Top Things To Do in London This October
by Nina Christopoulou

September was full of events signalling the beginning of the academic year… So it’s kind of normal to assume that October would be a little bit more quiet comparatively. And yet it’s London, and London never disappoints nor does it slow down for that matter! As per usual, we picked our favourite events out of a sea of them, and placed them all in one blogpost for your convenience…

1. London Cocktail Week

Did someone say cocktails? You can count us in! You will have one entire week (Oct. 1-7) to head over to the Old Spitalfields Market and get your cocktails for a mere £6 – if you are wearing the special wristband that is! The event boasts over 300 bars across the city, and of course amazing tasting sessions, pop ups, masterclasses and anything else you may be able to think of! We are definitely convinced…

Credit: @Maria Z

2. London Film Festival

Any movie freaks out there? You are really in for a treat with this one! The London Film Festival will be back for the 62nd time to entertain us. The biggest celebration of international cinema will take place from the 10th up until the 21st of October. Even if you are not willing to splurge on a viewing, we recommend passing by the red carpet; it’s an experience all on its own!

Credit: @BFI

3. London Restaurant Festival

As if London didn’t offer enough opportunities for food lovers, the London Restaurant Festival will land at the beginning of October and all throughout the month. This one is quite extravagant, with numerous restaurants offering curated menus for the Festival, at great prices. Tasting menus, restaurant hopping tours and so many more are also available during the month, and it is exciting for us and our taste buds as well!

Credit: @London Restaurant Festival

4. Frieze London 2018

The moment that Regent’s Park turns into an art gallery is back and we couldn’t be happier! Frieze is the event that brings together over 160 galleries from around the globe and dazzles us with the amazing art. Yet you shouldn’t limit yourself to the art, but research the talks and curated events that take place alongside the exhibition… They are equally enticing, if not more!

Credit: @Frieze Art Fair

5. Yayoi Kusama

You know that level of excitement when you are on the verge of doing a Friends-reminiscent happy dance? That was the reaction of most art lovers to the news that Victoria Miro will host a second Yayoi Kusama exhibition. The Queen of Polka Dots, as she is most well-known, will create a brand new infinity mirror room with paper lanterns that we honestly can’t wait to see! From October 3rd up until December 21st you will have the chance to visit the exhibition, which may require pre-booking (just fyi!).

Credit: @Yayoi Kusama

6. Halloween!

Halloween is coming on Saturday, October 31st! We suggest you start the preparations early on for this one, as Londoners go all out… But that’s also the case for The Stay Club, which will have its very own Halloween extravaganza for our residents and their guests – but wouldn’t want to let everything slip so early on, would we? Stay tuned for more info!

Credit: @THE STAY CLUB

7. Natural History Museum Ice Ring

Although the Ice Ring at the Natural History Museum has been associated with Christmas vibes, it opens up at the end of this month (probably to get us in the festive mood!). While you will have an opportunity to arrange your visit up until the beginning of the coming year, we understand that it is hard to contain the immense enthusiasm that beautiful ice rings tend to cause!

Credit: @Natural History Museum

Top 7 Tips to Help You Work from Home

by Nina Christopoulou

Working from home is preferable to commuting all the way to work or even your uni’s library. In order to be effective, though, discipline is key! We have gathered our top tips and tricks of the trade to help you out in this demanding process…

7. Set your goals

Working without a boss keeping you in check is definitely not as motivating. Time to become your own boss: set your goals for the week or the month, and keep them visible – hang them on a wall or even your fridge. This will help you stay focused!

Credit: @Nicole 🌸 Plans That Blossom

6. Make a to-do list (duh!)

As obvious as that one may be, it is easier said than done. So our tip is having your dedicated “To-Do List” notepad on your homemade work station, so you can see it and pick it up every single day. That feeling of crossing stuff off your list is unbeatable!

