recognition from the University for the skills you have developed.

Learn about Employ.ed on Campus and how you can apply, including eligibility and application support.

Research opportunities to develop your skills further, and access training opportunities.

An overview of two ways to get recognition for your summer activities.

Find out what is virtual work experience and read our top tips.

Thank your interest in the Students as Change Agents (SACHA) programme. 

Advice on some of the behaviours which will help you to make an easy transition into the workplace and perform well in your role.