I'm doing some research into the different graduate schemes that are out there, and so far have found it's quite a tough arena!

Just wondering what everyone else makes of these fast-track schemes? What would you expect from a graduate scheme? Is it better to go down the general management route, or would you suggest specialising in a particular function? I think that like a lot of other graduates, I'm unsure about what I want to do - so what's the best answer?

Is there anyone who is already on a graduate scheme and can share their thoughts with me? I think that a lot of the time, we get so caught up in securing that 'dream job' that we don't stop to think, "What is the employer offering me?". So I guess some thoughts on what to look out for would be really helpful!

Hey RCrosweller,

I too am looking for a graduate scheme come September 2011 and have the following criteria:
+£25k a year with regulary pay reviews and performance-based bonuses
A well known, established brand
A company that invests a lot into training and development
South east/west or London location
Specialising in marketing, but a rotation-based scheme

I don't really have any interests or hobbies so the type of company/industry doesn't really bother me. Just as long as the brand appeals to me I'm happy.

A question I find myself asking is "Do I really want to work for a national/global company"? The alternative is SMEs but a new start up company, I think, is a really risky and exciting option. Imagine helping build it from the bottom-up, see it's successes, and be a part of something new. Your range of responsibilities would be limitless when compared to a grad company where would might only see a fraction!!! Decisions, decisions, decisions...

You're right though - there is so much to think about

Hi RCCrosweller,

I agree with you regarding to that the job market is a tough area right now, and to stand out in the graduate applications is quite a challenge! I think what would be helpful is to actually use quite some time in responding the questions that often appear in the application process, where one must give examples. The STAR format is always a good tool to use.

I would expect a graduate scheme to be thoroughly organised and that the guidelines for any graduate that would start to be clear. Also, professionalism is a must. What have you studied/are you studying?  I think that a graduate scheme will be tough, but also that a graduate would learn and develop a lot. However, I do think its important that you accept a scheme that you know is what you want to do. And yes, it is hard to figure out the direction you want to go career wise. How you given any thoughts do which area you would like to work in?? I, personally, tend to be more attracted to marketing, communciationas and management, so I only would apply to those kind of schemes.

Hi hs00077,

how is the job hunt going? Congrats with your MSc! Thats a great achievement. How did you find postgraduate study?

With regards to the job hunt, have you contacted the careers service at Surrey University? They may be helpful. Even if you have graduated, I bet they have a program for alumni too. It never hurts to ask!

What area are you looking to work within? Do you have any experience? I personally found this site, milkround.com, very helpful. Maybe you should take a look around and see if there is anything interesting for you here? It may be right in front of you!

Let me start by saying I am not trolling here.

This is a ridiculous post. What did you do at university? Uni isn't just about getting a degree and then walking into a graduate job. You develop other skills, become independent, some people might even develop common sense... How can you have graduated from uni and say you have no idea how to go about looking for a job. It completely blows my mind and is embarrassing to read to be honest. 

Although it is reassuring when you heard there are 70 applicants for every one vacancy and you realise most of them probably don't even know what C.V. stands for.