One of the best ways to make friends, network and develop skills as a student is to get involved in co-curricular activities. Societies, sports, travel and volunteering pose a great opportunity to socialise, connect with a community of like-minded people and also stand out in the recruitment process.

One of the key opportunities I took was connecting with the Warwick Innovation District (WID). I believed WID to be the epicentre of startup conversations on campus, and the best way for Warwick students to be informed and build a connection to the West Midlands startup community.

I learned about programmes, funding, mentoring and networked with businesses at the Warwick Innovation Day. These interactions were instrumental in securing my first work placement with a health and lifestyle startup in Birmingham. Beyond getting a work placement, I was happy to establish relationships with insightful people that regularly present new working opportunities.

I also joined the Warwick Kickstart Society as the postgraduate representative, supporting the team in event planning and marketing, with a focus on disruptive technology and FinTech. Working with fellow students from across the globe presented fantastic networking opportunities, in particular I learned the fundamentals of the startup scene in France. 

Co-curricular activities offer a great alternative learning experience. You will build a network and develop skills that will undoubtedly aid your future career and social life – make the most of them