The post-university transition can be extremely daunting and overwhelming, but please don’t worry you are not alone! Whilst it may not feel like this all the time with some friends starting swanky grad jobs in London, there really is a lifetime ahead of you and it shouldn’t be spent competing. It is incredibly important to take every step at your own pace, but this also doesn’t mean sitting on the sofa watching Netflix for the next year. Here are some of my top tips for adapting to life after graduation.
Enjoy the moment
- First of all, congratulations! You’ve proved that you have determination and ability and have got a degree, so be proud of yourself.
- Keep in touch with your friends and utilise all the free time you have making every moment count, because it wont last forever. It’s normal not to know what to do next, and it takes time and patience to find out. Enjoy yourself!
Pick the right option for you!
- There can be a lot of pressure from both family and friends to go straight into a graduate job, but you have to do what makes you happy. This might be going travelling, going back to university for postgraduate study or work experience, but you should never compare yourself with others.
- Rushing into the first job that comes along may work for those who know what they want to do, but not for others. It’s a big commitment and you have to decide what’s right for you.
Start saving
- Even if you are not going straight into a graduate scheme, its important to take every advantage of the free time you have. Whether you are looking for part time work, working at your local pub or in an internship, try and put a few quid away each week, you’d be surprised how much it can really add up!
- If you have to borrow money, make sure your both committed to and able, to pay it back. Most importantly, if you are starting to make some money pay your debtors back first.
Be proactive
- Put yourself out there as much as possible. Even if it’s using family members for business contacts try everything you can. I would also really recommend creating a LinkedIn profile, which is not only excellent for recruitment but also for networking. It’s also important to keep your CV up to date and relevant.
- Furthermore, be prepared for some disappointment down the line, its not always going to be smooth sailing so ride the wave.
Article by Lexi Kerr, Events Assistant
