Danielle Celebrates 1 Year with Graduate Career Solutions
This month, we’re celebrating Danielle McKenzie as she marks her one-year anniversary with the team. Over the past 12 months, Danielle has been right at the heart of supporting graduates as they take their first steps into the world of work – offering advice, encouragement, and a friendly face throughout the recruitment journey. Her approachable style, genuine passion for helping people, and commitment to creating a positive experience have made her a real asset to both candidates and the wider team.
To celebrate her first year, we caught up with Danielle to chat about her journey so far, her favourite moments, and what she’s excited about as she looks ahead to the next chapter.
What has been the highlight of your first year with Graduate Career Solutions?
Honestly, the biggest highlight has been realising “oh… I can actually do this” 😅
Coming into recruitment with no prior experience was definitely daunting at first, but seeing graduates I’ve supported go from nervous first conversations to starting roles they’re genuinely excited about has been incredibly rewarding.
And more importantly… the team. It’s the best pivot move I’ve ever made!
What do you enjoy most about supporting graduates at the start of their careers?
Being someone they can be honest with.
Graduates don’t always feel comfortable asking “silly” questions, so I like being the person who reassures them that there really aren’t any. Helping them feel calmer, clearer and more confident about their next step is what I enjoy most.
What’s one thing you’ve learned about the graduate recruitment market this year?
Grades matter far less than people think.
Attitude, curiosity and willingness to learn often stand out more, and employers are definitely paying attention to that shift.
How do you help candidates feel confident and prepared throughout the recruitment process?
A lot of reassurance… and a lot of honest conversations. It’s vital to keep things human, too.
I break things down, explain what’s coming next, and make sure candidates feel supported rather than pressured. Sometimes confidence just comes from knowing someone’s in your corner.
What are you most excited to focus on in your second year?
Becoming more proactive and visible is my focus for 2026.
Building stronger relationships, backing my instincts more, and continuing to grow into my own style as a recruiter.
A huge congratulations to Danielle on reaching her one-year milestone with us. Her energy, positivity, and dedication to helping graduates find roles they can truly grow in have made a big impact in her first year. We’re so proud of everything she’s achieved so far and can’t wait to see her continue to support and inspire future graduate talent in the years to come.
