Sacha Ogosi - Graduate Case Study

Sacha Ogosi graduated in 2020 with a degree in Psychology and Criminology and went on to complete an MA in International Relations.  She now works as a Public Affairs Officer for The Inclusion Initiative at The London School of Economics and Political Science.

Why did you choose to study Psychology and Criminology at LJMU?

In LJMU there were a large range of modules to choose from. Being able to guide my own academic journey was really important as it would define my future career path. I had also seen before I applied that LJMU had a number of careers events that were specifically for psychology or criminology students which I found interesting.

How did you make the most of student life at LJMU?

During my time at LJMU I took advantage of every opportunity offered to me. I was part of a number of societies, travelled abroad with the university, took part in campaigns and events, internships and student jobs. I truly feel that if I had not gone to LJMU I would not be where I am today.

What are your passions, and how did they influence your desired career path?

I love helping people, adventure and meeting individuals from cultures that are different to mine. That has influenced me to strive for a career in anything related to humanitarian aid/development/ intervention or international relations/diplomacy.

How did you work out what you wanted to do after you graduated?

In university I was very proactive in trying different things and meeting a variety of people to hear about their experiences. Prior to university I thought I wanted to work in a role regarding international crime/ intelligence. However, my experience in LJMU led me to want a career where I focus on making positive direct impact rather than focusing on the darkness that is international crime.

What is your job title and/or further study details, and where do you work?

Public Affairs Officer for The Inclusion Initiative at The London School of Economics and Political Science.

For my masters, I did an MA in International Relations at Newcastle University.

What was the application process life for your current role?

My application process for my current role involved filling out an application form detailing my personal information, educational history, previous work experience, references, cover letter, hobbies and EDI information.

Following this round, I had to send a pitch video for a prospective partner as well as an email in which I would send to the partner.

Finally, I had to take part in a 45-minute interview regarding the role.

What skills and mind-set traits are important for your day-to-day role?

Communication, teamwork and motivation, analysis and research, service delivery, initiative and problem-solving, networking and liaison and flexibility.

For my role having a mindset of growth is important as the industry I work with is every changing.

Did you face any challenges as a student and what support did you access?

There was a stage where I struggled to decide what I wanted to do post university but the careers team was very helpful in giving me different options and possible paths.

What support did you receive from the Student Futures team?

• CV writing
• Cover letter writing
• Personal Statement writing
• Interview practice
• Advice on getting a job

Reflecting on your time at university, what advice would you give to your first-year self?

Life is not a straight line, stop expecting things to always work out or happen the same way for everyone. Just take each day one step at a time and take every opportunity that comes your way.

And what advice would you give to our incoming level 4 students?

Make sure you check your emails and apply for everything. University is the time you expand your horizons and try new things. Do not stand in your own way! Branch out.

Support from the Student Futures team 

If you want to talk about potential careers options with your degree, need help finding opportunities or want support with your CV, application forms or preparing for an interview, you can get advice and guidance by booking a 30-minute 1-2-1 careers meeting with a Careers and Employability Adviser from the LJMU Student Futures Team.  You can also come along to a Careers drop-in or CV Café which take place weekly at the Careers Zones for quick careers queries.

If you are thinking about starting a business, freelancing, pursuing a side-hustle or have an idea that you want to explore further, email the Start-up Hub and a member of the team will be back in touch, or visit the Start-up Hub website.

For help finding part-time, temporary or casual you can fit around your studies, email the Unitemps team or visit their website.