Credit: @Gigi • An Organised Hustler

5. Set the mood

As silly as it may seem, it’s the little things that make the difference. Anything from mood boards, to scented candles or Alpha Wave YouTube videos that help with concentration, there are always things you can do to boost your productivity levels. Do a little research, and come up with the best ambiance for you.

Credit: @Desk Life Bliss|Mariam A.

4. Veto your weekends

Weekends are sacred, and should stay that way. Well, except for deadline periods obviously! But when it comes to working from home, taking that well-deserved weekend off is mandatory so that weekdays can be productive enough.

Credit: @Drinks in the Air

3. The early-bird catches the worm

There’s a reason that this saying exists. Make a habit of waking up at a more or so set time, before 10 o’clock, and help yourself organise your life and consequently your work a little better…

Credit: @🌴 Warsaw Jungle 🌴

2. Seize the daylight

Sunshine in London is not as often as one would want. Therefore, it would make sense that when the sun’s out, you should be too! One of the benefits of creating your own schedule is being able to customise your breaks – so make a habit of chasing the sun and you will feel the difference in productivity levels.

Credit: @Melody Sanderson 👑

1. Keep in mind your me-time

Working from home can easily go over-board once you go into full-blown work craze! Don’t forget that me-time is important, especially given the time you will spend locked up at home. Do your best to socialise, take that gym break and enjoy yourself (preferably outside of the house!).

Credit: @B&K✈️ @ St Petersburg 📍

Top 7 Spots for Foodies

by Nina Christopoulou

1. Duck & Waffle

This 24 hour spot has the best of both worlds: an intriguing menu coupled with an astounding view. Located at the top of Heron Tower, think London at your feet when booking your window table. Their signature dish, conveniently synonymous to the restaurant, is an exquisite balance among sweet and savoury and comes with the highest of recommendations.

Credit: @Duck & Waffle

2. Punjab

The multicultural aspect of London’s food scene is undeniable, and yet it is not the easiest of tasks to find genuine flavors that will entertain your taste buds. Punjab is a wonderful exception to the rule, offering traditional Indian food – in the menu you will find traditional tandoori dishes and Punjabi specialties that will satisfy even the strictest foodie around.

Credit: @PriyankaU

3. Poppies

It would be shameful not to have the best Fish and Chips joint in London on a Top 7 of foodie spots. That’s why Poppies made the cut! The décor is commonly referred to as kitsch, and yet the food is something they know how to make. So head out to Poppies to get a taste for the most famed British meal out there!

Credit: @Infatuation London

4. The Wolseley

This one is your typical good-at-everything spot. There is not one single option on the menu that will disappoint you, but we would have to add that brunch is what they know how to do best. Londoners have a tendency of raving about Wolseley’s Egg Benedicts, and we would have to side with them on this one.

Credit: @The Wolseley

5. Burger & Lobster

Bookings are not an option in this sort-of-always-packed restaurant, and that is the only downside we can think of. Lobster is their specialty, but their menu does not have a dish that you wouldn’t want to try on to be frank. Out of the three lobster options, our vote is on the lobster roll – a quirky dish that lives up to a foodie’s high expectations!

Credit: @👩🏻‍🍳 Morgan / NYC / Barnard 🍕🍷

6. Santa Maria Pizzeria

When it comes to pizza, there are a lot of places that do it well. Santa Maria though, does pizza better than all of them combined. The selection is very generous, with nduja and burrata among the many ingredients you can pick out. All in all, their wood-fired oven does a great job whatever your pick may be.

Credit: @Santa Maria

7. The Breakfast Club

The quirky and cute interior is just a compliment to the mostly-brunch like options on the menu. Yet the star of the show is the Full Monty, a proper full English complete with black pudding, mushrooms, beans and obviously the sausage and the bacon. Can someone call themselves a proper foodie without having given the full English a go?

