Q&A with a Careers Adviser: Jo Allen
With a background in History from Warwick University, including a term in Venice, Jo Allen brings extensive experience in the Higher Education sector to her role as a careers adviser. Her previous roles at Oxford University and in consultancy involved supporting universities with strategy development. Now at the Oxford University Careers Service, Jo leads on careers support for international students and advises across a range of sectors, including business, finance, and education.
All our careers advisers are experts—but what about the people behind the advice? Let’s get to know Jo a little better...
Q&A with Jo Allen:
What's one piece of careers advice you wish you had followed sooner?
Try and avoid just following the crowd. As a history undergraduate I felt compelled to work in museums. Once working in one, I realised this was not the space for me. I wish I had been more curious as an undergraduate to explore other options that could’ve sparked my interest. That being said, I don’t regret my first job- it sparked a chain reaction and introduced me to so many brilliant people who I am still in touch with. I wouldn’t be where I am now without it!
If you could have any job in the world for a day, which one would it be?
This is a tough question and one I have never been able to answer. A police officer, an author, a vet, an astronaut?
Has anyone ever taken a career path which really surprised you?
My mother spent many years in retail and cleaning roles. By chance, she took a cleaning role at a university that specialises in crop and environment research. She found this fascinating. She undertook a part-time degree, and then a Master’s, secured some lab work and now, many years later, is Deputy Head of a department there. It’s a real message to show you that you can change career direction at any stage in life, and it is never ‘too late’ to follow your dreams.
One thing you wish more people knew about the Careers Service?
When I was at university, I felt quite intimidated about booking an appointment with a Careers Adviser. Now as a Careers Adviser, students share with me that they felt nervous booking. I wish more students knew that we are a friendly team who offer impartial guidance, and that we are not here to test you or catch you out.
How do you stay motivated and celebrate your job?
The best thing about my job is speaking to students. It’s a privilege to play a small part in their career thinking and sometimes I am lucky enough to receive thank you emails and updates. When I receive these, I cherish them and keep them in my ‘bouquet box’ to save for a rainy day.
What’s your favourite time of year to be working in Oxford/at the Careers Service?
Michaelmas term! I enjoy the ‘back to school’ feeling, going out to departments and colleges and meeting new students and spreading the word of all the brilliant work we do at careers.
Do you have any books or podcasts which have influenced your professional outlook?
I love the Squiggly Careers Podcast, where Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis share the message that ‘the best career path isn’t always a straight line’. Their podcast covers some great topics, such as recovering from rejection, top tips for interviews and staying confident during a job search.
Finally, give us one top tip for career planning
Talk to as many people as possible. Connect with people on LinkedIn, talk to your tutors, network, and be curious. Ask others about their career and you’ll learn that for so many people, their journey is full of twists, turns and surprises.
1:1 Advice Appointments
Our specialist careers advisers come from a variety of professional backgrounds, including teaching, banking, publishing, and law. All of them, including Jo Allen, are equipped to help you with any career-related issue you might have.
