BA Politics and Sociology, 2024
Nuclear Business Graduate Scheme at Sizewell C
My name is Mohammed Alom, and I studied at the University of Birmingham for four brilliant years (2020-2024), and I am currently on a Nuclear Business Graduate Scheme for Sizewell C. This is a company/project initially brought forward, and majority funded by EDF Energy to build a new nuclear power station in the east coast of Britain. But, over the last couple of years we have been in an ongoing process to becoming a separate entity, with government investment making HMG the majority shareholders. Interestingly, this project is rotational across different corporate departments at Sizewell C, and so far, it has been really encouraging for my career growth.
I graduated in the summer of 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in politics and Sociology, however my first year at university (post covid outbreak) I did Sports Science. Eventually, I switched courses due to different career aspirations and interests, and this where politics took centre stage (I did both A-level Politics and Sociology). Naturally, this made sense to myself despite the year set-back, I was motivated to make this a success. Over the next 3 years, I endured the struggles, doubt, and confusion but rewarded with the ultimate success in graduating from a Russell Group University. Coupled with my graduate scheme being secured in my final year, the university had set me on a pedestal I did not think would be possible this early in my career.
Importantly, during my third year I set a precedence to gain valuable experience that would boost my CV and job aspirations, and this is where I encountered an opportunity from Go Global in Saint Lucia. Go Global is a university initiative aimed at providing students with the opportunity to participate in work experience abroad! My time in Saint Lucia was incredible as I participated in a political work experience over four weeks and met interesting individuals within their political space– A bonus was also enjoying the beautiful beaches on the Island as well. This experience was beneficial to my early career as it was something I would articulate during interviews for roles, highlighting the transferrable skills I have gained from that experience.
Moreover, I had experience as part of the societies in university, helping my social and event-planning skills. This included being a committee member for the Bengali society for almost two years and a committee member in my second year for the 93% club. These experiences, especially my time as part of the Bengali society, were some of the best times I have had at the University of Birmingham and went a long way in solidifying my experience in job applications.
Furthermore, during my final year I took the opportunity for coaching provided by the UoB Careers Network. At first, I was unsure of what to expect, however Nicki Hamilton (my coach) was remarkably easy to speak to and pivotal to my success during final year in which I not only graduated, but also earnt a graduate scheme job! I am forever grateful to Nicki who helped my confidence and standardised my ambitions into carefully set achievable goals, and without this support my situation could have turned out differently.
Lastly, I would like to recommend current students at the university to make the most of the time they have available – efficiency is crucial. Apply for the internships, network with key individuals involved with your future career aspirations and make yourself employable. Also enjoy yourself and join societies you have a close affinity to as it could go a long way, especially in your CV! The harsh truth is you will not get where you aspire without going above and beyond, and thankfully the university is in the best place to provide those resources as one of the top universities targeted by employers!