University of Exeter society committed to inclusivity, representation and empowerment of women involved in politics.

The student society ‘Women in Politics’ host Professional panel with alumnae speakers

Whilst graduate application season was well under way, Women in Politics society hosted a ‘Professional Panel’ event so that members could speak to women who had been through the same experience. The panel consisted of four young women, 3 of whom are University of Exeter alumnae who had each undertaken different career paths and gave insight into their sector as well as their reasons for success. This was super useful when it came to getting niche advice on CV’s, application forms and video interviews.

The event was incredibly reassuring for all those going through the stressful, and often disheartening, application season. As our panelists shared the varied routes they had undertaken, it was clear to see that it was worth putting in the effort now, despite potential rejections. We concluded with a Q&A which (unsurprisingly) mainly revolved around COVID-related concerns. The main takeaway here was that, although uncertainty was high during this time, we can make the most of our lives being moved online through the abundance of online courses, virtual work experiences and ever-more connected world.

This event was particularly successful as our very new and tight-knit society meant that we could have the open and honest conversations that we all needed to get through these particularly stressful times.

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The panel:

EMILY HOBLE- BA INTERNATIONAL REALTIONS WITH STUDY ABROAD 2016
Completed a placement with London & Partners during her year abroad in China and now leads a successful career within the company as a Senior Inward Investment Manager.

GRACE BROWNFIELD- BA POLITICS 2012
Started a role within Charityworks as a Graduate Trainee and has since worked in a number of roles in the charity sector. A massive advocate for the not-for-profit sector and gave great insight on how to build a career within it.

OLIVIA DONOVAN- BA POLITICS & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE)
Started a graduate scheme in September as a management trainee at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. Olivia worked in recruitment prior to university so has in-depth perspective on both sides of things.

HOLLY REED –BSC POLITICS & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 2020
Currently undertaking a Master in Exeter and is an ambassador for the Wiser recruitment agency. She represented a variety of companies and advocated for the fact that there is something for all years through internships and spring week opportunities.

Date: 10 May 2021