SECOND CLASS LOWER IN FIRST DEGREE, DISTINCTION IN MASTERS – HOW TO BEAT THE 2.1 RULE

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Dear  Jarus,

 

I am an avid follower of your blog and earlier sent you an email this year  stating my fears regarding getting a job with a 2.2 degree (Information Technology). I also mentioned that I was on a masters course (International Business Management) and was hoping to achieve a better grade. I am happy to let you know that I finished with a distinction. However since most jobs mostly focus on first degrees, I am at a loss on how I can get considered for jobs that require a 2.1. Please could you advice me on how I can go about this? I got both degrees in the UK.

Suleimon

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Dear Suleiman,

Congrats. I’m so happy for you.

Yes, most jobs focus on first degree, but many companies, especially those that don’t have rigid recruitment standard, are usually willing to accept a good second degree as good enough to cover the deficit in first degree. Your having Distinction in your Master’s will no doubt boost your chance. Maybe a Shell or Chevron  or PwC may not bend their 2.1 rule, but a good number of companies will do.

Star circulating your CV around, and apply for vacancies (even where 2.1 is asked for). You may draw up a powerful cover letter to explain yourself and convince the reader (Hiring Managers) that your first degree was only due to some short term issues, and does not necessarily reflect your ability, as they can see that you turned it around in your second degree. I’m sure some companies will be willing to listen to you.

 

I wish you the best.

Jarus

 

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3 comments

  1. joseph john 30 November, 2014 at 07:13 Reply

    Hi jaru,am a aspirant of fuamakurdi 100l,i had an ND in electrical electronic but this year 2014 i decide to apply for both DE JAMB & JAMB(INDUSTRIAL PHYSICS) my quest was that where will seek for my SIWSES SKILL (A BIG FIRM) close to my environment benue

  2. Jarus 30 November, 2014 at 07:25 Reply

    Unfortunately, I don’t know the environment in Benue to advise you of where to seek your SIWES. That said, you can contact you seniors who had done SIWES recently for help on where to apply to.

  3. Concerned fellow. 15 January, 2015 at 12:49 Reply

    Good day Jarus,
    Am a 22years old final year student in one of the universities in nigeria, I had always wanted a good result when I got admitted into the university, but due to issues, that made me lose interest in education in my first year, i found myself on a CGPA of 1.84. Presently am on a CGPA of 2.84 after 300l exams.
    As it is, am worried on how to complement my result as to make it presentable, at least with a strong 2.1 at the end of my program.
    Please are there ways i can boost my CPGA im my final year to that tune of 2.1. Your quick reply will be greatly welcomed.

    worried fellow.

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