Allen Adebayo, a Nigerian national and alumnus of UWS’s MSc Project Management program, has successfully navigated the UK job market to become a Project Manager at Leicester City Council. We sat down with him to get his expert advice on how to turn a degree into a career.
The job search was far from easy. Like many others, I initially struggled to understand the UK hiring process and adapt my CV to employer expectations. There are opportunities in the UK, but you need patience, persistence, and a strategy to win. From my research, I discovered that recruitment could take two to three months, so I began applying for jobs halfway through my dissertation, ensuring I would at least secure interviews soon after completing my MSc Project Management program.
There were moments of self-doubt, especially after receiving rejection emails. But I refused to allow setbacks to define me. I strongly believe that a closed door is not a rejection but a redirection to something greater. A key lesson I learned was the importance of having the right mindset. I kept reminding myself: I am the value. I am worth it. Like a salesperson who believes in their products, I knew I had to sell myself confidently. I saw every application and interview as an opportunity to sell my skills, experience, and the unique value I could bring to the organisation. If i don’t believe in myself, why should anyone else?
My time at UWS London prepared me to succeed in a fast-paced and diverse workplace. The critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills I developed have enabled me to adapt quickly, take initiative, and add value to my team. The faculty members were highly knowledge and always supportive, ensuring we built a strong theoretical foundation while also applying real-world case studies to our learning.
The next thing is skill mapping. I assessed my current skills set, past work experience, and the industries I had worked in, constantly asking: how do my existing skills apply here? Understanding how my expertise aligned with job requirements helped me position myself effectively in the market.
A crucial factor was seeking support. Speaking a career coach and utilising every available resource on campus helped me refine my job search strategy. UWS offer extensive career resources, including CV-writing sessions and a mentorship program, which I took full advantage of.
I see massive opportunities for growth. I am actively expanding my skill set, networking with professionals, and positioning myself for future leadership roles. So watch out for me!
On top of having the skills and knowledge, you need to be intentional about investing in relationships within and outside of your organisation. If opportunities are like doors, people are the key.
Allen Adebayo's journey is a testament to the practical skills and global perspective gained at UWS. To learn more about his experience, connect with him on LinkedIn.
