Bloody Job Centre Plus

I felt a little sad reading all this, and how useless the job centre seems to be. It is also a reminder of how lucky I, and I guess many others have been at the beginning of our careers. i done a combination of medical biology, and an MBI. i then did a practical course in application engineering where i ended up writing clinical trial management software. Following which Eli Lilly made me an offer i couldnt refuse. and had a very interesting and varied international career. despite them knowing what they wanted me for, i had to do their mba programme which gave me a great allrounded view of how an organisation worked.

anyway i have left that organisation, and none of my uk contacts are in the uk anylonger.


a few things have already been mentioned, being sociable is very important. keep building those networks. personally i would also expand on that degree with another like a business, or a law, or and it. Have you got a driving license? Have you signed up with contract agencies for cra type work. Have you considered applying for pharma sales type jobs.

Good luck, you'll get there.
 
s162216 said:
About 20 years later the uni of Nottingham students still make/made fun of us at Trent (I did my degree there!) for that - I still remember Welcome Week at Trent very vividly as we were all on this double decker bus on one of the nights out going from Clifton Campus to one of the clubs in the centre, and quite literally everybody on the bus was yelling at the top of their lungs "WE HATE BEESTON! WE HATE BEESTON..." (and jumping up and down - me and my flatmates were on the bottom deck and the ceiling did literally start to warp at one point under all the jumping from the people on the top deck!) I can't remember how the rest of the song/chant/drunken rant went (it did include "better a poly than a toff" if I remember), but it wasn't exactly very complimentary about the uni of...
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Exactly all banter.. I was out in the sticks at Sutton Bonington with a herd of cows!
 
ACW said:
As I said, I have a lot of science minded people in the family (scientists and medical types) so am used to the ribbing. I always give back as good as I get - especially when they regularly come to me asking advice on one thing or another and I toy with them by suggesting they go find a lawyer with a BSc! (I'm not yet qualified anyway)

What you need Lynton, is a nice BA in people management ;)
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Ha ha.. I opted for the Cert Mgt (Open) paid for by work with a £1000 well done when completed and another £1000 a year.
 
Just thought I'd update this thread, I actually *might* have a good chance of getting a job!

I went for an interview last week to be a "biomedical support worker" (working in histopathology doing sample reception, sectioning, processing, mounting, staining etc) at Addenbrookes Hospital, and a couple of days later I got a call back from them. They weren't offering me the job *yet*... but they invited me to come and work with them for a day to see how I fit in and if I thought it was the sort of job I would enjoy doing! Anyway I'm going to have the day with them tomorrow, and I'm cautiously hopeful about it. If I can get it and just do it for a year or so then I can save to do post-graduate study and not have to borrow quite so much. That would put me in a lot better position, plus I would have lab experience which would increase my chances of getting another job anyway.

The job centre are still as unorganised as ever... my "personal advisor" hardly ever seems to actually be in, the upshot being that despite me supposedly having to come in the sign every week, I've never actually had to go weekly as you don't have to go when your advisor is not available! Slight downside is that she hardly ever seems to be there when she's supposed to either, which meant me and another guy being effectively forgotten about for an hour until somebody else asked why we'd been waiting so long!

Sam.
 
you've got a first so you can do a phd and not have to pay for it.also if you want experience contact a PI whose work is of interest and ask if you can do some work in the lab. I do this as a way to keep
my mind working - I'm a member of staff although I don't get paid so I have 24 hour access to the lab etc.
 
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s162216 said:
Just thought I'd update this thread, I actually *might* have a good chance of getting a job!

I went for an interview last week to be a "biomedical support worker" (working in histopathology doing sample reception, sectioning, processing, mounting, staining etc) at Addenbrookes Hospital, and a couple of days later I got a call back from them. They weren't offering me the job *yet*... but they invited me to come and work with them for a day to see how I fit in and if I thought it was the sort of job I would enjoy doing! Anyway I'm going to have the day with them tomorrow, and I'm cautiously hopeful about it. If I can get it and just do it for a year or so then I can save to do post-graduate study and not have to borrow quite so much. That would put me in a lot better position, plus I would have lab experience which would increase my chances of getting another job anyway.

The job centre are still as unorganised as ever... my "personal advisor" hardly ever seems to actually be in, the upshot being that despite me supposedly having to come in the sign every week, I've never actually had to go weekly as you don't have to go when your advisor is not available! Slight downside is that she hardly ever seems to be there when she's supposed to either, which meant me and another guy being effectively forgotten about for an hour until somebody else asked why we'd been waiting so long!

Sam.
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Great news on the job Sam, I hope it works out well for you
 
POAH said:
you've got a first so you can do a phd and not have to pay for it.also if you want experience contact a PI whose work is of interest and ask if you can do some work in the lab. I do this as a way to keep
my mind working - I'm a member of staff although I don't get paid so I have 24 hour access to the lab etc.
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errrr you ask to about their current work, and fully funded positions.

