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Make it Happen 2025: Your exclusive opportunity to learn from Sussex alumni
By: Chloe Jacob
Last updated: Friday, 7 March 2025
Are you thinking about your future career but unsure where to start? Or perhaps you have a career path in mind but want to hear from those who have successfully navigated it? Make it Happen 2025 is here to provide you with real-world insights, career inspiration, and exclusive networking opportunities with Sussex alumni who have been in your shoes.
Taking place throughout March, this flagship series of on-campus events will introduce you to Sussex graduates who have built careers in industries such as arts, communications, development, charities, finance, public services, and marketing. Each panel discussion is designed to give you valuable insights into different sectors, helping you discover the opportunities available and gain first-hand advice on navigating your career path.
What makes Make it Happen 2025 special?
Make it Happen is your chance to hear directly from those who have shared the same experience of studying at Sussex. The alumni speakers come from diverse degree backgrounds, showing you that your career possibilities are broader than you might think. You’ll also gain inside knowledge on industries that don’t always recruit through conventional routes, helping you explore options beyond the obvious.
Alumni speakers will be joining us from leading organisations, including:
- Oxfam
- UN
- Bloomsbury Publishing
- BBC
- Civil Service
- Department for Business and Trade
- Brighton and Hove City Council
- Freelance filmmakers and directors
With exclusive access to these professionals, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, hear personal success stories, and receive practical advice on how to kickstart your own career. Whether you’re a first-year student starting to explore options or a finalist looking for actionable steps, these events will provide insights you won’t find anywhere else.
Why attend more than one event?
Each panel is focused on a different industry, but that doesn’t mean you should only attend the one that directly aligns with your current interests. Many career paths are non-linear, and inspiration can come from unexpected places. You might find that a speaker from a different field shares an approach or experience that resonates with you, sparking new ideas for your own journey.
Event series
Careers in Development, Charities and Not-for-Profit
Wednesday 5 March, 6-8pm
Chowen Lecture Theatre, BSMS
Careers in Government and Public Services
Wednesday 12 March 6-8pm
Chowen Lecture Theatre, BSMS
Careers in Business, Finance and Marketing
Wednesday 19 March 6-8pm
Jubilee Lecture Theatre (please note this is an updated location)
Careers in Media, Arts and Communications
Wednesday 26 March 6-8pm
Chowen Lecture Theatre, BSMS
What will you gain?
Past attendees have found these events invaluable, leaving with practical career advice, a deeper understanding of industry expectations, and even new connections that have led to work experience opportunities. In previous years, speakers have shared insights on:
- Building a meaningful career – finding work that aligns with your values.
- Gaining experience while at Sussex – using your time at university wisely.
- Navigating job applications – tips on standing out in a competitive job market.
- Networking effectively – leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and Sussex Connect.
Don’t miss out on this chance to shape your future. Places are limited, so book your place now on CareerHub and make the most of this unique opportunity.