The Mistake Most Students Make
Many students treat their first year at university as a warm-up. They focus on settling in, exploring their campus, and enjoying their freedom. While these things matter, delaying your career planning until your final year is one of the biggest mistakes you can make — especially if you’re studying abroad.
Why This Is Critical for International Students
For students in many countries, a bachelor’s degree can take four or even five years to complete. For example, in Egypt, a technical degree like Cyber Security might span up to five years.
But in the UK, most undergraduate degrees are only three years. At UWS London, the BEng Cyber Security is a three-year programme — meaning you have a shorter runway to prepare for internships, networking, and post-study work opportunities.
This compressed timeline means your first year is already 33% of your degree. If you spend it without laying a career foundation, you’ll find yourself scrambling to catch up later.
The First-Year Advantage
Starting early allows you to:
- Build your professional network before you need it.
- Gain industry-relevant experience through part-time jobs or internships.
- Identify the right career path while you still have time to adjust your course selection.
- Understand visa and work permit requirements well in advance.
- Make informed choices about post-study work opportunities.
Linking First-Year Effort to Post-Study Success
For international students, the UK’s Graduate Route now gives you 18 months of post-study work rights. The students who make the most of this period are usually those who already have internships, projects, and relevant experience before they graduate.
If you start your career planning in Year 1:
- By Year 2, you can secure internships aligned to your career goals.
- By Year 3, you’ll already have a strong CV and employer connections — making it easier to transition into a work permit role.
Practical Steps for First-Year Career Planning
- Join Career Clubs & Societies Early
At UWS London, platforms like the TEG Club help you meet peers, alumni, and potential employers. - Meet Your Career Services Team
Book your first appointment within the first few months. Don’t wait until you’re graduating. - Attend Employer Networking Events
These are often open to all years — start attending in Year 1 so employers recognise your name later. - Target Small Internships and Projects
Even unpaid or short-term roles in your first year help you build your professional story. - Keep Learning Outside Your Degree
Add certifications in areas like AI, cybersecurity, project management, or digital marketing alongside your coursework.
Why UWS London Students Have an Edge
With its industry-linked courses, up to 40% bursary for eligible students, and career-focused environment, UWS London gives international students the tools to start early.
Whether you’re in BEng Cyber Security, BSc Data Science & AI, or MBA in Luxury Branding, you can use your first year to build the network, skills, and experience that will make you job-ready by graduation.
FAQs
1. Isn’t my first year too early to think about jobs?
Not if you want to be ahead of 90% of your peers. Starting early builds momentum.
2. What if I’m still unsure about my career path?
Your first year is the best time to explore options without pressure.
3. How do I get internships in Year 1?
Look for short-term, project-based, or volunteer roles related to your field.
4. Why is this more important for international students?
Because UK degrees are shorter, and your post-study work visa period is limited to 18 months.
5. Can I change my career focus later?
Yes — but early preparation means you’ll still have relevant experience to show employers.