Credit: @The Breakfast Club Cafes

Top 7 Things to do in August

by Nina Christopoulou

Every month the events guide for London gets richer and richer. August is no exception, with many exciting new things to do and see! We’ve gathered our top picks, although we do have to admit it was tough narrowing the choices down to just seven.

7. Zip Now London

How do you feel about the possibility of zooming mid-air pretty high up above London? If you are up for it, Zip Now London and its 225-meter zip line are awaiting your arrival. The views are majestic, but consider yourselves warned: this is not an activity for the faint of heart!

Credit: @Zip Now London

6. Movies on the River

Are you a movie freak? Then we have just the experience for you! Head down to Tower Millennium Pier and welcome aboard the floating cinema of your dreams. Take a cruise while watching the famous classics of the likes of “Jaw” and “Dirty Dancing”. You still have time until mid-September!

Credit: @Marlin London

5. BBC Proms

BBC Proms is one of the most renowned classical music festivals, bringing us two whole months of informal concerts in collaboration with Royal Albert Hall and other venues across London. Its aim is simple – bringing classical music at affordable prices and informal settings for all to enjoy. So have a look at their schedule asap!

Credit: @BBC Proms

4. Film4 Summer Screen

Somerset House is mesmerizing to gaze at, that’s probably why whenever it orchestrates an event people flock to it. The Film4 Summer Screen could not have been any different – but perhaps the fact that it is London’s largest outdoor screen also helps. So pick your favorite movie, bring a picnic and enjoy the summer vibes!

Credit: @Somerset House

3. Underbelly Festival

The Underbelly Festival has been going on for some time now, and will stick around with us until the end of September. So there is still plenty of time left to enjoy the various activities it has prepared for us: circus, theatre, cabaret, comedy and of course music among many others are all included in the festival which takes place at South Bank. Head to their website to see when the best time for you to pop in is!

Credit: @Underbelly Festival

2. Ladbrokes Challenge Cup

The Ladbrokes Challenge Cup is a must-see. The Rugby League season with all its ups and downs culminates in the final battle among the country’s best two teams at Wembley Stadium. The fast-paced on-field action is bound to turn you into a rugby enthusiast in no time (August 25th!).

Credit: @Ash Allen

1. Notting Hill Carnival

London’s famous Notting Hill carnival is back! The annual extravaganza takes place on the streets of West London each year on the last weekend of August. This year that would be on the 25-27 of August, and we suggest you make your way to the Carnival to enjoy the colorful floats and performers, the intriguing music and food stalls!

Credit: @NottingHillCarnival

Top Outdoor Activities in London

by Nina Christopoulou

The sun is out, greenery abounds and all in all there is absolutely no reason for you to stay indoors. Especially given the awesome outdoor activities around London! We did some research, and here are our suggestions on the best, most exhilarating outdoor activities at the moment. Be warned, most of them require some form of physical exercise!

6. Well, obviously… SWIMMING!

The Brockwell Lido is commonly referred to as an «art deco gem». Situated in South London, it was built back in 1937 (fear not, it was renovated fully in 2007). Its poolside cafe is versatile enough to turn into a bar and restaurant as the day progresses, and trully makes your day as cool as possible. Added plus? It is budget friendly!

Credit: @Brockwell Lido

5. How about those rollerblades?

If you are a beginner, fear not. Battersea Park is an incredible place to rollerblade and it is beginner-friendly too. The views along your rollerblading route are awesome, with the lake, zoo and Thames to gaze at as you pass by. There are also many free skating groups during the weekend too, if you care for some company!

Credit: @The Galeries

4. Kayaking anyone?

Have you heard of West Reservoir? Well, you have now! This not-very-well-known watersports center is located just off Green Lanes, on Stoke Newington, and it has many options to choose from. Whether you are up for a sailing course or would rather kayak (we know that would be our pick!), it is a great excursion and a fun filled activity.

