With the end of the academic year in sight, you might well be wondering what comes next. Whether you’ll be graduating imminently or returning to Sussex next year, we’ve pulled together some great tips to help you make the most of your time this summer.

Join Sussex Connect

Sussex Connect is the mentoring and networking platform that connects you with our global network of fantastic Sussex alumni. You can sign up with your LinkedIn account, and we asked Digital Media Creators Malini and Sapna about the benefits of doing just that.

Video transcript available below.

Support from the Careers team

Did you know that you can continue to access support from the careers team here at Sussex for three years after graduation?

Whether you’re a final-year student or not, this summer is a great time to take the next step in your career. From finding summer work to getting support to start your own business, the careers team is here to help.

Not sure where to start? Find out what support you can access.

Keep learning

The summer is a great opportunity to pick up new skills. Did you know students at Sussex have access to LinkedIn Learning? With over 16,000 expert-led courses to choose from, covering subjects ranging from IT, business and management to creative subjects and mental wellbeing, each course is broken down into sections making it easy to stop and start at a time that suits you. You can also connect your personal LinkedIn profile to provide additional benefits, such as publishing completed course certificates and receiving recommendations based on your information.

If you’re about to graduate, but not yet ready to leave, then you can also take a look at your options for further study, including a discount on your Masters here at Sussex. 

Video transcript

[Video cuts between Digital Media Creators Malini and Spana, talking to camera outside of the Student Centre]

Malini: “They say that your network is your net worth,”

Sapna: “but how often do they actually teach you how to build your own valuable network?”

Malini: “That's why today we're excited to talk to you about something that can help you build your network here at Sussex and beyond.”

Sapna: “That's right, it's called Sussex Connect.”

[Cut between Malini and Sapna now talking inside the Student centre]

Malini [seated at a desk]: “Sussex Connect is more than just a platform, it's a gateway to a world of opportunities.”

Sapna [climbing stairs]: “Whether you're a current student looking to expand your network over the summer

Malini [climbing stairs]: “or a graduating student ready to join our alumni community, Sussex Connect has your back.”

[Over shoulder shot of Malini signing up to Sussex Connect on her laptop]

Malini: “Signing up is easy. Just sign up through Linkedin or email and within minutes you'll be connected to a network of Sussex alumni from across the world.”

[Cut between Malini and Sapna now talking inside the Student centre]

Sapna: Wait, what's "alumni"?

[overlay of the definition of alumni as read by Malini]

Malini: “Good question. An alumni is a former student or a graduate of a particular school college or university.”

Sapna: “Interesting, so what are the benefits of connecting with Sussex alumni?”

Malini: “The list of benefits is infinite. [Malini walking outside] For example, if you need advice for an upcoming job interview you can reach out to alumni who work for your dream company and get insider tips.

Sapna [outside]: “How about students who have no clue about what career path they want to choose?”

Malini: “Well, that's a very interesting question. You can find mentors on Sussex Connect who can help offer guidance and support as you navigate your future.”

Sapna: “Wow, that's awesome. But do the students at Sussex know about Sussex Connect?”

Malini [opening the door to the Student Centre]: “Well, let's find out.”

Malini [sat at a desk with a student]: “Have you ever heard of Sussex Connect?”

Student 1: “I have actually. I'm enrolled.”

[Cut to another desk with a second student]

Student 2: “Yes, I do.”

Malini: “So are you enrolled in it?”

Student 2: “Yes, I am through my business school.”

Malini [walking towards camera]: “So what are you waiting for? Sign up today and build your net worth.”

[End card that reads “Sussex Connect. Sussexconnect.org.uk” and includes an illustration of students on campus]