Your post-graduation journey:
The university experience can be likened to a plane flight with your destination locked in, your travel time set, and the excitement builds up as you prepare for take-off. Smooth and predictable, it’s a comfortable ride all the way. But unlike the straightforward plane trip, life after graduation is more like a car trip, where the route can change unexpectedly, and the duration is a bit of a mystery as it depends on the type of car you’re driving, how fast you’re cruising, and even the weather playing its part. Maybe you initially planned to head east, but suddenly you decide to explore a different region altogether.
I get it; stepping into the real world can be a bit overwhelming. The paths are endless, and you might not be sure where to start or what direction to take. But fear not for this ambiguous road can be navigated with a few helpful tips:
While still at the university, make the most of your summer holidays by training, working, and volunteering in different fields and places. Take the initiative to ask questions about work opportunities, entities, positions, skills, and certifications to people around you. Being proactive in exploring different options will give you a taste of what really piques your interest and aligns with your interests and skills.
Remember, it’s crucial to target entities that match your passions and interests when searching for a place to hone your skills as they will play a pivotal role in shaping your career trajectory. So, if marketing is your forte, set your sights on marketing companies, communities, and specialized associations where you can learn and find the answers you seek. Plus, early training gives you a head start in the race to secure opportunities for the following year. It also helps clarify your preferred field of work and the ideal workplaces that match your aspirations. With this newfound clarity, you can chart a learning plan and pursue professional certifications that complement the practical experience you gained during the summer. Build strong relationships with your summer or college club colleagues.
But what if you decide to drop summer training and opt for collaborative training?
Collaborative training might not provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the work or tasks you’ll be doing. The training period is short, limiting the number of experiences you can gain. You might end up with just one experience, leaving you uncertain about whether to continue on that path. This can lead to a long, confusing, and exhausting journey, much like the unpredictable car trip we talked about earlier. On the other hand, if you gather multiple experiences before taking up a job, your journey will be smoother and faster, akin to an airplane trip. Seizing opportunities may be challenging, but continuous research and seeking advice from specialists and experts on platforms like LinkedIn can help you make informed decisions about the available options. These experts have been through the same career confusion early on and their experiences have guided them towards the best paths. It’s never too late! Even if you think you’ve missed the boat after graduation, opportunities are still wide open. Misk Foundation provides continuous support and training in various fields at all times. Don’t miss this valuable chance to gain a clearer picture of your career path after university.
