Aston graduates will benefit from a new internship scheme which provides paid employment at the University over the Summer and Autumn.
In response to the current economic downturn, which has seen a national reduction in graduate employment, Aston’s Executive team has decided not to take any personal salary increases this year, putting the money saved towards the newly created Aston University Graduate Internship scheme.
Professor Julia King said, ‘My colleagues and I felt strongly that it was important in these challenging times to put our graduates’ needs first. This scheme is a contribution to countering the difficult job market, as it benefits both the University and our graduates. Graduates will gain valuable work experience, while the talent and fresh ideas they bring to the University will enrich what we do, and may lead to us doing things differently – and better.’
The internships will provide Aston graduates, who have yet to find permanent jobs, with paid employment in the University for a period of up to six weeks over the Summer and Autumn. The successful applicants will help the University on specific projects, to deliver definite outcomes, for example, putting together teaching programmes in intercultural awareness for staff and students, or conducting a review of Aston’s prospectuses. The graduates will benefit from work experience which will help to build their CVs and enhance their chances of finding suitable permanent employment.
The announcement follows hot on the heels of the West Midlands Graduate Internship scheme, launched earlier this month. This scheme, funded by Advantage West Midlands, is a regional initiative which will provide at least 250 graduate placements within the next six months. Entrants onto the scheme will be able to work in organisations whilst receiving Job Seekers Allowance and training from Job Centre Plus. The scheme is managed by Graduate Advantage as an extension of their existing programme of work placements.
Words by Sally Finn
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