Credit: @Paddling Magazine

3. Ever tried power-kiting?

Richmond Park is a wander to roam around, but also offers so many outdoor activities to choose from. Horse-riding, fishing and many more are available, but we decided to let you know of a more extreme one: power-kiting. Not sure what it is? Well, that is when you are pulled along by a kite when sitting on a buggy, standing on a landboard or wearing inline skates. It is a thrilling experience, and guess what? There is also the winter option, when there’s enough snow!

Credit: @KITEMANA.COM | TOM & JOSHA

2. The O2 Climb

This cool 1.5-hour climbing experience is not to be missed! In case you didn’t know (and why would you?), the O2 is a 52-meter-tall structure, near North Greenwich tube station. This means that climbing all the way to the top gives you an unobstructed 360-degree view of UK’s capital. What could be more thrilling than that? Oh yes, that would be our number 1 pick…

Credit: @🌸Lucy English 🌸

1. Zip Now London is on!

So here is the deal: you launch from 35 meters, and go through three 225-meter zip wires with speeds reaching up to 50 kph. The experience is one of a lifetime, the view of London extreme and overall it adds up to a total of 45 minutes. And for the cherry on top: you can choose to have the “mega drop” freefall experience! You can go ahead and guess what this one entails…

Credit: @Zip Now London

Top Things To Do in London This July

by Nina Christopoulou

July is turning out jam packed in events, activities and fun opportunities for Londoners. While the list of events we uncovered was too long to handle, we tried to narrow down our top picks, and make your life easier with this list:

BMW Classics

This new comer is bound to excite the crowds, with the world-class music presented in “one of the world’s most iconic public spaces”, as the London Symphony Orchestra site itself states. In case you were wondering, yes that would be Trafalgar Square! The open-air concert is free, and Sir Simon Rattle and the London Symphony Orchestra are bound to take your breath away on Sunday, July 1st.

Credit: @London Symphony Orchestra

Pride in London

The Festival takes place starting June, yet the Parade is considered its peak and it is definitely worth a visit. On July 7th prepare for an incredible parade through central London, which comes together in Trafalgar Square with a series of performances that should not be missed. Join the crowds and celebrate London’s LGBT+ community in the most enjoyable way possible this July!

Credit: @OxfordStreetw1

Lovebox

Gunnersbury Park welcomes grime, electro, soul, R&B and more sounds at the two day musical celebrations. Groove Amanda founded the festival 16 years ago, and by now it has built a reputation for itself, as evident by the headlining acts featuring Childish Gambino, Diplo, Wu-Tang Clan and more. With festival stalls covering you in glitter and vintage markets, this festival has it all! So save the date(s) – you know what to do July 13th & 14th!

Credit: @Lovebox Festival

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships

The annual tennis match is one of the biggest sporting events of the year, not to be missed! One of four annual Grand Slam tennis events globally, Wimbledon attracts over half a million visitors and for good reason. So hurry up and book your tickets asap, the championships will be held only until July 15th!

Credit: @Wimbledon

Summer Streets

Prep yourself for a traffic free Regent Street this July! During four Sundays this month, the central shopping spot will be rid of cars from Oxford Circus all the way down to Piccadilly Circus. It will offer its guests a festival-like vibe, as the stores are fiercely preparing for the event! (July 1, 8, 15 and 22)

Credit: @Dr H Al-Barjas PhD FRCS(UK)

London National Park City Week

This city has so many oasis of greenery, it was bound to schedule some sort of celebration of its parks. In its aim of becoming the world’s first National Park City in 2019, London will work towards promoting the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the green spaces around the city during a fun-packed week!

Credit: @Steve

RAF100

The Royal Air Force is celebrating 100 years since its formation, and London has a multitude of celebrations in store to commemorate the event. From Foundation Day at the RAF Museum, to a Family Spitfire Run, the events organised are versatile and perfect for all ages and interests! Our recommendation for July is the Aircraft Tour at Horse Guards Parade, on July 6-9.

