Mature students 

Mature students make up about 13% of the student population at York and you play an important and valuable role within the university. As a mature student it is important to value your skills, experiences and abilities - and be clear how to market these effectively to employers. Like any student, you may already have some clear career ideas, or you may be coming back into education to open up new possibilities or to develop your knowledge in an area that interests you. Whatever reasons you have for coming back into study, Careers can help.

Whether you know what you want to do or need help to explore your options and research your ideas, we have the information, support and advice you need. We can also help you with applications and opportunities for part time work, internships, volunteering and skills development. Explore the rest of this website to find all our resources.  Our Getting Started with Careers information sheet outlines our services and how you can access them.

We know that age discrimination in graduate recruitment is one thing that you may be concerned about. The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 prohibit discrimination, harassment and victimisation against a person on grounds of age in relation to employment and vocational training.  Even employers who ask job applicants for their date of birth could be in breach of the law. 

However despite the legislation, in reality, it may be that some employers will have concerns over recruiting an older graduate. It is your challenge to focus on the positives from your life and work experience.

It is important to be clear about what makes you right for the role you are applying for, and to understand your strengths and abilities. Researching the position carefully and knowing how your skills and experience relate to it is essential. But it is not just a case of knowing - you also need to be able to convince an employer - so a strong CV or application form that really markets you well is essential.  And if you've not had an interview for a while, we would encourage you to take the opportunity to develop strong interview skills.

 Things to consider

  • Our information sheet for mature students has got lots of useful information and links to other helpful online resources‌
  • The resources on this website can help you to look for work or to explore your options Work, volunteering and career planning
  • It's a good time to start thinking about what experience and skills you already have - if you have been out of the paid work environment for some time, think about the life skills you have gained and how they could support your job applications, such as strong organisational skills, time management, communication etc.

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  • Do you need to develop new skills or gain experience in a new career area? Check out our skills courses, volunteering and work opportunities Work, volunteering and career planning
  • Our termly workshops and information sessions  will help you prepare effective CVs, covering letters and application forms that sell your experience and skills positively.  You can also access our new CV Guide on the VLE
  • Book an appointment through the Interactive Careers Service to get your CV/application form reviewed 
  • If you need any help finding the information you need or accessing any of our services you can talk to a member of the Information Team any time - just drop into Careers or ring 01904 322685.

 

Useful websites

Mature student, © 2010 john houlihan / witness.co.uk | johnhoulihan.com

Useful links

Contact us

Careers
Mon-Fri 10am-5pm
Telephone: 01904 322685
Email: via the Interactive Careers Service

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