eXfactor: employability and professional development course

eXfactor is an award-winning course developed with you in mind - the first of its kind across all UK universities!

The two days of fun-packed learning are designed to help you plan your graduate career goals right at the beginning of your University experience!

eXfactor has recently been recognised for its outstanding contribution to preparing students for the world of work after graduation. It has recently won the 'Preparing Students for Employment' award, as well as the AGR's 'Graduate Development' award and the Blue Ribbon ''Best of the Best''. This is the first time a university has won all three awards and is a notable achievement for the University of Exeter.   

Who can take part?

As a first year student at the University of Exeter, we look forward to inviting you to take part in this interactive course which is packed with creative thinking, strategic games and early career planning. You can find your discipline's eXfactor session scheduled in your timetable.

If you have any queries about your timetabled session, please check with your College Employability Officer. 

Who delivers eXfactor?

It is led and facilitated by professional employment consultants and University staff.

Why is it important?

The student and graduate labour market has never been more complex in terms of the opportunities available. eXfactor is designed to give you an understanding of a variety of attributes, beside the ‘good degree’, that are commonly sought by employers.

It will also provide you with the opportunity to examine and reflect on your self-awareness, your skills and your future career.

What will I learn?

Various experiential learning activities will take place over the 2 days. You will be encouraged to plan a project, participate in team-led presentations, as well as self-evaluate and peer-review the sessions' outcomes.

Skills you will attain include:

• The ability to identify your strengths and weaknesses
• Knowledge of your personal and employability skills
• Preparation in entering a new working environment
• Understanding the importance of cultural diversity
• Generating and applying ideas in a practical manner
• Enterprise skills and commercial awareness
• Time-management in organisations
• Leading, persuading and influencing
• Understanding personal influences and motivations upon career-planning decisions

For specific instruction on Career Management skills such as CV writing and completing applications forms, please see The Exeter Award Skills Sessions available to book via My Career Zone.

Lunch is provided on both campuses via the use of eXfactor vouchers: the Students' Guild's Kitchen Deli and Kitchen Cafe in Devonshire House, Streatham, provide a varied menu to meet the needs of all students, while in Tremough, the Stannary provides the same for participants.