Credit: @John

Top Coffee Spots in London Vol. I

by Nina Christopoulou

Coffee is an essential start (and continuation if I may add), to the day for students and professionals alike. In the abundance of offerings that London has, coffee spots could not be the exception. We gathered the best coffee spots around town so you know which ones are a must-visit for coffee aficionados.

1. Kaffeine

Fitzrovia is a go-to place for cute coffee shops, but Kaffeine definitely takes the lead with its innovative approach of bringing global coffee roasters to the centre of London and its emphasis on the unique blends it has to offer. The breakfast and lunch menu made from seasonal ingredients compliments the incredible coffee, whereas the cute interior and polite staff simply enhance the experience.

Credit: @Kaffeine London

2. Brooklyn

The unique, minimal and clean aesthetic of Brooklyn coffee is inspired by none other than the Brooklyn area of NY. Owners Bryan and Reina have managed to create a small oasis amidst generally similar coffee shop designs. With their Caravan beans (famous for their quality around London) they have been able to create a cold brew that has spread through word-of-mouth as quite excellent.

Credit: @Brooklyn Coffee

3. Carpo

Carpo does not initially seem like a coffee spot, with its immense selection of fresh roasted nuts and dried fruits taking the lead at first glance. The varied selection of coffee beans, however, and its Freddo Espresso made by Greek standards have rendered it a hotspot for coffee connoisseurs around the city. Carpo Knightsbridge, the newest addition to the chain, has an interior design worth checking out.

Credit: @Carpo

4. Caravan

Caravan is a three in one combo, as it is a cafe, roasters and restaurant all at the same time. Its brunch menu is exquisite, while an added plus is their use of compostable takeaway cups and straws. Famed for its coffee, it is definitely a must visit!

Credit: @Sara Xue Feng

5. Attendant

I will have to state that, other than the use of Caravan beans and the committed barista who always pays attention to detail, this coffee spot makes the list for its interior as well. Situated since January 2013 in a late-nineteenth century gents’ toilet, it is most definitely an innovative concept. The urinals are even placed in the sitting space. Feel free to pay a visit and see how many jokes you can come up with while sipping your coffee!

Credit: @Attendant Coffee Roasters

6. Dark Habit Coffee

In a generally coffee “uninspired” area of London, Dark Habit is cute, interesting and serves incredible coffee. For the most part dedicated to Workshop coffee beans, it tends to extend its selection to other beans from all over the UK. Care to try it out?

Credit: @Dark Habit Coffee

7. Coffee Island

At a quiet spot among Covent Garden and Leicester Square, Coffee Island is the London location for one of the most renowned Greek coffee chains. Its dedication to bringing you the strong taste and scent of high quality coffee has made it a favourite among those who have tried it. If you had to choose one coffee to taste, though, that would have to be their Freddos – Espresso or Cappuccino, you can not go wrong!

Credit: @Coffee Island UK

8. Ozone Coffee Roasters

The different brewing methods that Ozone sports mean that their single origin coffees are elevated depending on your pick – Aeropress, Syphon or other. It also doubles as a store for the coffee connoisseur who would like to make one of the many coffee kits their own.

Credit: @Ozone Coffee Roasters UK

9. Catalyst

This Scandi-style spot is everything you didn’t know you were looking for. The food is good, which is a plus, the cocktail list is sufficient – given the shop’s overall façade – but the coffee is the main focus. The roaster in the basement and the coffee gadgets on display hint to the quality of the coffee served, while the relaxing environment with minimal design makes you feel like you will visit the place over and over in the future.

Credit: @James Ting

10. Department of Coffee and Social Affairs

Truth is, the place had me the moment I heard the name. Because if you have put so much imagination into the name of your shop, then chances are the shop itself will be great. And truth is, DCSA is pretty awesome. The interior is fun with the red brick details making it stand out from the crowd, and the staff are always polite as can be. As for the coffee… well it is great, and so are the cute foam decorations that it always comes with.

