would it be okay to get a reference from my uni job for my placement

I recently had an interview for a placement abroad and they want me to submit 2 references. it's a lab placement and I already know I can use my tutor as one but I'm stuck for the second one. I don't talk to any of my lecturers outside of class so I don't think they would agree to give me a reference since they don't know me.

I work for the club at my uni and I know I could probably get one off of them but would this be professional? I do work hard at that job so I know it would be good but I don't know if it would be the right type of reference for a lab placement. how do other people do it? are they just always in contact with their lecturers?

Reply 1

wanga_wanga

Original post by Spelunker

I recently had an interview for a placement abroad and they want me to submit 2 references. it's a lab placement and I already know I can use my tutor as one but I'm stuck for the second one. I don't talk to any of my lecturers outside of class so I don't think they would agree to give me a reference since they don't know me.
I work for the club at my uni and I know I could probably get one off of them but would this be professional? I do work hard at that job so I know it would be good but I don't know if it would be the right type of reference for a lab placement. how do other people do it? are they just always in contact with their lecturers?

yes, if you work for them and are required to turn up at designated times and days and not leave until said. This is work, paid or not and can be referred to about your character.

Reply 2

Spelunker

Original post by wanga_wanga

yes, if you work for them and are required to turn up at designated times and days and not leave until said. This is work, paid or not and can be referred to about your character.

thanks! it is paid work, the only thing I'm worried about is that it is a night club and I don't know if that would be an unprofessional reference for a lab?

Reply 3

wanga_wanga

Original post by Spelunker

thanks! it is paid work, the only thing I'm worried about is that it is a night club and I don't know if that would be an unprofessional reference for a lab?

You are a student, such jobs are done by students so incredibly frequently I would be surprised if this is taken as anything but employment.
You seem anxious that it doesn't "look right" forgive me if I'm assuming too much from what you've said. But a professional reference is generally more powerful (context dependent). Simply because you'd get sacked if you played silly buggers.

I've done all sorts of work over the years the references are always the closest to you at the time.

Reply 4

University of Strathclyde Student Ambassador

Official Rep

Original post by Spelunker

I recently had an interview for a placement abroad and they want me to submit 2 references. it's a lab placement and I already know I can use my tutor as one but I'm stuck for the second one. I don't talk to any of my lecturers outside of class so I don't think they would agree to give me a reference since they don't know me.
I work for the club at my uni and I know I could probably get one off of them but would this be professional? I do work hard at that job so I know it would be good but I don't know if it would be the right type of reference for a lab placement. how do other people do it? are they just always in contact with their lecturers?

Hey @Spelunker ,
Sometimes you can be asked for specific people they want as referees but if they haven't stipulated then there should be no problems using one from you uni club. References are a testament of your work ethic and character so it is always good to have people that know you and can give a more informed and stronger reference. Great that you have your tutor as one.
Hopefully your interview was successful and all the best to you! Catherine - University of Strathclyde Student Ambassador

Reply 5

Heriot-Watt Uni

Official Rep

Original post by Spelunker

I recently had an interview for a placement abroad and they want me to submit 2 references. it's a lab placement and I already know I can use my tutor as one but I'm stuck for the second one. I don't talk to any of my lecturers outside of class so I don't think they would agree to give me a reference since they don't know me.
I work for the club at my uni and I know I could probably get one off of them but would this be professional? I do work hard at that job so I know it would be good but I don't know if it would be the right type of reference for a lab placement. how do other people do it? are they just always in contact with their lecturers?

Hey there,

Firstly, congrats on landing the interview for the lab placement abroad! It's a big achievement. I understand the pressure of needing references, especially when unsure who to ask. It's a good idea to clarify with the company what type of reference they require. Different roles may have different expectations. Also, you might want to check with the uni club regarding the kind of reference they can provide. I also work in the uni student shop, and they told me that they are only allowed to give factual employment references with no subjective comments. It's best to contact your manager to see if their reference type suits the placement requirements.

Regarding your dilemma with the second reference, it's completely understandable that you might not have close relationships with your lecturers. Don't stress about that! Many students, including me, find themselves in the same boat.

Using a reference from your uni club could be professional, especially if you've demonstrated dedication and hard work there. Employers often value character references that showcase your work ethic and interpersonal skills. How others handle it varies. Some students have strong connections with their lecturers, while others rely on references from extracurricular activities or part-time jobs. It's all about highlighting your strengths and suitability for the role.

Feel free to reach out if you need further advice or assistance. Best of luck with your placement. You've got this.

Cheers,
Shri (MSc International Business Student).

Reply 6

University of Huddersfield

Official Rep

Original post by Spelunker

I recently had an interview for a placement abroad and they want me to submit 2 references. it's a lab placement and I already know I can use my tutor as one but I'm stuck for the second one. I don't talk to any of my lecturers outside of class so I don't think they would agree to give me a reference since they don't know me.
I work for the club at my uni and I know I could probably get one off of them but would this be professional? I do work hard at that job so I know it would be good but I don't know if it would be the right type of reference for a lab placement. how do other people do it? are they just always in contact with their lecturers?

Hi! There shouldn’t be an issue with using a reference from a nightclub! Obviously, the more professional the better, but you’re a student and they’re aware that there are limited jobs young, unqualified students can get. Best of luck with your lab placement, I’m sure you’ll do great!

Hope this helps!

Estelle
Third Year Psychology
University of Huddersfield

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