The stresses of leaving university ... what next?

Feeling lost? Nervous about leaving university? Unsure how to find the ‘right’ graduate job?

If you were like me, in high-school you worked towards successfully achieving your GCSEs and A-Levels with the aim to get accepted into university. Perhaps you were like me and picked your A-Level subjects based off what you enjoyed most because you didn’t know what you wanted to do as a career. Similarly, when choosing a degree to study at University, I applied to a wide range of courses as again I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. In the end, I chose to study English, simply because it was what I was best at and enjoyed the most. University was an amazing experience for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed studying my degree, however as graduation grew closer and closer, I was suddenly faced with the looming question – “what next?”

 

Or perhaps your current experience is slightly different, and you have had a plan for years as to what you want to do following university, but you have recently had a change of heart and are now feeling completely and utterly lost.

 

Graduating from university and entering the working world is a daunting experience for many young adults, so don’t worry, you’re not alone! In fact, many people leave university with a broad range of skills and new knowledge, but still have no clear idea of what they want to do with it! This can lead to feelings of confusion and anxiety. 

However, don’t worry! With the right approach, you can set yourself up for a smooth and successful transition into a working career. 

 

Networking is Key

Networking is an incredibly powerful tool for anyone looking to transition from education to employment. The more people you meet and connect with, the more opportunities you will have to learn about potential job openings and make valuable connections in your field. 

 

In fact, when I was trying to figure out what to do after university, I reached out to friends of friends and strangers on LinkedIn who were already working in the various jobs I was considering. I found this extremely useful as I was able to ask them what they love about their work, any challenges they face and gained a valuable understanding of the realities of their jobs on a day-to-day basis. So don’t be afraid to reach out and connect with people! 

 

Build your Skills

Many young graduates feel that they lack the necessary skills to enter their desired field. So, why not take part in online courses, do an internship or get a part-time job to build your skill set! Take advantage of all opportunities that will help develop your skills and build a strong CV. However, this leads me to my next point: be confident!

 

Be Confident! 

It is completely normal to experience self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy when exploring career paths or when starting a new job, regardless of all the skills and experiences you have acquired over the years. I’ve been through it, trust me! As the days approached to when I was starting my graduate position at Pinnacle Growth Group, I remember suddenly feeling uncertain about the new job and how well I would succeed, despite being previously excited. During such times, it is important that you focus on your strengths, experiences and achievements, and remind yourself of YOUR VALUE! 

 

Confidence is also about learning and growing, trust me! On the first day of my graduate job, I thought to myself ... I will never be as good as anyone else. However, you will soon grow in confidence and become more competent – just don’t be afraid to ask questions, take onboard feedback and accept new challenges! 

 

Tailor your CV and Cover Letter

Your CV and cover letter should showcase your skills and experience, as well as highlight how they relate to the position you are applying for. Be sure to highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or volunteer experiences, and use keywords related to the job you are seeking! 

 

Prepare for Interviews

Interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience, but they are often a critical part to finding a job. So, what are my tips for interviews you ask. My first tip is to research the company you are interviewing with. This will give you a better understanding to be able to answer or ask any questions. This leads me on to my second tip which is to search google for common interview questions and practice your answers. Finally, you should dress appropriately for the interview. You want to make a good first impression and show that you are serious about the job.

 

Stop Over-Thinking and Jump Right In

Personally, leaving university in 2021 and transitioning into professional work was a difficult phase as I had so many interests, which unsurprisingly, caused me to have some trouble when deciding what career path, I should pursue. Then, I realised, I could waste so much time worrying about what to do next and that there was no better way to learn about the world of work and where I ‘fit’ into it than by jumping right in! 

 

So, my advice is not to let uncertainty hold you back! Remember that it's okay to change your mind, and your career path may evolve over time. In fact, many people today expect to have multiple careers over the course of their working lives! You aren’t deciding what you’re going to do for the rest of your life, you’re just deciding what you’re going to do next. 

 

 

FINALLY, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, STAY POSITIVE AND OPEN-MINDED!

Entering the workforce can be challenging, but it's important to stay positive and open-minded. Be flexible and willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities, and don't be discouraged if your first job isn't exactly what you were hoping for. It's important to remember that it's okay to take some time to figure out what you want to do. You don't have to have everything figured out right away. In fact, many successful people have had a winding career path that took them in unexpected directions!

 

Best of luck! Look how happy Lauren (pictured left) is in our graduation photos because she followed my advice! ;)

Chat soon, 

                Katie x