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Making the most of your time at University

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HomeCareers and EmployabilityStudentsMaking the most of your time at University

The Chester Difference Award

The Chester Difference Award (CDA) is designed to help:

  • Articulate your skills
  • Boost your confidence
  • Progress your career thinking
  • Prepare for recruitment processes
  • Grow your network
  • Be a student with a difference

The CDA is recognised on the Higher Education Achievement Report and award recipients will receive a certificate of completion.

We currently offer 3 levels of the Award:

  • The Chester Difference Award (CDA) 
  • The Chester Difference Plus Award (CDPA)
  • The Chester Difference Excellence Award (CDEA)

Current students and graduates can access more information on CareerHub.

Develop.Me Sessions

Careers and Employability also offer a series of Develop.me sessions that enable you to develop the skills, knowledge and attributes that you need for your future. As a student or graduate, you will have access to a variety of meaningful sessions to support you on your personal journey through university and beyond. Take action by attending our live in-person or remote Develop.Me sessions. 

Whether you want to find your strengths, build your confidence, write a quality CV, find out how to be successful during interviews or build your network, we have a session to help you. You will also have the opportunity to enhance your knowledge by learning about your values and the skills that will help you grow and develop, both personally and professionally. 

Our DevelopMe sessions are co-delivered by a range of professionals, consisting of Career Consultants, Entrepreneurs and Employers. 

Current students and graduates can find out more, book onto the sessions or access our range of on-demand content via CareerHub. 

Current students and graduates can access more information in the Events section on CareerHub.

The Venture Programme

Be your own boss – interested in starting your own business, self employment or freelancing?

The Venture Programme will help you to develop the skills, knowledge, confidence and connections for your business journey. So, if you’re looking to enhance your enterprise skills, start up your own business or pursue a freelancing career, the Venture Programme will challenge your thinking, expose you to the business world and give you the opportunity to make something happen for yourself.
Venture events are open to all University of Chester and graduates – within two years of graduating – and you can gain recognition for taking part in Venture activities through the Chester Difference Award.

Current students and graduates can access more information in CareerHub.

Take a look at some of the businesses which have been supported through the Venture Programme here. Take a look at some of the businesses which have been supported through the Venture Programme here. 

Career Conversations

Want to talk about your career?

Whether you’re a current student or a graduate, our friendly and professionally qualified Career Consultants are here to help you explore and develop a career idea, discover what’s important to you, and work out your next steps. Whether you've a career path in mind, or you’re looking to explore your options, we’re here to help you. We offer advice and guidance on a number of topics including CVs, applications, interviews, further study, entrepreneurship (starting a business or freelancing) and much more! 

A member of the Careers and Employability team is here to welcome you, listen to you and help you to make the right choices. A range of in-person and remote appointments are available daily (Monday-Friday) and we’re also available to answer your questions at Drop-In Clinics throughout the year. Find out more, ask a question or book an appointment via CareerHub.