Graduating this year with a 2.2 degree?

So you have – or anticipate – a 2.ii.

What next?

1. Expecting a 2.ii because of a personal difficulties? Apply for mitigating circumstances.  Hindsight being 20/20, you can’t request this after the event.

2.  Some top companies DO consider a 2.ii.  Tap into the collective wisdom of your careers service, and prepare to also do your own research.

3. Small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) may be more interested in your potential than your degree class.  Names may be unfamiliar, training and prospects are sound.

4. Firms requiring 2.i minimum will reject you straight away.  Their loss. Focus on organisations which will appreciate you.

5. Exception to above:  if you possess “compensating factors” such as substantial hands-on skills, contact Graduate Recruitment and market these – before mentioning the 2.ii

You do the Maths.
Major graduate schemes recruit less than 15% of university leavers.  People with 2.is and even – gasp – Firsts are in the “thanks, but no thanks” category.  You are not alone.

Uplifting story
Once upon a time, our hero – let’s call him Joseph – couldn’t find graduate employment with his 2.ii.  He took an administrative job in his preferred sector and gave it his all, especially when liaising with big firms.  Twelve months later Joseph’s track record was so impressive that those same key players asked him aboard – at graduate level.

He lived happily ever after.

Moral: when the fast lane is closed, the B roads take longer – but you’ll get there in the end.

“No” now is not “no, never”. With experience, your class of degree becomes less relevant: you can move onwards, upwards and even into the premier league.

So….

You have – or anticipate – a 2.ii. Major misfortune or minor malfunction? You choose.

Gill Sharp
Careers Constultant – QM Careers

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