My university course (Industrial Design, about 17 years ago) had an optional "placement year", a year between second and final year where you would take a paid

My university course (Industrial Design, about 17 years ago) had an optional "placement year", a year between second and final year where you would take a paid job in industry (about 65-70% of a grad sallary). It was your own responsibility to find and apply for one, but in the industry in the UK it's become quite a common system, so businesses seak out placements students. I learnt more in my year working than the all of my university course combined, significantly, it was incredible and one of the best experiences of my life. I was fortunate enough to be invited back permanently after the course, and many businesses see it as an extended "interview" taking on a large proportion of placements students after. So, my recommendation is if your course offers it take it up, it's invaluable. If they don't, look for opportunities to "intern" during the holidays. Real world experience is the most valuable thing you can build up, and the prospect of it tuning into a permanent position is very strong.