Elizabeth Evans
Course: BA Politics and Modern History
Graduated: 2008/09 Academic Year
Destination approx. 6 months after graduation: Graduate Trainee, Department of Corporate Policy and Improvement; Harrogate Borough Council
Background
I took History, Biology and English Literature at A-level and I’ve always had a personal interest in history since I was young. I later developed an interest in politics whilst I was studying for my A-levels and I felt that the two go hand in hand.
I chose this particular course because I felt it was well balanced and that it would help me to develop a wider range of skills and knowledge. I chose to come to Aberystwyth because everyone was so friendly and it felt like a place I would be happy to live in for three years as well as appealing academically. In particular, I was drawn to Aber because when I came to visit I fell in love with the place – even though it was a rather stormy day!
Where are you now?
I am currently working as a Graduate Trainee in the Department of Corporate Policy and Improvement for Harrogate Borough Council where I earn around £16,000 per annum.
I have a large variety of work but the bulk of my work is research. I am currently conducting a Scrutiny review into the affects of the current economic crisis and whether we are doing enough to help the local businesses. This includes how other councils and partner organisations are assisting businesses. After I have completed all this research I will then write a report with recommendations to Cabinet in how we can do more. My work also involves organising meetings between many different groups. I’m also involved in the business Transformation programme and improving our method for carrying out equality impact assessments as well as collecting evidence to show how we are following the Equality Framework. It’s very fast paced but I love it.
How did you get there?
From an interview point of view, my boss said she liked me not only because of my academic skills and ability to do the job, but also because I was honest about areas that I wanted to improve. This showed that I was willing to strive for self improvement.
Obviously, Aberystwyth helped me on the academic side because I developed writing skills – in a formal manner – and research skills; both of which are essential to my current job. I also developed communication skills from seminars, which is useful as I could not shy away from approaching officers at different levels of the organisation (even the Chief Executive), officers from partner organisations and the Councillors. I feel the social side of being at Aber helped me to develop as a person into a more rounded, confident individual.
On the extra-curricular side, I was part of the International Politics Society and helped to arrange the Interpol Ball. I was also on the Guild elections committee for two consecutive years. I think that, although small, these really help on the CV as the job market is so competitive at the moment that candidates need an edge to get graduate level jobs.
Where are you going?
Well, my contract ends in June so I would like to get some more work in a similar field. In the long term I still want to be affecting policy in a project based role, but further up the chain.
What advice would you give to a student doing your subject at university now?
Take every opportunity you can because otherwise you will regret it later. Do anything you can that would make you stand out to an employer. Finally, enjoy yourself, many students are only at uni 3 years maintain a good work/life balance, because both are important.