Five reasons to take part in Capital Connections

Colette Foster has recently finished her second year at Lancaster University, studying French and Geography. She is looking forward to studying abroad next year as part of her degree, in Bordeaux, France. Colette is interested in working in the public sector as well as roles focusing on sustainability, and is keen to gain work experience in the industry.

"Hello! I’m Colette, a second year French Studies and Geography student. This year I had the privilege of participating in Capital Connections, organised by the GROW Your Future team at Lancaster University. I gained a lot from this two-day experience and would recommend it to everyone! Here are my top five reasons why I think you should apply for next year’s Capital Connections.?

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1 - Meet a variety of employers?

With a jam-packed and varied schedule of employers, there is something for everyone with Capital Connections. During this trip to London, we visited the UK Civil Service Government Digital department, Unilever, and the Omnicom Health Group. Regardless of whether you’re drawn to these companies, I’d recommend going in with an open mind as often there are job roles that will appeal to your interests and expertise. As you visit the employers’ offices, you can get a feel for the working environment, and it will help you gauge whether you can see yourself working there in a few years’ time.?

2 - Grow your network and practice your networking skills?

The alumni networking evening on the first day is a brilliant way to connect with Lancaster University graduates. Speaking to alumni individually means you can ask the questions you want answers to, such as how they found the transition from the small city of Lancaster to the capital, or how they got from their degree to their current role. The networking evening may seem like a daunting experience, but everyone is really friendly and you’ll be rewarded for putting yourself out there- meeting people from all walks of life and in job roles you didn’t know existed!

3 - Experience the big city?

This is certainly an attraction of the Capital Connections trip. Based in London, you’ll be taking the tube and walking past many iconic landmarks. With skyscrapers towering above your head, you’ll really get a feel for what it’s like to live in the big city. The offices we visit are also in high-up buildings, giving you a fantastic view of the London skyline. As well as this, you get a few hours of free time to explore the city, so make sure make the most of it!?

4 - Improve your job application technique?

The Capital Connections programme is a great way to hone your job application skills. With the online interview application, you can practice your interview skills and get automatically-generated feedback on your answers, ranging from eye contact to speech speed. The GROW Your Future team also run workshops leading up to the trip, such as working on your LinkedIn profile and practicing your networking skills.?

5 - Talk to employees?

A major benefit of visiting the employers’ offices in person is speaking to the employees themselves. You can learn so much more from the people actually working for the company than just their website. One thing I found really interesting from speaking to employees is how varied their education and career paths were to reaching their current role. Everyone is really friendly and will offer their advice on the company’s application process or give an insight of what a day-in-the-life looks like at their work.??

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Overall, I’d thoroughly recommend the Capital Connections trip. I have learnt a lot about what jobs are out there, whether they suit me, and London life. If you have any questions or want to know.

Capital Connections happens during the Easter Vacation period. You can register your interest in attending here - https://lancasteruni.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9QSzwiZfRrLworc