Earlier this year CareersBU supported 16 students and graduates to attend the Bath Employment Support School for Autism (BESSA) 2024 to help prepare and build confidence for the world of work after university.
BESSA is designed to give students and graduates (with or without an autism diagnosis) support and guidance on their transition from university to the world of work. Run by the Centre for Applied Autism Research (CAAR) at the University of Bath, and JP Morgan (JPM), attendees had the chance to explore their strengths, develop job application skills, hear about disclosure and reasonable adjustments as well as network with attendees and autism-friendly organisations. The event took place over two days - the first being at Bath University and the second at JP Morgan in Bournemouth.
This is the second year that CareersBU have supported students and graduates to attend the event. Each year BU students have found the opportunity invaluable to support their future employability and build confidence after their studies.
BU student, Tahira, who attended the event this year shared:
I enjoyed meeting other autistic individuals. It made me feel like I fit in for once. I didn’t feel uncomfortable around the other people. BESSA helped me understand that not all employers are out to get people like me and that some do actually want to help provide adjustments and make things accessible.’
If you’re interested in attending BESSA in 2025, please email [email protected] to register your interest. You can also visit MyCareerHub to access the full range of CareersBU support including appointments, events and resources.
If you would also benefit from support throughout your time at university, the Disability & Additional Learning Support Team (ALS) are here for you – To provide information, advice and guidance to support students with disabilities.