Credit: @mar

Top 9 Ice-Cream Spots in London

by Nina Christopoulou

As the sun makes more and more appearances in the otherwise gloomy British capital, we could not help ourselves but put together a post about the most essential summer treat: ice-cream. And London has so much to offer when it comes to gelato! Our 9 favourite ice-cream spots around the city are officially here:

Gelupo

The fresh mint stracciatella is rightfully considered a top pick, in this beautiful ice-cream parlour. Its reputation has made it a household name among foodies around the city and for good reason!

Credit: @the56.

La Gelateria

The name is a hint for the traditional Italian taste that awaits you. It has managed to gather an amazing collection of foodie awards, and would you like to know the best part? Everything is made on site daily! Drop by the Covent Garden branch to see the ice cream in the making and prepare yourselves for the treat that is ahead of you.

Credit: @La Gelatiera – Artisan Gelato

Amorino

The flavours are mostly classic, but the presentation has a twist: the ice cream is placed in the cone in the shape of flower petals. Photogenic, tasty and refreshing all in one. What more could one ask for?

Credit: @MARIANELA GETTE 🍉

Ruby Violet

An attraction in both its locations (Tufnell Park and King’s Cross that is), the ethically sourced ingredients, free-range eggs and organic milk that they use equal to pureness in every bite (or lick, in this case). The word-of-mouth recommendations have rendered Ruby Violet a favourite for Londoners.

Credit: @Ruby Violet

Yorica

Allergen-free and vegan ice-cream and shake choices are what you will find at Yorica. Its selection is mouth-watering and the environment cute as can be, with locations in Notting Hill and Wardour Street.
The ice-creams are pretty picture-perfect too!

Credit: @vegan teen🌱

Udderlicious

You see the shop and simply want to go in, before you even realise that it is one of the best ice-cream shops in the city! What’s more, the couple which opened it (coincidentally called Raj and Raj) hold an ongoing competition for flavour of the month picked out by customers. Would you like to guess the prize? Ice-cream on the house for an entire month!

Credit: @Udderlicious Ice Cream

Milk Train

The stuff dreams are made of: Milk Train’s candy floss cone is not primarily Instagrammable, it is more importantly like bites of heaven melting in your mouth. The photos, as impressive as they may be, do not do justice to the ice-cream itself!

Credit: @Holly 🐆 | London Blogger

Chin Chin Dessert Club

The traditional flavours are always nice when it comes to ice-cream, but about something a little more extreme? Halva black tahini or coffee with olive oil for example… As extreme as they may sound Chin Chin Dessert Club serves them alongside all time classics such as burnt butter caramel. Whatever the choice, you will not regret trying this spot out!

Credit: @Chin Chin Labs/Dessert Club

Soft Serve Society

This list has been a challenge to create not only because I am an ice-cream lover myself, but mainly because in order to do a countdown you have to have a favourite. Tough choice when London has so many gelato options at your disposal. I would have to admit, however, that Soft Serve Society is a personal favourite: the charcoal and coconut flavour is unique as it is delicious, while the selection of sundaes is mind blowing. Definitely a must!

Credit: @Νίνα ➰

Top 5 student apps you need in your life

by Nina Christopoulou

For better or for worse, we live in an era where our phones are an extension of our existence, and we rely on our apps for all sorts of everyday tasks. So it makes sense that there would be apps specifically tailored to combat some of the greatest problems that students face. Let’s take a closer look at them:

1. Student Beans

Discount hunting is an essential aspect of the “being on a budget” mentality that most of us around the globe adopt. Student Beans makes bargain hunting easier than anyone could have imagined – railcards, clothing, food, you name it – Student Beans has a discount on it!

