Harriet's Experience

 joined the Suffolk Graduate Partnership Scheme in 2024, after graduating from the University of Southampton with a degree in Politics and International Relations. Having only recently moved to Suffolk, I was also looking for an opportunity to learn more about the county and develop my professional skills, the graduate scheme seemed like the perfect way to do both.

My first placement was with Suffolk County Council within Adult Social Care. During this placement, I supported a variety of projects and programmes aimed at improving services for Suffolk residents. Working within Adult Social Care gave me valuable insight into the challenges facing the sector, as well as the vital role local government plays in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

My second placement was with East Suffolk Council in the Solutions Management Team. This role focused on supporting projects and initiatives designed to improve waste and recycling services across the district. While ‘waste’ may not sound like the most glamorous topic at first, I quickly discovered it's an area that affects every resident, every day, and involves far more planning, collaboration and innovation than most people realise.

Alongside my placements, I successfully completed the Level 4 Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship. This qualification strengthened my understanding of project management and best practice, while giving me the opportunity to apply what I was learning to real projects. Combining study with full-time work was certainly challenging at times, but it was incredibly rewarding and helped me build confidence in managing projects, engaging stakeholders and supporting programme delivery.

One of the highlights of the scheme has been the opportunity to meet and learn from professionals working across multiple councils and organisations. I've also had the chance to work alongside fellow graduates from different backgrounds and disciplines. It has been reassuring to know that whenever one of us was trying to figure something out, there was usually another graduate doing exactly the same thing.

Reflecting on my experience, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities the Suffolk Graduate Partnership Scheme has provided. The support from managers, colleagues and partner organisations has been invaluable in helping me develop both professionally and personally. Following the graduate scheme, I chose to continue my career in local government and accepted a new role as a Project Officer with Suffolk County Council.

If, like me, you're unsure exactly where your career path might lead after university, the graduate scheme provides an excellent place to start while opening doors you may not even have known existed.