In May 2021 we welcomed six History graduates to a Careers event run in partnership with the Alumni History Chapter. The event was a chance for students to learn about different career paths and options with their degree subjects. Most of the speakers had completed joint honours degrees but all of them spoke about the value of the History degree and the transferable skills that come from studying in the humanities.
First to share their career journey and answer student questions was Rachel, who had extensive experience in journalism and was currently working as a political reporter. She talked about how to pursue a career in journalism, noting that research skills and the ability to remember detail are essential in this field. She said these skills, along with storytelling and being interested in people, are all qualities you develop through completing a History degree.
The concept of storytelling in a job was one that many of the speakers picked up on. Craig, an Archaeology and World Heritage Officer, explained that the History side of his degree taught him this skill, which translates into the world of work as communication and taking an original angle. Craig also praised the critical assessment skills he gained during his degree but mentioned that social media and photography skills are an asset in his line of work.
Another alumna to mention social media skills was Rosemary, a Communications Officer working for an NGO in Brussels. She encouraged students to get involved in opportunities at university, to volunteer from the grassroots and to find your passionate. She explained that she had just hired a graduate to manage her social media channels across the organisation. The graduate was chosen, she said, owing to their role managing the social media presence of their university society.
Although social media might not be for everyone, it can present a great opportunity to get your foot in the door of an organisation. Alice, an Interpretation Manager, explained how this was especially important for the heritage sector, where getting a job in a smaller site can be a great starting point for graduates. She also said that communication skills are vital in this area and credited her History degree with teaching her how to condense information. She encouraged students to put yourself forward for volunteering work and to be enthusiastic, willing and flexible.
Similarly, Juan’s top tip was to take opportunities to get out of your comfort zone. Working as an EU Public Policy Manager, he encouraged students to use your existing networks and read up on your area of interest outside of academia. This research allows you to form your own opinions, a skill vital to all humanities degrees. He was realistic in noting that many jobs in this area are competitive, therefore it’s important to be resilient when applying for jobs. This skill can be honed by challenging yourself with new experiences and opportunities to grow.
The importance of getting involved was something each of the Alumni agreed on. The final speaker, Christopher, a PhD student, talked about how volunteering within an archive was relevant experience that prepared him well for his current studies. He too mentioned the importance of storytelling skills and the role they will play in the completion of his PhD. This key skill was present across the board and highlighted the unique nature of a humanities degree.