Credit: @Student Beans

2. Student Chef

The name is pretty clear in itself, but in case you are still wondering: Student Chef is an app that has quick, cheap and delicious recipes. Their layout is convenient, as it lets you know on the top of each recipe the time you will need, the level of difficulty and the cost in pounds as well. The perfect end to those long stays at the supermarket, trying to pick out your supplies for the week!

Credit: @Bùi Chiến

3. UNiDAYS

From technology, food, stationary to most brands a student will want UNiDAYS has it all! The perfect app for a student’s phone, you will soon find out that it is the one that you open almost as often as your social media accounts.

Credit: @UNiDAYS

4. The Trainline

Commuting made easy. No need to be at the station to find out timetables, buy tickets and frantically search for the platform you need to be in ASAP. The Trainline lets you do everything online – all you need to do then is show up!

Credit: @Trainline

5. The Wetherspoons App

Remember that feeling when your friend leaves the table to order your drinks, and you search for your phone so you can pretend you are busy until they come back? The Wetherspoons app put a stop to those uncomfortable settings by bringing your food and drinks to you. It can even remember your last order, so you don’t forget somebody’s drink when buying rounds!

Credit: @One Drink A Day (heebs)

7 Tips on Finding a Summer Internship in London

by Nina Christopoulou

Student life has its ups and downs, but one thing is for sure: it doesn’t last forever! While London has plenty of job opportunities, securing an internship during summer is the preferred way to go in terms of entering the UK job market and gaining some valued UK experience for your following endeavours. So, let’s have a look at the top tips to find a summer internship in the UK:

1. Oh, the Internet!

And by “Oh, the Internet!” I mean the top portals to hunt for internships. They are a good place to start your search and will definitely inspire you to think outside the box when it comes to potential employers. The must-know are:
– targetjobs.co.uk/internships
– ratemyplacement.co.uk/internships
– studentjob.co.uk/internship

Credit: @Minimal Office Setup

2. Cover Letters matter

Most applications in the UK require a cover letter accompanying your CV. Unfortunately, writing one is a lengthy process and a tricky one at that. If you want to amp your chances at landing an interview, carefully look through the job description and do some research into the company you are applying for. A set-template for a cover letter won’t do, you will need to tailor the content to each application.

Credit: @Marjan Glavac

3. Sell your skills

Experience, or lack thereof is not of central importance to internship applications. But what does matter, is how you present it. Always think in terms of applicable skills when doing either your CV or the cover letter – knowing another language is a communicational skill that services inter-cultural communication. Having done a semester abroad entails adaptability to diverse and challenging environments. So try to make the most out of what you’ve got!

Credit: @Lindsay

4. Use those alumni portals

Normal search methods are good, but if you want to go for “great”, you will need to go the extra mile. Universities have alumni portals which help you get in touch with your uni’s former students who are now professionals and potentially professionals in your area of interest. Hunting them down on alumni portals and making a LinkedIn connection or sending them a friendly message is always a good way to unearth potential positions that have not opened up yet.

Credit: @Fiona Minett | Boss Your PR

5. Start your search early

The UK market is time-sensitive when it comes to graduate schemes, summer internships and the lot. So starting your search as early as possible could make all the difference – if you are a last minute type of person there is a good chance that by the time you start working on those applications you will have much less opportunities to apply for.

Credit: @Essentials

6. Do your homework

Gotten that sought-after interview you wanted? Great, but your work doesn’t stop there. Before going to meet your interviewer, it is important to do your homework both in the industry and in the company. Important things to be aware of are the company’s strong and weak points, their greatest competitors, their overall mentality and obviously the industry’s landscape.

Credit: @the darling deskscape

7. Get feedback

Feedback is key to improving both your existing process as well as landing an actual job faster when it comes down to it. It is great to get as much feedback as you can during your search for an internship: friends, professors, your uni’s career advisors, even potential interviewers can give you feedback on what it is that you can improve when it comes to your demeanour, CV or Cover Letter.

Credit: @Invoice By Alto