As an MSc student in Climate Change Finance and Investment, I’m constantly wondering: How are interviews really structured in a market that I am unfamiliar with? What kind of career path will actually make me feel like I make a difference and drive positive impact?
Just as these questions started piling up, the Employability and Careers Expo in late January organised by the Student Development Team arrived right on cue, giving me a reality check and setting the tone for the ‘job‑hunt season’ that my cohort and I are about to step into.
The mock interview that made me think
One of the highlights was the opportunity to sign up for a mock interview. My main motivation? Curiosity. I wanted to see how well I could ‘sell’ myself as a candidate and understand how the professional market I’m stepping into actually operates, which may be different from my previous experience.
I was fortunate to be interviewed by someone from Instructure. The format felt exactly like a professional interview: CV‑based questions, probing conversations about my view of leadership, workplace challenges, my value add, strengths, and weaknesses. And, of course, the classic ice‑breaker that never goes away: ‘Tell me about yourself’.
I realised that no matter how hard I try to escape it, that question will always find me. The best way to feel comfortable with it is to practice early and often.
From the pointers I received, three golden rules stood out:
- Make the panel want to listen. Draw them in with energy, clarity, and a clear story.
- Show how your technical and interpersonal skills overlap, and why that mix makes you stand out.
- Always have a ‘why you?’ moment - what makes you the right fit for this role, not just any role.
One of the trickiest questions followed: ‘What are your strengths and weaknesses?’ from which I also got some very practical advice. No generic lines like ‘My weakness is that I work too hard.’ Instead, I was encouraged to:
- Be honest about a real weakness (this acts as a sign of self-awareness to the interview panel. Do select the right weakness but be honest).
- Show how you’re actively working on it, that you are open to receiving feedback and learning.
- Frame it in a way that highlights teamwork, learning mindset, and work ethic.
Leaving the mock interview, I felt more confident and more prepared. My strengths were reaffirmed, and I began to feel that I really was ready for the job‑hunting season ahead.
Consulting with Capco and the joy of constant learning
A second highlight was the consulting session with Capco. Consulting has always sat somewhere on the edge of my curiosity, but I wasn’t sure if it was a path I wanted to pursue. The panel discussion gave me a clearer picture of what consulting life actually looks like.
What stood out most was the constant learning. Consulting is less about knowing everything and more about asking the right questions, listening carefully, and adapting quickly.
The session reminded me of the Climate Change Consulting Project course which I am currently undertaking, where we’re constantly zooming in and out of different industries, sectors, and stakeholder perspectives.
Both experiences highlight how important curiosity and flexibility are in this field.
I also learned that while consulting exposes you to a wide range of industries and sectors, the real key is to enjoy the work itself. No one expects you to be an expert on day one. Learning happens every day, and expertise comes with time and practice.
What the Expo taught me
By the end of the Expo, I realised it wasn’t just about CVs, interviews, or job titles. It was about mindset. The mock interview grounded me in the practical side of securing opportunities, while the consulting session reminded me to stay curious, patient, and open‑minded about the paths I might follow.
The Expo has given me a clearer sense of direction and a renewed confidence in my skills, especially as they connect to climate change finance and investment. I’m starting to see that employability isn’t just about landing a job; it’s about choosing roles that align with my values, challenge me to grow, and let me contribute meaningfully to the climate agenda.
As I progress in my MSc with my cohort, I’m carrying with me the lesson that preparation, self‑awareness, and a bit of courage can go a long way and that it’s okay to still be figuring things out along the way.
