Bridging the Gap: How the Alumni Internship Programme is Helping Equip UCU Students for the Professional World

Inside UCU

By Kim Donaldson and Elise Gipmans

The transition from academia to the workforce can be challenging, especially for graduates of multidisciplinary programmes like UCU’s, where broad academic knowledge must be translated into industry-specific skills. At UCU, resources like the tutor system and the Futures Centre offer students support; however, there is an opportunity to build on these foundations by providing even more tailored career guidance. These challenges are further compounded by impending budget cuts to UCU's programme. While creating constraints, these challenges also present an opportunity to explore innovative solutions and partnerships that can continue to support students in meaningful ways.

The 2024 alumni survey revealed that, while 60% of UCU graduates valued their broad education, some wished for more experiences that bolstered business and technical skills. Initiatives like the Alumni Internship Programme (AIP) are working to help bridge the post-graduate gap by connecting students with alumni who offer internships and mentorship. This initiative strengthens the link between UCU’s academic foundation and the professional world, equipping students with practical experience and valuable guidance.

The AIP enables students to gain critical skills in a supportive environment while providing alumni with bright, motivated interns who bring fresh perspectives. Success stories like those of alumnus Pieter van Eig ‘18, who has hosted AIP interns, and former intern Zaza Ferjancsik ‘25 highlight the programme’s ability to foster adaptability, creative problem-solving, and professional confidence.

Pieter van Eig ’18 on the Power of Mentorship for Students

Pieter van Eig '18, co-founder of Equinox Solar Insights, has hosted AIP interns for the last two years. Pieter’s academic background in chemistry and earth and environmental sciences at UCU laid the foundation for his career in sustainable innovation.

“For startups like ours, hiring interns is a great way to bring on highly skilled individuals, especially when we’re unable to offer the competitive salaries larger companies can provide,” Pieter explains. He values the mutual benefit of the AIP, saying, “I love matching with students, mentoring them, and sharing my own experiences.” With a background similar to many of the interns he supervises, Pieter recognises their challenges and aspirations, particularly the uncertainties about future career paths when you’re in your early 20s.

Pieter believes the AIP stands out for its practical benefits to students. "It's a great opportunity for students to experience the process of applying for a position in a low-pressure yet realistic way,” he says. He emphasises that the programme teaches students the "art of showing up"—being present and committed, even in uncertain circumstances.

Reflecting on his UCU experience, Pieter recalls, “Back then, career guidance wasn’t a strong focus. I remember a tutor recommending I explore the UU job bank and attend open evenings for inspiration.” Despite this, he believes the challenges helped shape his outlook. “In a way, the lack of guidance is the guidance,” Pieter reflects, learning early that "no one will hold your hand when you step into the working world." He credits UCU with teaching adaptability, a crucial skill for his entrepreneurial journey. “You learn to adapt quickly and take ownership, which is great preparation for life after university."

Would he have participated in AIP as a student? “Absolutely. I would have loved to participate in an internship during my time at UCU.” He sees great value in gaining early work experience and forming mentorship-like relationships with someone 5 to 10 years ahead in their career. "Having guidance from someone with more experience would have been helpful."

Zaza Ferjancsik ’25 on the Value of Internship Experience

Zaza interned with Pieter Van Eig in the summer of 2024. For Zaza, the AIP offered a chance to gain meaningful professional experience while enhancing his résumé.

During his internship, Zaza gained hands-on experience with tasks like market research, lead generation, and SEO. "I learned how to work in a company, report to superiors, and navigate business language and etiquette," he shares. Working in a fast-paced startup environment taught Zaza to think on his feet. "This experience encouraged me to pick up skills quickly and get familiar with different tasks."

Zaza says the application process itself was a valuable learning curve. "Submitting my résumé, writing a cover letter, and going through multiple interview rounds gave me great practice while the stakes were lower," he explains. "The feedback I received from interviewers will help me in the future."

When asked about his thoughts on career guidance at UCU, Zaza reflects, "More career guidance and internship opportunities at UCU are needed. Simple conversations with people in the field can make a big difference in helping students grasp what it's like to work in various roles.”

Would he participate in AIP as an alumnus? “Definitely. UCU students have bright and flexible minds, making them applicable in various fields and jobs.” Reflecting on his connection to UCU, Zaza adds, “I feel a special connection to UCU, and that would encourage me to stay involved and give back.”

Opportunities for Growth

AIP Board - Lexi Wiberg '26 and Elise Gipmans '26

Despite its successes, the AIP faces challenges, including low visibility and reliance on personal networks. Many students only find out about the AIP late in their UCU journey, which limits their options. Students have also highlighted that the programme could use a wider variety of internships to reflect UCU’s diversity. Additionally, the student-run model presents continuity challenges. Frequent board turnover disrupts contacts and priorities, making it harder to build momentum year over year.

These challenges present valuable opportunities to expand and diversify the programme in ways that better serve all students. They also highlight an opportunity for the AIP to strengthen its structure and seek collaboration with UCU resources like the UCU Alumni Office and the Futures Centre to ensure greater consistency and impact.

Results from the 2024 UCU Alumni Survey highlight alumni willingness to work with current students.

Get Involved: Shape the Future of UCU Students

The success of the AIP relies on alumni involvement. In the 2024 alumni survey, over 50% of alumni respondents expressed a desire to connect with students and share professional insights. By offering mentorship, hosting interns, or sharing expertise, alumni can provide students with essential guidance and hands-on experience.

The AIP team is committed to strengthening the programme, but alumni participation is crucial. Together, we can ensure that UCU students are well-prepared to transition into the professional world and make an impact in their careers. Join the AIP and help shape the future of UCU students!