Amir Ibrahim

Why did you apply to the University and why did you choose that course?

The reason I applied to University of Bradford was because I always wanted to get into cyber security, which the university offers. I have enjoyed this industry since childhood, and I always wanted to expand my knowledge in cyber security.

Also, one of the reasons was due to the offer of a 4-year sandwich degree programme (placement year). I thought maybe If I gain industrial experience during my time at university, it will make my life so much easier after I finish university i.e., applying for jobs would make it easier for me as I would have 1 year experience in the industry.

What steps did you take to improve your employability whilst at university?

I undertook part time role as an Assistant Manager at Aagrah Midpoint Suite during my time at university. My role was to supervise up to 40 staff and responsible for the planning of the Banqueting Department.  This role developed my skills in leadership and customer service.

I also did some work as a Website Developer Assistant, where I analysed spreadsheets and databases (products and services) using Microsoft Excel, Adobe Dreamweaver and Wix.com

How did Career and Employability Services / Placement Staff support you during your time at university?

The Faculty Careers Team was amazing.  I benefited so much from attending the weekly lectures/webinars and the 1-1 drop-in sessions. I applied to a number of companies but was getting rejected and felt really disheartened. I honestly thought I was not going to get a placement which I really wanted.  However, I used the weekly ‘Drop-in’ sessions regularly for further feedback and kept updating and targeting my CV/CL to ensure that my applications were effective.

They also helped me with the understanding of the principles of interviews and how important it is to do an in-depth research of the companies and the roles.  From the research conducted, I was able to anticipate the kind of interview questions.

With their help and support, I was able to secure a placement role as SOC Analyst (Student Placement) with ECSC in Bradford. 

Tell us about your current (or previous) placement and what makes you successful in securing the placement?

My industrial placement at ECSC has been so amazing. I have learnt so much over this year and has helped me in the long run. From learning new cyber security technologies and vulnerabilities, how to configure tools and completing certifications which majority of people don’t have (e.g., BTL1, Security+, CompTIA and CEH) – you can learn so much which sets you up for life!

What makes me successful in securing my placement was having the basic knowledge in cyber security. Researching and taking the time to find out more about the industry was also beneficial.

I was also well prepared for the interview – I did a lot of research on the company (I attended the presentation given and showed my passion and interests by asking lots of questions) and get additional support from Academic staff with regard to the tests which I had to do as part of the recruitment process.

What advice would you give to current students about finding a placement (and/or work experience) opportunities?

My advice would be ‘to never give up’ – keep trying hard and there will always be someone there that will want you.  At this current stage, don’t think about the salary on offer as you are purely there to gain experience and learn about the industry. Think of it for the long run, something you want to set up for life.

If you’re successful in your placement, the placement provider may offer you a part time job while you are in your final year of university (and will also be keen to offer you a graduate role after completing your studies).  So, in your final year you are less stressful in graduate job hunting (as you are more or less guaranteed of a job) and can therefore concentrate on doing well in your studies.

Use Career and Employability Services / Placement Staff support as much as you can, attend the sessions they set out for you, email the team for advice, and listen to them.  They know what they are doing, and they are professionals!