Q&A with a Careers Adviser: Julia Sadler
Julia Sadler, one of our specialist careers advisers, studied Law at the University of Reading and worked in publishing for 20 years before joining the Oxford University Careers Service. She now leads our Insight into Publishing Programme and advises on a range of sectors, including legal and creative careers.
All our advisers are experts, but what about the people behind the advice? Let’s get to know Julia a little better...
Q&A with Julia Sadler:
What's one piece of careers advice you wish you had followed sooner?
Sharing your ideas and work with others really helps – whether that’s your CV, your writing, your plans. The best job moves I have made have come after seeking others' feedback and networking. I’m naturally shy so it doesn’t come easy but once I make myself do it, good things happen.
Has anyone ever taken a career path which really surprised you?
My sister in law went from a finance director/accountant in a law firm to qualifying as an osteopath. Quite a leap. Most people now have 2 or 3 jobs in a lifetime – don’t worry about having it all mapped out at Oxford. Just focus on the next thing.
How do you stay motivated and celebrate your job?
I keep an email folder named ‘Smile File’ where I save lovely emails from students I have advised. And I always keep a stash of Green & Black’s 85% dark chocolate nearby. All that said, it’s easy to stay motivated when we get to meet so many inspiring students here. I love this job.
What is one thing you wish more people knew about the Careers Service?
That if you engage with us in your first year (or term if you're a masters student), the journey from Oxford to life-after-Oxford will probably feel less stressful.
If you could have any job in the world for a day, which one would it be?
I always wanted to be a vet as a child (but found the physics and chemistry too baffling at school) so it would have to be that. I’m still mad about animals though.
What’s your favourite time of year to be working in Oxford/at the Careers Service?
Hilary term: I love delivering Creative Careers Festival and Insight into Publishing.
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 Julia Sadler, are equipped to help you with any career-related issue you might have.
