Our current YGTs give some tips for your application!

Applying for more than one opportunity

Each year, our recruitment team receives over 6000 applications for YGT positions. Our key recommendation is to apply for the one opportunity which best matches your profile and interests. Our advice is to choose the opportunity where you have the most relevant knowledge, experience, and skills. Even if you are allowed a maximum of two applications, make sure you use this possibility only if you can’t make your choice between two opportunities.

Share your enthusiasm!

Your application (and what you write in it!) is the first point of contact between you and ESA. Share your enthusiasm, but avoid general statements like “I have always been fascinated by space” without explaining why. Always give the reasons behind the statement.

Describe how your interests and experiences are linked to the project you are applying for. This could include your hobbies and personal projects too (i.e. cooking, hiking, playing a musical instrument).

Length of your motivation letter

Keep your motivation letter concise but don’t be shy. Share your academic and personal achievements and describe an idea you would like to investigate if you were to get the position. You can also include a statement on your behavioural competencies - it is helpful to make it clear in your letter which of your skills fit which competency. This is your opportunity to engage with the recruiters and even your future mentor!

Prepare for your interview

Here are some of our suggestions:

• Be honest in your CV and motivation letter. This will be the basis of the questions you may be asked in your interview.
• Show motivation. Even if you don’t know the answer to a technical question, show your curiosity and that you are willing to learn.
• Know your projects. For example, if your CV mentions that you have worked on a student satellite project, be prepared for questions on the different aspects, such as engineering and project management.
• Prepare for questions about teamwork. As a YGT, you may be working as part of a team and it is important to know how to communicate with colleagues or to work under pressure.
• Take notes. For technical interviews, have a pen and paper for taking notes and making calculations. You may also want to prepare a list of scenarios for any questions you anticipate, especially related to behavioural competencies.
• Dress smartly. The interview might be virtual but smart dress is welcome and looks professional.
• Practice. Film yourself answering questions and watch the recordings, to prepare for the online format of the interviews.
• Make sure you have a stable internet connection. Ensure you have a good audio/video system and reliable WiFi connection.

Good to know

 Finally, before applying for a YGT or preparing for your interview, we suggest:

• Doing your research. What is ESA? Why is ESA special? Are you familiar with ESA-led projects in the area you are applying for?
• Ask all your questions about ESA! Your future supervisors or interviewers may have been once in your shoes and may have been YGTs themselves; have some questions prepared to ask them by email or during the interview.
• Be yourself!

And perhaps the most important tip - good luck and shoot for the stars!