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Mentoring for our disabled or neurodivergent students
Applications are now open
Places are limited and this is a competitive process, completion of the application does not guarantee you a position.
Please note the closing date for applications is Sunday 8 November at midnight.
The scheme will run from December 2026 to May 2027.
Are you an undergraduate student who identifies as disabled or neurodivergent?
The IBM Career Coaching Scheme offers personalised career coaching from an IBM professional. Through one-to-one coaching sessions, you'll build confidence, develop your employability skills and gain insight into graduate careers, regardless of your degree subject.
Whether you're exploring career options, preparing for recruitment processes or thinking about your next steps after university, this scheme can help you make informed decisions about your future.
What is the IBM Coaching Scheme?
The IBM Coaching Scheme provides a minimum of 5x 1-to-1 sessions with a professional mentor from IBM. Sessions are held between December and May with the option of having in-person or virtual meetings.
By taking part, you'll receive:
- Your Personal IBM Coach: You'll be matched with an experienced IBM professional who gets it, and can offer invaluable insights and real, practical advice.
- Boost Your Skills: Through one-on-one coaching sessions and group workshops, you'll develop key skills to boost your employability.
- Build Your Network: Connect with IBM professionals and fellow students, building relationships that could shape your career.
- Tailored Support: Whether you need career advice, interview tips, or insights into the industry, your coach is there to help.
- Flexible Options: Choose in-person or virtual coaching sessions to fit your schedule and comfort level.
Who can apply?
To be eligible for the IBM Career Coaching Scheme, you must:
- Be a current undergraduate student
- identify as disabled and/or neurodivergent. A formal diagnosis is not required.
- Be interested in developing your career readiness and employability skills
We encourage all eligible students to apply.
What previous participants said
- "It gave me valuable insight and information about the industry”
- “There was an excellent understanding between us and we were able to develop an open and honest mentoring relationship. My mentor understood the pace that best suited me and I have found the scheme very beneficial in terms of the knowledge and growth I have acquired since then”
- “As we were well matched we could talk about a lot more than I had originally planned. I feel I have gotten much more out of the programme”
- “My mentor asked me what I wanted to learn and what experiences I was expecting to gain, I’m pleased to say all of my expectations were met”
- “They were very supportive and understanding”
Applications
Follow our guide to completing application forms and sending speculative applications in order to stand out to employers.
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