Spotlight on... Raj Sidhu

What is your role and what does it involve?

I’m a Senior Careers Consultant and video-maker for UCL Careers, which means I have the privilege of helping students and staff find the right path for them. This includes 1-1 conversations, running workshops and making videos answering student-submitted careers questions and lots more.

How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role?

I first joined UCL in 2014 – before that I worked as a business manager on the trading floor of an investment bank, where I implemented financial regulation changes off the back of the 2008 crisis, as well as reducing its balance sheet and derivatives risk exposure.

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?

Launching, writing and designing CareersLab – a UCL Careers YouTube video series that now has over 2,000 subscribers and is growing fast! Check it out here.

Tell us about a project you are working on now which is top of your to-do list

I’ll soon be contacting recent UCL alumni and asking them to share their valuable careers insights and advice for upcoming CareersLab videos. It’s life affirming to hear – and share – so many inspirational stories.

What is your favourite album, film and novel?

OK Computer by Radiohead, Forest Gump and Hangover Square by Patrick Hamilton.

What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)?

How many tickles does it take to get an octopus to laugh?
Ten tickles...

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

• Akala
• Aisling Bea
• Arlo Parks
• Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez
• Grayson Perry
• Susie Dent

What advice would you give your younger self?

You needn’t worry quite so much… you’re going to be just fine.

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I have raced as a competitive cyclist, including an open stage race connected to the Tour de France.

What is your favourite place?

My uncle’s small farm – bordering the Masai Mara in Kenya’s west.