Swansea University is in the top 20 in the UK for graduate job prospects, according to the Times Good University Guide 2014, published recently.  The Fair is one of the principal ways in which the University supports students as they look to break into the job market and improve their employability.

Over 50 organisations from all sectors will be at the Fair, including the NHS, the forces and universities, and some of the major names in business, such as PwC and Tata Steel.   This year, for the first time, the Bank of England is attending.

The Fair is open to students from across the University.  Students will be able to get expert advice on things like writing a good CV, from the University’s Careers and Employability team.  

Picture:  Jennie Drewson, careers adviser (left) advising a student

Almost 2000 students attended last year’s event, in just 5 hours, and the Swansea team are expecting just as much interest this year, as students prepare to enter a tough job market.


Pauline McDonald, head of careers and employability at Swansea University, said:

“The careers fair is a great chance for students to chat to lots of employers all in one place.  We have organisations from retail, banking, entrepreneurship, volunteering,  government and many more.”
 
“Finding out about all the opportunities available – in the UK and overseas - is really important.  Plus we are able to offer practical tips like help with CVs.”
 
“It’s all part of our effort to improve our students’ employability, and give them as much support as possible, especially in these tough times.”

Picture: the 2012 Fair, which attracted around 2000 students.
 
The Fair is run in partnership with PwC, which is the largest professional services organisation in the UK, and which will have a team at the event.

Alex Spaven, PwC’s student recruitment manager for Wales and the West, explained what they are looking for:
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"We’re interested in talented students applying to us with a strong academic record but just as important are their employability skills – including impact, drive, flexibility, curiosity, integrity and commercial awareness."

“As a leading employer of graduates, we recognise the important role played by the Careers and Employability fair at Swansea University in producing high-calibre, motivated individuals who are ready to enter the world of professional services."

Salma El Hankouri (pictured), who is studying Arts & Humanities, attended last year’s Fair and will be there again this year.  She said:

"I had the opportunity to chat with many big companies from all over the UK. It gives us the chance to find the best career fit, become familiar with recruitment processes, improve our CV and learn many useful tips for interviews."

"Last year, within a single day, I gathered so much information.  I’m looking forward to meeting more companies this year and make the most out of it again."

The Fair takes place on Thursday 3 October from 10am until 3pm.  It is open to all Swansea University students.   The venue is Café West and Fulton Refectory, Fulton House, Swansea University 

Swansea University Careers and Employability Fair, in association with

‌For more information on PwC go to www.pwc.co.uk/careers