Preparing students for the university-to-work transition

This chapter focuses on preparing students for the university-to-work transition, predominantly from the perspectives of graduate recruiters and recruitment agency representatives acting on behalf of organizations. First, the university-to-work transition is defined, and the benefits organizations can expect from hiring graduates are considered. Next, the Graduate Recruitment Attraction Matrix (GRAM) is introduced, encompassing twenty-five activities to enhance talent attraction efforts and prepare students for undertaking the university-to-work transition. The four quadrants that form the GRAM are subsequently explored, followed by the activities grouped into six themes: (i) careers fairs, (ii) presentations and panel events, (iii) sponsorship and ambassador roles, (iv) networking and mentoring, (v) experience opportunities, and (vi) diversity-focused events. The chapter concludes with four lived experience insights offering real-world examples of the challenges and opportunities associated with preparing students for the university-to-work transition