Summer Experience

Case Studies

Students on Summer Experience and other placements share their stories of life at the University of Bradford and their placement journey.

Who is Summer Experience for?

Any current first or second year undergraduate student of the University of Bradford (you must be returning for at least one more academic year).

You must be eligible to work full time in the UK during the vacation period. If you are an international student please check your Visa status for working during vacations, for most students studying a typical 3 or 4 year undergraduate programme you are likely to have eligibility. If you are unsure about your eligibility to work, please seek advice from the International Student Adviser and check the UK Council for International Student Affairs website.

We welcome applications from disabled students/students with dyslexia to help provide valuable work experience.  

If you have any questions about your eligibility to apply for these projects please get in touch via email: [email protected].

How does it work?

Summer Experience projects offer full-time internships with local and regional businesses, charities, and other organisations. These internships typically start between the end of May and July and require a minimum commitment of six weeks, though there may be opportunities to work longer.

What are the benefits?

1. Gain valuable work experience within a local business or enterprise.
2. Receive careers advice and support before, during, and after your placement.
3. A member of the Summer Experience team will visit you during your internship to ensure everything is running smoothly. They are also available by phone or email for any issues or queries.
4. Complete a self-reflective workbook detailing your role, learning, skills, and knowledge developed, and how the internship may help your future career plans.
5. At the end of your internship, celebration your success at our awards evening.

How do I apply?

1. Summer Experience internships will be advertised on Handshake. We add new opportunities from May to July so keep checking back.
2. Once you have selected a project, please submit your CV and cover letter to [email protected] clearly stating which position you are applying for and why. The deadline will be indicated on the job advert, and you can apply for as many Summer Experience opportunities as you like.
3. To have the best chance of getting an interview, make sure book an appointment before submitting your application.
4. We will then forward your applications to the host organisation, who will then get in touch if you are shortlisted for interview.

What types of projects have been run previously?

Previously students have worked on a variety of projects, including:

• Market research
• Business analysis
• Graphic design
• Computer programming
• Multi media
• New product development
• Process re-engineering
• Immigration advice worker
• Mental health and well-being trainee
• Sustainability and development project assistant
• Charity support assistant

...and more.