Elif T.
About me
| Elif T. | |
| Social and Political Science | |
| Sociology | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Halifax | |
| 2021 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Civil service fast stream | |
| Cabinet office | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Government and civil service | |
| Large business (250+ employees) | |
| 2021 |
More about Elif
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A day in the life of a Civil service fast stream in the United Kingdom
Mentorship can come in all types of forms, I found it especially helpful to ask current fast streamers about their experiences when applying myself.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I work within the Civil Service Fast Stream, posted within the Cabinet Office.
What do you do?
Since this is my first posting, I am learning more about the civil service while facilitating policy making in the Cabinet Office and reporting to ministers.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I have always heard good things about the civil service, from the flexitime to the employment opportunities within the career path. I have always been interested in the working of government and working on policy.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
Nope! Since I had to apply for the fast stream the October before graduation, I knew well in advance what I wanted to do. If not the fast stream, perhaps the charity sector.
Describe your most memorable day at work
I haven't worked many days so far! I would say meeting a multitude of aspirational civil servants who have executed amazing work was inspiring. The civil service fast stream connects you to a powerful network which is such an interesting cohort to be a part of.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I was in the Laidlaw Scholarship cohort in my first year which connected me to a network of scholars and academics. I understood the value of networks and self driven research, something that benefitted me when applying for the fast steam.
I also have campaigned on poverty since 2015, something that influenced my time at university. Being able to give extracurricular examples when applying for the fast stream was incredibly useful and benefitted my application.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Prepare early and seek out people (that are happy to talk to you!) that are doing the jobs you want. Mentorship can come in all types of forms, I found it especially helpful to ask current fast streamers about their experiences when applying myself.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Any! I'm more than happy to chat about anything related to employment, grad schemes, applications, imposter syndrome and so on.
Next steps...
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