Taking the leap and going for a relevant student job

Before AAU, Hoàng didn’t put much thought into finding a study relevant student job. However, that changed when he started at AAU.

“I was kind of satisfied with a non-study related part time job for too long, I think. It took me a big leap into quitting my job and spending more time and effort on job search.

His updates were highly inspired by the inputs he got from career workshops, career guidance and similar profiles on LinkedIn. He was looking for other people on LinkedIn who work in the same field and got inspired by them and the skills they described.

Actually, several recruiters contacted Hoàng through LinkedIn.

“I got contacted primarily about open positions. I of course accepted to connect, replied in a timely manner whether I would like to proceed or not. With the positions that I was interested in, I did send my CV and cover letter.”

“I guess the key to LinkedIn is to put in rich keywords, competencies and endorsed skills as well as logging in regularly. Danish employers do really look into your LinkedIn profile, so it is better to have a well-tailored profile!”

2 student jobs - challenging but rewarding

“Now that I got not only one but 2 student jobs at the same time, I think the time and effort was totally worth it.”

“Having 2 jobs as the same time is very challenging, as you have to kind of divide your brain capacity and focus power, which might result in a more shallow and unproductive performance.”

“As for my case, I really need to go extra miles in supplementing and gaining more working experience, hence the decision to keep 2 jobs. Fortunately, one of them is kind of like a hobby to me, so I thought why not take that as an advantage – leisure and work at the same time!”

Understanding Denmark and getting a network

One of the challenges Hoàng faced in Denmark was the lack of references and recommendations that come by having a professional network locally.

“I have heard many international friends blaming the language barriers, lack of network or experience, when their job search does not end in a job, or worse, even before applying for the job.”

“Maybe the challenges lie in the lack of knowledge in understanding the Danish working culture and how to apply for a job – in a Danish way. The strict organisational hierarchy does not seem to prevail in Danish working environment, a more personal and informal approach is welcome.”

Hoàng recommends putting yourself out here:

“I think the best way is to put your shoes through the door, be it a cleaning or delivery job. Be open and tell your network that you are looking for jobs. I got a part time job in a supermarket thanks to a short chat with the cashier!“

Career guidance did a difference

In closing, Hoàng recommends getting a free career guidance session at AAU:

"I got great help in writing my CV, upgrading my competencies-telling and hence boosting my confidence significantly in writing cover letters. Confidence is key, mark my words."