Alumni news
Alumni share top career tips at Make it Happen
By: Harriet De Bene
Last updated: Friday, 27 March 2026
These in-person events for students focused on a variety of sectors including Government and the Public Sector, Business and Finance, Media, Arts and Communications and Charities and Not-for-Profit organisations with alumni representing different career stages within their sectors.
Our inspiring speakers included graduates at the beginning of their post-university journeys as well as alumni who have had years of experience in their sectors. They gave valuable insights into their career journeys as well as sharing advice on mentoring and job hunting.
Facilitated by a ßÏßÏÊÓÆµ Careers Consultant, each event included a short introduction from the alumni panellists about their careers, followed by the opportunity for students to ask questions directly to the speakers.
Alumni highlighted that all work experience is valuable, with one panellist noting to “be flexible - your first job might not be where you really want to work but the skills it might give you may help you make the next step.” Another suggestion was that students should “step outside their comfort bubble, to meet people with different ideas and have conversations that challenge them.” Getting the most out of time at university was a common theme with alumni reminding students to “use ßÏßÏÊÓÆµ to develop your skills” and to “speak to your tutors and build connections.”
Feedback from our students about the series of events has also been overwhelmingly positive.
“It was really useful to gain practical insights and advice about entering the job market and developing relevant skills. I also appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the speakers."
We’re hugely grateful to all the alumni who gave their time to volunteer at this year’s Make it Happen series of events. If you are interested in taking part next year please do drop us an email alumni@sussex.ac.uk. More photos from the series of events can also be viewed on .