Making connections
Employability is taking centre stage throughout November, as the University launches its Professional Networking Programme in London. Over 250 alumni have attended the first two events, and more than 1,000 alumni have signed up to one of the networks. The networks are underpinned by the new website dedicated to York alumni: www.yorkspace.net.
The final event will take place on 28 November and will bring together alumni working in Finance, Management and Law. PricewaterhouseCoopers have sponsored the event, and guests will be hosted at their offices at Embankment Place. Over 150 business leaders are attending and, as part of the evening, three student teams will present their solution to a corporate crisis (with alumni deciding on the winning pitch). The students will spend the day working with Clarence Mitchell, best known as spokesperson for the McCann family, and former Director of the Conservative Party's Election Media Unit.
Alumni have an exciting opportunity to benefit from connecting with one another and, in turn, we hope they will be encouraged to offer support to current students
Greg Dyke
The first of the three launches was aimed at alumni working in the Third Sector, and took place on 14 November at the The King’s Place. Postgraduate students showcased their research in relevant areas, and alumni were encouraged to explore how research projects at the University can add value to their organisations. Senior alumni attended from a range of leading organisations including Scope, The Child Poverty Action Group, and Amnesty International.
This opening event was followed by an evening at BAFTA on 22 November for alumni working in media, journalism and PR. The event was hosted by Greg Dyke, Denise O’Donoghue (ITV), Caroline Thomson (BBC) and Steve Richards (The Independent). Industry leaders from some of the world’s most exciting companies networked with younger alumni, alongside reporters from the student newspapers, Nouse and Vision. University Radio York and York Student TV also broadcasted live from the event.
In competitive job markets, professional networks provide valuable connections and opportunities. The new programme provides networking activities designed to connect York alumni with one another, and with current students. The initiative focuses on specific professions and comprises planned activities (eg events, presentations and podcasts) and informal connections (eg one-to-one meetings, email exchanges and discussion forums).
Through the network programme, senior alumni can play a leading role in supporting the career progression of alumni, and access a range of talented York graduates. Younger alumni can benefit from the expertise, advice and support of more experienced graduates, and current students can advantage from networking with graduates in the early stages of their career.
Nik Miller, who has initiated the programme in partnership with colleagues in the Careers Service said “a focused professional network is a great way to boost your career prospects, and we are making it easier for alumni and current students to access new opportunities, advice and practical support.” Chancellor Greg Dyke added, “Alumni have an exciting opportunity to benefit from connecting with one another and, in turn, we hope they will be encouraged to offer support to current students.”
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