As we edge towards the end of the academic year, it can be daunting thinking about life post-graduation. After spending the majority of your formative years in a rigid school system, the summer after graduating can feel liberating yet equally overwhelming when you haven’t got anything lined up. Life post-graduation looks different for every student and there isn’t a ‘right’ path to follow. If you’re part of the crowd with nothing secured yet, there is no need to fret. Below we have a few ideas and options you might like to consider for post-graduation:
1. Find a graduate job – graduate schemes are a traditional follow-on from getting your degree. These structured programmes often operate on a rotational basis to give you a taste of different positions and departments within the field. Though some of these schemes have a specific deadline which might’ve passed, others accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. Brush up and refine your CV using expert advice found on your Keats page to ensure success with your applications. If you feel unsure of where to even start, you may like to book a careers appointment with one of our specialist careers consultants on KCC to talk things through professionally.
2. Do a masters – post-graduate studies are a great option for those wanting a career in the academic field or don’t feel quite ready to give up their student status’ just yet. Here at King’s there are a number of bursaries and scholarships in place to help fund your post-graduate studies – so don’t let the costs to deter you from applying! Coupled with relevant experience in the field, master’s degrees can help boost your career prospects and employability in an ever-competitive job market. Master’s degrees are also a pre-requisite for progressing to higher-level qualifications such as PhD’s if you were thinking of pursuing your studies further. Have a look on our KEATS further study page for more information.
3. Take a gap year – After devoting years of your life to studying, you might consider taking a break before starting a full-time job. This gap year could be a time for some much needed self-discovery and give you a fresh insight on where your interests truly lie. Breathing-space is important so you don’t rush into something you won’t enjoy. Travelling is a great way to broaden your cultural horizons and build a global network of contacts. It also allows you to show future employers qualities such as initiative, independence and resilience as you plan and arrange your entire trip by yourself. Whilst abroad, you could learn a new craft or gain some work experience – the opportunities are endless and all involve the building of transferable skills.
Whatever you choose to do, be assured that everybody’s journey is unique and there isn’t a single definition of success post-graduation!
Written by our Communications and Engagement Assistant Fatima Malik.