OP it is very important to practice interview skills, be enthusiastic about your own work, and know all about the company / supervisor.

Where did you graduate from and what was your degree? Some form of masters is always strongly preferable over Bsc for the PhD route. However there are plenty of generic jobs that are looking for Bsc graduates with at least 2:1 (or even 2:2). For example accountancy at PWC, Delloitte, KPMG, etc... Did you have any leadership roles at any student organisation? You could apply to Aldi for manager's job and it pays £40k/pa (I wouldn't mind that salary myself).
 
op got a 1st tells you in his opening statement.

Sam, I'm in the same boat as you. I currently work part time in a supermarket while looking for a science job. I still do research at the university though unpaid but this makes my cv look fuller and I get to keep my nose in too. my supervisor was all too happy for the help.

the other thing I do is I help teach the undergraduate labs which is done through the undergraduate school on a zero hour contact. obviously I don't know what it's like at your local university.
 
Well I did the day there.... and I only went and got offered the job!

It's subject to references and health clearance, but I can honestly say that I've practically got it! I'm so happy as after 80+ applications, 6 interviews, 3 PhD applications and 1 PhD interview, I've finally got somewhere!

Thanks for all the support and good luck messages everyone, I'm certain that at last I've got my break into science!

Sam
 
Excellent, nice work Sam!
 
congrats with the job

POAH said:
op got a 1st tells you in his opening statement.
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that actually doesn't tell much at all. Bsc / Masters / something else, specific subject, university. If I was hiring for a research project I would want to know all of that and I can certainly see not employing someone with a 1st given certain combination of the other (most likely Bsc and potentially lower tier uni).
 
daugirdas said:
that actually doesn't tell much at all. Bsc / Masters / something else, specific subject, university. If I was hiring for a research project I would want to know all of that and I can certainly see not employing someone with a 1st given certain combination of the other (most likely Bsc and potentially lower tier uni).
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s162216 said:
I graduated with a First class degree in Pharmacology last July
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tells you its an undergraduate honours degree other than that nothing but since the OP wasn't posting on here to apply for a job you'd not expect anything more. I can only assume that the OP sends a CV detailing his education and experience when applying for jobs. and thats a pretty snobbish attitude to have, the university is irrelavent its what the candidate knows.
 
POAH said:
tells you its an undergraduate honours degree other than that nothing but since the OP wasn't posting on here to apply for a job you'd not expect anything more. I can only assume that the OP sends a CV detailing his education and experience when applying for jobs. and thats a pretty snobbish attitude to have, the university is irrelavent its what the candidate knows.
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No, I couldn't disagree more. Different universities have different curricula, different levels of practical experience (sometimes next to none!), trustworthiness (you can buy certificates online), etc. There is always an interview for a reason to find out more about the selected few.
Undergraduate degree can mean anything. How is 3 year Bsc with 2 months practical work comparable to taught masters 4-5 year degree with 1-2 years practice. They are not. I don't know anyone who got into PhD course without MChem / MSci or BSc + MSc etc. Now tell me I'm snobbish because this is the way it works.
 
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POAH said:
and that's a pretty snobbish attitude to have, the university is irrelevant its what the candidate knows.
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This.

I know many people who went to PhD without a masters degree. In fact, one of them is supervising me through my MSc...
 
What fantastic news for the OP....don't mind the quibbling by the child...enjoy it....party like you do and make the most of it....You've displayed a great attitude and I'm sure you will be well on your way following this break! Well done...And don't forget that, you done this!
 
robhooley167 said:
This.

I know many people who went to PhD without a masters degree. In fact, one of them is supervising me through my MSc...
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Was that like 20-30 years ago? Things have changed now. A BSc would mean no practice work, no publications and these two things will kill the chances quicker than you can type a reply. Maybe Technical University of South East Countryshire will accept far lesser qualifications but that doesn't mean any of top 25 will.
 
daugirdas said:
Was that like 20-30 years ago? Things have changed now. A BSc would mean no practice work, no publications and these two things will kill the chances quicker than you can type a reply. Maybe Technical University of South East Countryshire will accept far lesser qualifications but that doesn't mean any of top 25 will.
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How about just rejoice in the news of the OP and let it be....Show some EQ over IQ ;)
 
You don't half talk some nonsense.
 
daugirdas said:
Was that like 20-30 years ago? Things have changed now. A BSc would mean no practice work, no publications and these two things will kill the chances quicker than you can type a reply. Maybe Technical University of South East Countryshire will accept far lesser qualifications but that doesn't mean any of top 25 will.
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girl in our lab expressed, purified, got crystals and solved the structure of a protein during her honours project.

