Working at university after graduation

Have you just finished your degree and are about to start your job search? Are you not interested in further studies but have mixed feelings about leaving academia? Maybe you should consider applying for a job at a university.

Benefits

The benefits of working for a university include a good salary and generous pension scheme. Although the pay may not be as high as in a private sector, universities offer great development opportunities for their staff by providing free IT classes and learning vouchers.

As you are a member of the university, you keep your access to the Students’ Union and the library, and you receive staff discounts for the Sports Centre. You can also travel to and from university at a lower rate by showing your university card to the bus driver. It is a little bit like being a student again, but with more responsibilities and a pay to take home.

Is it a good choice?

Employment with a university is convenient for those who prefer regular working patterns. Most full-time admin jobs have set hours, and universities offer generous holiday allowance with short Christmas and Easter breaks.

Once you have started working for a university, it is easier to systematically climb up the university’s career grades. The university puts much emphasis on utilising skills and knowledge of its staff by offering internal vacancies and secondment opportunities.

It is important to bear in mind that academia is a specific type of business with its own rules and regulations. Universities are normally willing to have employees from different backgrounds and expertise, but private companies may be more skeptical about employing someone with experience in higher education only. It is good to be flexible and try your hand at both areas.

My own experience

After graduating from Leeds, I stayed at the University to work as an administrative assistant, and I am currently employed at the University of Warwick.

During my time at Warwick I have completed a number of self-development and IT courses, and I have developed web management skills. I have also become more business aware and have built a set of networks with various internal and external organisations.

I would recommend work for the university to anybody who hesitates about their career path. It is a great way of learning new skills and gaining practical work experience.

Would you consider working at a university after you graduate? Let us know in the comments below.

Photo: Andrew Schwegler / Flickr

Edyta Wanic

Media & Communications graduate and freelance journalist.