What to expect
This is your appointment. You set the agenda, the pace, and are totally in control. You will also be doing most of the talking. Careers Consultants are here to facilitate your career choice and development, rather than lead it.
A Careers Consultant will try to make the picture clearer for you and help you to plan your next steps. You may not leave with all the answers – but you should be closer to finding them.
Please bring along a laptop or pen and paper to take notes as you may be directed towards resources for further research to help with your career planning.
A Careers Consultant may try to:
- Help draw out your priorities, motivations, values and expectations.
- Gently challenge your assumptions.
- Encourage you to reflect on what you have already done.
- Help you to develop your understanding of your chosen paths.
- Help you to weigh up your options.
- Make suggestions about potential resources, strategies, sectors or pathways.
- Provide answers to some straightforward questions.
A Careers Consultant cannot:
- Make a decision for you about which option/path to choose from.
- Tell you which jobs you will be suited to or what you will enjoy doing.
- Provide you with a list of employers that are recruiting.
- Tell you everything you will need to know about your chosen career.
- Tell you which employers will sponsor an international student
- Give visa advice. The International Student Support Team can provide information relating to visas and immigration.
- Tell you what to do.
If you aren't sure if we can help you, please contact Careers before booking. Our Information Team will be able to advise you on appointments and resources.
Meet the Careers Service Team
Each Faculty/School has dedicated Careers Consultant support. When you book a guidance appointment you will be offered one with the relevant Consultant for your course.
How to get the most out of your appointment
During busy periods (October-November), appointments may be limited, so preparation will help you get the most from your meeting.
Before booking: Visit the Careers & Employability Service website. It covers career planning and every stage of the application process so you may find your answer there.
If you're looking for career ideas: A Careers Consultant can help you begin exploring your options. Be aware that they will ask you to consider what you wish to prioritise at each appointment rather than covering everything at once.
Prepare, even if you don’t know what you want to do: Browse our Career Research resources for advice on career options, sector information, and research strategies. Even brief preparation helps focus your discussion and ensures you get the advice you need.