I did 2.5 days of labs in 3rd year and a 18 week project in 4th year- you get a load of lab time in science degrees and that was almost 20 years ago. publications really don't mean anything unless you are first or last and you are so very unlikely to get that at undergraduate level and if you are applying for a job that only requires an undergrad degree they won't be looking for publications.
 
POAH said:
op got a 1st tells you in his opening statement.

Sam, I'm in the same boat as you. I currently work part time in a supermarket while looking for a science job. I still do research at the university though unpaid but this makes my cv look fuller and I get to keep my nose in too. my supervisor was all too happy for the help.

the other thing I do is I help teach the undergraduate labs which is done through the undergraduate school on a zero hour contact. obviously I don't know what it's like at your local university.
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Respect :)
 
daugirdas said:
No, I couldn't disagree more. Different universities have different curricula, different levels of practical experience (sometimes next to none!), trustworthiness (you can buy certificates online), etc. There is always an interview for a reason to find out more about the selected few.
Undergraduate degree can mean anything. How is 3 year Bsc with 2 months practical work comparable to taught masters 4-5 year degree with 1-2 years practice. They are not. I don't know anyone who got into PhD course without MChem / MSci or BSc + MSc etc. Now tell me I'm snobbish because this is the way it works.
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I got a PhD with a msc because I only got a 2:2, other people in the lab are a mix of straight from undergraduate and those who did mres courses but they had 2:1's. my friends in other labs didn't do an MSc and most of the wellcome trust students are straight from undergrad degrees too.
 
s162216 said:
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Sorry to hear your issues buddy. I graduated last year too but with a second class hons in BSc (hons) Wildlife Conservation, and I had to sign on too... It's such a ballache it really is.... I was recently at the point on giving up on my dreams of one day being an Ecologist specialising in GIS. I know that I won't be at that stage in my life for a long while yet. So I looked for an alternative. Try your local shops, especially large chains - I am now finally employed after a year of unemployment (Graduated last July didn't get a job till the beginning of July!) . The Job center did nothing, they never helped with my CV or anything, they're so useless. I just went to get that £114 per 2 weeks! Though, if you want to PM me you're most welcome and I can send you my CV so you can see how I managed to make myself somewhat employable, and give it a shot. I mean your CV might look a billion times better than mine but hay, if you would like to see it let me know! :) - I was recently employed by a large petshop chain, which kinda works within my National Diploma in Animal Management but they employ great people! :D. I am happy to work here for the moment, I know this isn't going to be a permanent position, but for the moment it brings in money to get out the student overdraft, out the house and off JSA.

Keep your chin up pal, I know how distressing and deflating it is, but keep trying mate - just think for today not for the future, you're young... get some volunteering work if possible? even if it's just a lab bitch at the local school or something!! :) Paid retail job + voluntary work = money and the ability too fund your future carrier!

POAH said:
I got a PhD with a msc because I only got a 2:2, other people in the lab are a mix of straight from undergraduate and those who did mres courses but they had 2:1's. my friends in other labs didn't do an MSc and most of the wellcome trust students are straight from undergrad degrees too.
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I would love a PhD and an MSc, I actually sent off a question to a uni about MRes (or a MSc, I am finding many MSc's too ask for 2:1s or above. even though I got a 2:2. Seeing if I can get on an MRes with a Post Grad Diploma. As I don't think im intelligent enough for a PhD. But being dyslexic (I have been diagnosed since 1997. Yet I still want to be in academia, so sod the people who use it as an excuse for not being able to do anything) I think that's where I struggle the most. The confidence in my abilities to achive such an awesome status. Maybe one day, more hard work and dedication is needed!
 
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JDP said:
Sorry to hear your issues buddy. I graduated last year too but with a second class hons in BSc (hons) Wildlife Conservation, and I had to sign on too... It's such a ballache it really is.... I was recently at the point on giving up on my dreams of one day being an Ecologist specialising in GIS. I know that I won't be at that stage in my life for a long while yet. So I looked for an alternative. Try your local shops, especially large chains - I am now finally employed after a year of unemployment (Graduated last July didn't get a job till the beginning of July!) . The Job center did nothing, they never helped with my CV or anything, they're so useless. I just went to get that £114 per 2 weeks! Though, if you want to PM me you're most welcome and I can send you my CV so you can see how I managed to make myself somewhat employable, and give it a shot. I mean your CV might look a billion times better than mine but hay, if you would like to see it let me know! :) - I was recently employed by a large petshop chain, which kinda works within my National Diploma in Animal Management but they employ great people! :D. I am happy to work here for the moment, I know this isn't going to be a permanent position, but for the moment it brings in money to get out the student overdraft, out the house and off JSA.

