Erin Walsh - Graduate Scheme and Internship Case Study
In the video above, final year Criminology and Sociology student Erin Walsh, who graduates in 2025, tells us about her time at LJMU, the work experience she undertook, and about the graduate role she has just secured on the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme (GMTS) as a HR Trainee.
In the written case study below, she gives more details about a summer internship she completed as a Human Resources Intern within the Colleague Experience Team at Coventry Building Society.
Why did you want to do an internship?
During my first two years at university, I struggled to identify my career interests or envision a clear path for life after graduation. Recognising this, I decided that securing a summer internship before my final year would be invaluable. Not only would it strengthen my CV, but it would also provide valuable insights into potential career paths, expand my professional network, and give me a competitive edge as I entered my final year of university. I found the internship on Indeed.
Describe the role you are undertaking and your main duties:
As an HR intern within the Colleague Experience Team, I had the opportunity to contribute to initiatives centred around diversity, inclusion, wellbeing, and employee engagement. This role aligned seamlessly with the sociology aspect of my degree, enabling me to apply my sociological knowledge to drive positive change within the organisation. My responsibilities included redesigning the Engagement and Wellbeing Champion Programme, planning and facilitating a People Function insight afternoon, and supporting the company’s journey to becoming a Disability Confident Committed employer. Additionally, I collaborated with the Talent team to develop a graduate roadmap for the upcoming cohort and presented to ‘STAR students,’ providing them with valuable insights into internship opportunities.
What did the application and selection process involve, and how did you prepare for each stage?
The application and selection process offered valuable insights. Below is a step-by-step guide:
- Step 1: Online Application
To prepare for this stage, I dedicated focused time in a quiet space, ensuring my responses were genuine and aligned with the values of Coventry Building Society. - Step 2: Telephone Interview
This stage involved answering further questions about my strengths and motivations for applying. I maximised my preparation by taking detailed notes and conducting thorough research. The telephone format allowed me to leverage my notes effectively during the conversation. - Step 3: Assessment Centre
The assessment centre featured a competency-based interview and a presentation. Beforehand, I received a preparation list and was tasked with presenting initiatives to enhance employee well-being, using provided data and without incurring costs. I submitted this presentation 24 hours in advance. Careful preparation was crucial, and I set aside ample time in the weeks leading up to the assessment. - Step 4: Onboarding Process
The onboarding process was swift and efficient. I promptly signed my contracts and submitted the necessary documents to prevent any delays in my start date.
What help and support did you access from the Student Futures team?
The Student Futures team played a crucial role in helping me secure this job. I reached out to Careers and Employability Consultant Hayley Fallen to discuss the role I was applying for, and she was incredibly responsive, answering my questions and assisting with my preparation. When I reached the assessment centre stage, we had an online meeting where Hayley reviewed my presentation and shared valuable tips for success in both presenting and navigating the assessment centre.
I highly recommend reaching out to the Student Futures team for any advice during your application process or for guidance on finding internships, placements, or voluntary work. They are consistently quick, efficient, and enthusiastic about helping students. Since my internship, I have continued to seek their support for graduate scheme applications and mock interviews.
What relevant work experience, skills, volunteering or Student Union activities did you use during the selection process?
During the selection process, I highlighted my role as a student representative at LJMU, as well as my status as an Opportunity Scholar, which recognises my dedication to volunteering. In my first year, I also played for the LJMU table tennis team, an experience I was proud to discuss alongside my previous work in retail, office administration, and waitressing. The skills I highlighted were empathy, communication and adaptability (all skills which I have used throughout my degree).
What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability?
I encourage students to actively seek out opportunities, as any experience can be invaluable. Take advantage of your time at university to enhance your CV and expand your network. To boost your employability, ensure your CV is current (consider utilising resources like the CV Café for assistance). Joining sports teams or societies not only enriches your university experience but also adds credibility to your CV. Additionally, leverage LinkedIn to showcase your achievements and academic pursuits.
Would you do anything differently in terms of your employability if you were a first-year student again?
If I could approach my employability journey differently as a first-year student, I would prioritise volunteering, as the workload is lighter and allows for more flexibility. Additionally, I would seek out an internship during my studies or over the summer between my first and second years. I also wish I had created my LinkedIn account in my first year and begun leveraging this platform to enhance my professional presence.
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.