The Graduate Ambassador programme matches recent University of Southampton graduates with volunteering opportunities across our community. From career talks to workshops and one-to-one coaching, they give authentic insight into post-University life and the doors a Southampton education can open.

This year, we are especially proud to welcome our first cohort of 13 Graduate Ambassadors based in China. These recent graduates will share their personal journeys with current and prospective students from the region.

Hartley News spoke to two of the Graduate Ambassadors to find out more.

Now working in China’s entertainment industry as a project manager in casting and artist coordination, Boya is using her experience to support current and prospective students. She is passionate about sharing honest insights into the creative industries, helping students better understand career opportunities and build confidence in pursuing ambitious and unconventional career paths.

Boya says, “Becoming a Graduate Ambassador has been a meaningful way for me to stay connected with the University and support students who are beginning to think about their own futures. I know that moving from university into professional life can feel exciting but also uncertain, especially for international students. Through this programme, I hope to share honest experiences about building a career after graduation, adapting to new challenges and finding opportunities in the creative industries.

“As part of the first China-based cohort of Graduate Ambassadors, I am proud to represent the University of Southampton and connect with students from my region. I hope my journey encourages others to feel confident in pursuing their ambitions and making the most of the opportunities available to them during and after university.”

Siqi has already contributed as an Electronics and Computer Science faculty ambassador at the Shanghai Open Day, where he spoke with prospective students and parents about his experiences.

“As an Electrical and Electronic Engineering international student, I know how tough it can be at first with the coursework, culture shock, and just figuring out life in a new country. Having other students share their real experiences helped me a tonne, so now I want to do the same for others. I genuinely enjoy helping out and sharing my own ups and downs, whether it’s about labs, deadlines, or where to find good food nearby – just real talk from someone who gets it.”

Alongside their volunteering, our ambassadors benefit from tailored skills development and career support, helping them grow professionally while giving back. As Siqi says, “Even though I am still relatively new to the programme, I have already benefitted from the career support it offers. For instance, the team has shared useful websites that list graduate roles and internship opportunities, which I was not aware of before. As an international student navigating an unfamiliar job market, I found this guidance particularly valuable. I look forward to continuing to develop my skills further through the programme.

Alongside the Graduate Ambassador programme, Southampton’s new Career Advantage initiative addresses a key concern among international students: how to turn a world-class degree into meaningful global career opportunities. It reflects a shift from education as a purely academic journey to one that is deliberately career-integrated, ensuring students are equipped to succeed in competitive job markets in the UK and beyond.

What sets Career Advantage apart is its structured, end-to-end approach. Employability is embedded from the outset, with tailored guidance, skills workshops, and employer engagement helping students build confidence and cultural fluency in unfamiliar recruitment landscapes.

The initiative also tackles barriers such as visa complexities, limited networks, and differing recruitment expectations, demonstrating a commitment not just to access, but to outcomes.

Alumni and supporters have a vital role to play. Graduate Ambassadors have been confirmed as speakers for the upcoming Career Ready+ webinars, where they will share insights from their university experiences and career journeys. Several serve as mentors through the E-Mentoring platform. And all are actively involved in the alumni community in China, helping to welcome and support returning students as they transition back home after completing their studies.

Whether through mentorship, networking, or industry insight, can you help international students build connections, unlock opportunities, and realise their full potential?

Find out more: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/study/career-advantage

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