Keep your chin up pal, I know how distressing and deflating it is, but keep trying mate - just think for today not for the future, you're young... get some volunteering work if possible? even if it's just a lab bitch at the local school or something!! :) Paid retail job + voluntary work = money and the ability too fund your future carrier!



I would love a PhD and an MSc, I actually sent off a question to a uni about MRes even though I got a 2:2. Seeing if I can get on an MRes with a Post Grad Diploma. As I don't think im intelligent enough for a PhD. lol
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Thanks and good luck, I actually got some great news on Wednesday as I finally managed to get a job as a Biomedical Support Worker in Histopathology at Addenbrookes Hospital so things are finally looking up for me! It's a small start, but it's a scientific position which will get me get my career going.

Sam
 
s162216 said:
Thanks and good luck, I actually got some great news on Wednesday as I finally managed to get a job as a Biomedical Support Worker in Histopathology at Addenbrookes Hospital so things are finally looking up for me! It's a small start, but it's a scientific position which will get me get my career going.

Sam
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Thanks buddy, and that's excellent news. Really happy for you buddy!! :) - everyone has to start somewhere, and as you say this is the start of something fantastic. Keep up the great work!! :D

Just scrolled up and saw your announcement. woops. Well done again bud!
 
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you can do an MSc or a PhD with a 2:2 you just have to pay for it yourself. Mres @ glasgow costs about 4.5k
 
POAH said:
you can do an MSc or a PhD with a 2:2 you just have to pay for it yourself. Mres @ glasgow costs about 4.5k
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Really? I thought you needed to pay for a PhD regardless, unless it's under scholarship?.... Will look into that more, thank you. That's cool, looking at MRes at Brighton (same one my old Ecology lecturer did) which is £5,800. What we have to do to better ourself eh! Worth it in the end IMO!
 
POAH said:
you can do an MSc or a PhD with a 2:2 you just have to pay for it yourself.
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You can go in pretty much anywhere with your own funding and a little bit of enthusiasm. I was told a few years ago by an Oxford academic that they would openly welcome anyone with 70k for a PhD / 4yr. And guess what - some african and asian governments happily cover that figure. But that is not the point; you want to be paid at least a minimum salary. Otherwise learn some business basics and start trading - better than stacking shelves or claiming. (not aimed at anyone specifically, but the point is clear).

POAH said:
I got a PhD with a msc because I only got a 2:2, other people in the lab are a mix of straight from undergraduate and those who did mres courses but they had 2:1's. my friends in other labs didn't do an MSc and most of the wellcome trust students are straight from undergrad degrees too.
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You are aware that there are many masters-level undergraduate degrees, right? They are all 4-years and start with an M, not a 'B' and are equivalent to BSc + Mres / Msc put together. You could choose to separate them, but a few years ago that would have been an economic suicide (UG - free, masters - expensive). Now that everything is crewed over once again american-style mix and match as long as there is the money to pay for it all.
 
daugirdas said:
You are aware that there are many masters-level undergraduate degrees, right? They are all 4-years and start with an M, not a 'B' and are equivalent to BSc + Mres / Msc put together. You could choose to separate them, but a few years ago that would have been an economic suicide (UG - free, masters - expensive). Now that everything is crewed over once again american-style mix and match as long as there is the money to pay for it all.
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they are still undergraduate degrees, Glasgow does them in science and the arts. They are not equivilent to an actual MSc
 
JDP said:
Really? I thought you needed to pay for a PhD regardless, unless it's under scholarship?.... Will look into that more, thank you. That's cool, looking at MRes at Brighton (same one my old Ecology lecturer did) which is £5,800. What we have to do to better ourself eh! Worth it in the end IMO!
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you either pay for it yourself around 5.5K I think a year for a home student or you get a studentship which covers your fees and gives you a monthly stipend. I was lucky my MSc was industry funded and I went through the BBSRC studenship for my PhD
 
Well it's taken over a month... but I'm finally starting the job at Addenbrookes (see above for details) on Monday! Turns out that the admin person who was responsible for dealing with my paperwork is basically incompetent as pretty much not a single thing I sent her actually reached its destination, and I ended up having to re-submit nearly everything to occupational health etc myself, which is why it's taken so long.

Another upside is that I've been able to get a room in the staff accommodation on site, and am moving in this Saturday. O.K it's sharing a kitchen/bathroom with 3 other guys (and on the 11th floor - hope the lifts are working this Saturday!), but I don't really care considering that it's only £405 a month including all utility bills and council tax (and about 5 minutes away from my actual job...), especially with ridiculously high rent prices for most places in Cambridge.

I finally got to say "bye!" to the Job Centre today, and I'm so pleased as it's taken me so long to get a job, but it was worth it in the end.

Sam.
 
Excellent news, hope everything goes to plan!
 
Great to hear the end to the saga .

Hope all goes well from now
 
Congrats Sam, hope it all works out well and you can build a career from that.
 
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