The document outlines the thoughts and feelings of a university student struggling to find work experience. The student feels employers expect too much experience that is difficult to obtain without existing opportunities. They would accept unpaid internships for experience but these are often disorganized. The student thinks further education may be needed but their degree has not helped. They want to prove their abilities given a chance but lack connections to get opportunities.

1. Empathy map
• Say:
– I just keep hearing that I don’t have the experience.
– I’ve been to all the careers shows at my university but most of the companies are from banking and
consulting industries…..there’s nothing in other areas.
– Its almost like I supposed to have had a job to be even qualified to get a job.
– There’s a lot of websites out there for people already working but nothing for people like me.
– Some employers pretty much expect you to work for free if they know their industry is popular.
– Only industries with links to universities have well developed internship programs…..others you need to
arrange yourself.
– I previously did some work with a during my summer holidays and although it was good experience the work
I was doing was pretty basic.
– Most employees think of an internship as similar to high school work experience….if they don’t have a
formal program then its too much hassle.
• DO;
– …no observations.
• THINK & FEEL:
– If I don’t have enough experience then I need to get more education.
– This degree has been a waste of time….I would have been better to go and get a job straight after school.
– Why isn’t there internship programs for other industries.
– How do I get the contacts to get me in the door and get me some experience.
– I’d be ok working for free if I knew I could lead to some good experience or even a job.
– I know I don’t have the work experience but I know if given the chance I’d be able to prove myself.

2. Problem statement
• STAKEHOLDER needs a way to
________(PROBLEM/NEED)____ Because
____(INSIGHT)_____
• An educated, creative, hard working and
worldly student needs a way to prove his
capabilities to potential employees because
traditional resume techniques only show
academic abilities not his potential.