While it’s probably hard to see beyond the end of your course right now, in the not-too-distant future, life at university will come to an end. When that happens, you need to have a plan in place. For lots of students, the priority is finding a job, but it isn’t your only option. You may also want to stay in the UK, perhaps go on to a post-grad course, or take an education break.
Here is a guide to help you figure out what comes next.
Deciding Your Next Steps After Uni
Take some time to reflect on your interests, skills, and career aspirations. Make lists of your motivations, strengths, and values to get clarity. Research different post grad careers and post grad jobs to find potential matches. Discuss options with mentors, professors and the university’s career centre. With self-reflection and exploration, you’ll gain direction on what you want to do after university.
Take a Gap Year
A gap year can provide a constructive break between university and your future career. It’s a chance to travel, volunteer, learn new skills via post grad internships, or work in a casual job before settling into a full-time job. A gap year abroad expands your worldview and looks great on your CV.
Check out your gap year volunteering options. Teaching English, conservation work and medical volunteering are popular gap year activities. Or explore new cultures and cities through backpacking, language courses and work exchanges. Lots of students follow the traditional route of flying to Southeast Asia or Australia, but the world is your oyster.
A gap year allows you to clarify your interests and gain real-world experience.
Choosing the Right Career Path for You
Choosing a career path after university is an important decision.
Assess your personal interests, skills and motivations to find fulfilling work. Research industries and specific job roles that align with these. Be open to exploring options you may not have considered before. Talk to professionals in fields that intrigue you to get insights.
Reflect on subjects and activities from university that energised you – they could indicate career paths worth exploring. Weigh up job attributes like salary, work-life balance, variety, and advancement opportunities. Choosing a career path and embarking on a graduate job hunt is highly personal, so listen to your gut about what feels right for you.
Getting more experience with internships
Gaining work experience in your field through internships is invaluable after university. Post graduate internships let you apply classroom learning in real-world settings. You’ll build hard skills, industry knowledge and professional contacts.
Entry-level and summer internships are great options for recent graduates. Look for structured programmes at reputable companies that provide meaningful projects.
Unpaid internships are controversial but can be done ethically. Ensure you’ll get proper training, mentoring and responsibilities – not just menial tasks.
Approach internships as extended interviews. Impress them with your attitude and abilities to stand out for future job openings.
