Tom S.
About me
| Tom S. | |
| Law | |
| Law (with a year abroad) | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Derwent | |
| 2019 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Fast Stream: Generalist | |
| Cabinet Office | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Government and civil service | |
| Large business (250+ employees) | |
| 2020 |
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A day in the life of a Fast Stream: Generalist in the United Kingdom
I wanted a scheme with a lot of flexibility and that is what the fast stream provided me with.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I work for the UK government. My current rotation within the scheme is to the National Operations arm of Border Force.
What do you do?
I manage stakeholders, write operational plans, and gather intelligence for Border Force.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I have had a lot of jobs before, during, and after university. I have worked in: hotels, Sainsburys, a call centre, promotional events, a GP practice, a post office, and other businesses. I also had a work experience period with Hogan Lovell in Hong Kong. I wanted a scheme with a lot of flexibility and that is what the fast stream provided me with.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
Everything is more complex than you imagine when looking from the outside in. Border Force does an enormous amount for the country that I wasn't aware of.
Describe your most memorable day at work
My most memorable moment was liaising with the directors of a well known charity organisation.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
Working from home without meeting colleagues is challenging. The role involves a great deal of stakeholder management which is naturally more difficult from home.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
My work environment is easygoing and positive. The culture in my team is very supportive.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I practiced Thai Boxing and worked in student media. I wouldn't say either have a lot of transferable skills for my role other than social ones, which are invaluable.
What would you like to do next with your career?
I'd like to work abroad for the UK government in some capacity.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Apply for as many things as you can and do not be put off by rejections, they are normal and vital to improving yourself as a candidate.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Anything about life post-university, and obviously the civil service and applications as a specialist area.
Next steps...
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