Heidi Hawkins applied for her business management degree at the University of Huddersfield because of the sandwich year component. She wanted to work in the marketing industry but hadn’t studied it as a degree subject. The year working in the industry would help her confirm if this was her career path. The application process for her sandwich placement was tedious. After countless applications and four interviews, Hawkins secured a communications role at an NHS hospital. But the effort paid off, and she now works full-time in marketing.
The sandwich degree scheme, which incorporates a year working in the industry, is popular among students because of its employability aspect. However, like Hawkins, many find the application process challenging, particularly if there are no positons available in their field of interest. Here, recruiters, graduates, and university career experts provide tips on how to secure a dream sandwich placement.
One of the key strategies is to start early. Most schemes require applications in October of the previous year, but some organizations advertise late in summer or autumn. For best results, keep an eye out for year-long roles that appear on general job sites and at career fairs. Networking is also valuable, and job seekers must follow up with personalized emails after conversations with potential contacts.
For those looking to work with niche or small firms that don’t offer formal schemes, work with the university’s career service or seek out ideas to have the best possible chance. It is critical to tailor one’s CV and cover letter for each application and find a named person to write to if possible. Students must persist and not lose hope if they have not secured a placement by Christmas, as some companies may offer unique experiences with higher responsibility levels.