Career Day Training Equips PhD Students with Vital Skills for Job Market Transition

In an effort to prepare PhD students for a successful transition to the job market, a transformative training event known as "Career Day" was recently held on 10 February online. This comprehensive program not only facilitated insightful discussions with industry partners but also provided hands-on experience in crafting tailored CVs, writing cover letters, and mastering job interview techniques.

The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of several esteemed industry partners, including TNO, Equinor, Halliburton, TOTAL, and NGI. These industry leaders generously shared their personal experiences, career pathways, and invaluable advice for achieving success in their respective fields. Their expertise covered a wide range of topics, contributing to the holistic professional development of the attending PhD students.

To kickstart the training exercise, talks were delivered by esteemed speakers such as Sebastien Casteltort from UNIGE, along with partners Arnaud Le Bec from Omya, Graeme Nicoll from Halliburton, and Anne-Maartje Uijl-Meijman and Renaud Bouroullec from TNO. These knowledgeable individuals encouraged engaging discussions and addressed various aspects of career growth, including resume and interview preparation, work ethics, managing careers in the scientific realm, and navigating the transition between academia and industry.

A highlight of the event was the opportunity given to participating PhD students to apply for "fake" job advertisements provided by the industry partners. This exercise allowed students to practice tailoring their CVs and cover letters for specific positions. By engaging with realistic job profiles, students gained practical experience in the application process, further honing their skills for future employment opportunities.

The training exercise also simulated a real-life job interview process, during which participating students received valuable feedback from recruiters. This feedback focused on effective self-presentation, insights into the application and interview procedures, and expectations for the hiring process. Throughout the event, industry partners imparted professional tips and advice, empowering students to excel in future job applications and interviews.

Beyond skill development, the Career Day event also fostered valuable networking opportunities. PhD students had the chance to establish connections with professionals from diverse fields and companies. This networking aspect opened doors for potential collaborations, mentorship, and future career prospects, enabling students to forge meaningful relationships within their industries of interest.

The Career Day training exercise undoubtedly proved to be an enriching experience for the participating PhD students. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical insights and networking opportunities, the event equipped them with the necessary skills and confidence to embark on their career journeys successfully. As these aspiring professionals move forward, they are well-prepared to make a lasting impact in their respective fields and contribute to the advancement of science and innovation.