You finally did it!
After years of pulling painful all-nighters and fueling yourself with endless cups of coffee, you can proudly hang your degree on the wall. Great job!
However, you may be wondering what you should do next, just like many other graduates. The truth is, there is a wide range of things you can do after graduation. The world is your oyster!
If you’re having trouble deciding what to do, here are some valuable options to consider during your thought process.
1. Buy a ticket and travel abroad!
Travelling abroad is not only fun, but it can also teach you vital, career-related skills. For example, taking the initiative and growing your independence and adaptability. Also, consider travelling locally. Meaningful travel doesn’t always have to be in a different country– you can learn a plethora of new skills the same way one would travel abroad.
Besides, you deserve a well-earned travel break after studying for all those years!
2. Consider grad school alternatives
Many graduates consider returning to school to earn their Master’s degrees or PhDs. Still, other programs can equally enhance your skills.
Continuing education programs, post-graduation certificates, and college diplomas are great for grads who aren’t interested in pursuing their graduate degrees but still want to continue their studies.
These programs are great because they’re:
- Flexible
- Typically short-term (ranging from 2 to 4 semesters)
- More affordable compared to Master or Ph.D. programs
Institutions like Ryerson University offer continuing education programs for professionals who work full-time. In contrast, companies like BrainStation, HackerYou, and the Academy of Learning Career College offer workshops to learn ‘hot’ and in-demand industry technical skills like coding and data analytics.
3. Or, take a gap year!
A gap year is when high school students take a year off before going back to college or university, often pursuing activities like travel or work. A gap year can apply to university and college grads, too!
Keep in mind that no rule says you should only take a year off. Remember, you can always return to school regardless of your age. It’s common to see professionals head back to the classroom after working for many years.
So take time off for career planning while pursuing other things like work, volunteer, travel, or passion projects.
4. Find a full-time job
Working full-time can open you up to new experiences and skills while earning a steady paycheck.
It’s not easy to land your first gig, so visit TalentEgg’s Incubator for tip-top advice for careers and job hunting. Other helpful things to also keep in mind is:
Job hunt burnout is a thing, so give yourself a break during your search.
5. Find volunteer work during your free time
There’s nothing better than developing professional skills while making a positive impact in your community! Volunteering part-time can allow you to work for a cause you’re passionate about while teaching you new skills, growing your network, and beefing up your resume.
Non-profit organizations like CharityVillage offer exciting career opportunities for graduates, whether it’s local or international initiatives. You can also visit our volunteer job board for opportunities near you!
6. Visit your school’s career centre to gain more career insight
Your university’s career centre can help you with your future career search and job hunt after graduating.
Take advantage of your university’s career centre by attending career workshops and job fairs. Mentors and career counsellors are also available to help you navigate your career aspirations.
Universities allow alumni access to their career services for a limited amount of time after they graduate. Therefore, check your school’s website or email your school’s career advisor to confirm the validity of your access.
Navigating Through Postgraduate Life
It’s okay not to know what to do after graduation, especially since many students are in the same boat. During this time, comfortably bask yourself in the uncertainty and try new things.
Our writers at the Incubator can give you valuable insight on your “next move.” Additionally, The Long View by Brian Fetherstonhaugh is also a great coaching tool to help you with career exploration.
Remember, as Dr. Seuss once said: “You have brains in your head, you have feet on your shoes– You can steer yourself in any direction you choose!” Best of luck!