History Graduate to Civil Service Fast Stream

 

Jake (on the left) with the other History graduate panel members at the Futures Fair 

 

We caught up with History graduate Jake Smith to find out about his journey from History student to Civil Service Fast Streamer.  

 

Tell us about your course and what you are up to now. 

I studied History with Foundation Year from 2019 until 2023. I am now a Strategy Advisor at the Cabinet Office, currently on loan to the Department of Health and Social Care.  

What was the process of applying and getting your job? 

I first found out about my graduate role through a careers fair organised by the University, held in the West Downs Centre. I had initially joined the Civil Service as an intern on the eight-week Summer Diversity Internship Programme in 2023 and was then asked to continue on through a fixed term appointment. During that time, I successfully applied for the Fast Stream, a graduate scheme in the Civil Service, which I began in October 2024. I have worked with DEFRA as a policy advisor in the area of illegal fishing as well as now working with the Department of Health and Social Care. 

How do you think studying History at Winchester prepared you for this?  

My degree prepared me for my role through teaching me critical thinking and analysis skills; how to work to a deadline; communicating with others; presentation skills; organisation and so much more. 

What advice would you give to History students thinking about what to do after their degree? 

Keep your mind open for any opportunity that comes along. Make sure to be personable and engage with the people behind the job offers when you can (emailing them and asking more about the role or sharing some of the reasons why you’re interested) as it can make a world of difference. 

What advice would you give to History students during their degree? 

My advice would be to engage with all of the opportunities at the University, like becoming a History Course Champion, being a tour guide when potential students visit at open days and really engage with your tutorials! 

 

During his time at Winchester, Jake took part in the photo shoot for the cover of the prospectus

 

What has been the most enjoyable part of your graduate role so far?  

So far, it has been all the exciting opportunities to work on international policy on behalf of the UK Government and meeting lots of different people that are on the same journey as me.

 

With many thanks to Jake for his time speaking to us and for inspiring current Winchester History Students at the Futures Fair organised by the Careers Team. 

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