As the semester comes to a close, students in their final year are rushing to hand in the last of their assignments and prepare for the much-anticipated event – graduation.
As exciting as it may be, some students may find themselves a little stressed or lost as to what to do after graduation. Some are looking forward to a break, while others are prepping for internships or job placements.
Whatever category you find yourself in, have no fear. The Dialog is here to help with ten pieces of advice for life post-graduation.
- Take the opportunity to recover
It may be time to give yourself a much-needed rest. Sometimes our programs can take a lot out of us, and the stress can pile up as much as the work does. Having no school means you have the chance to give yourself a break to recharge your brain.
Have you been feeling less motivated as graduation approaches? In that case, your brain would especially benefit from some downtime, which will help re-ignite that appetite for ambition.
Even if internships or furthering your education isn’t an option, recuperation is.
2. Look for internships
The best way to enter the working world after post-secondary education is acquiring an internship.
“An internship is a really good opportunity to try things out you wouldn’t really necessarily do in your workplace, find one that speaks to you,” says Rhiema Shuster, Academic Support Program Coordinator for the SAGBC.
When looking for an internship, it’s best to seek help from your program’s placement co-ordinators. “Sometimes they will directly place you based off of your interests, skills, or strengths into an internship,” Shuster said. For those in programs where you will be seeking your own placements, try chatting with other students in your program about their plans and placements, reach out to professors/instructors, and network based on your interests and skills.
3. Networking
There’s no better way to start building your career than through networking.
Job networking isn’t as intimidating as it may seem. The key is knowing what to say, how to say it, and who to say it to. Reach out to your professors and instructors and be clear about your goals for the future, what you are looking for, and who they can put you in touch with to gain perspective.
The most important factor when it comes to networking is “selling” your qualifications and skills. Show others what you can offer in terms of solutions to the problems they need solved.
4. Be your own boss
If the possibility of working for someone else isn’t something that intrigues you, and you haven’t found the role of your dreams, become your own boss. If your education has provided you with the tools and learning you need to go in your own direction, do just that!
Freelancing can give you full control over what and who you work with. Being self-employed also allows you the opportunity and freedom to be flexible with your career. Having to be resourceful and putting your skills to the test could turn out to be the best decision you have ever made.
5. Stay organized
If you are on the hunt for a job or internship, keep yourself on track by setting aside time to do so. Treat your job/internship hunt as your current day job. You need to plan what exactly you’re looking for and apply accordingly.
6. Book an appointment with GBC Career Advising
George Brown has career advisors readily available to help students explore their career interests and decide on a path that’s right for them. This includes helping with establishing networks, job searching, and personal branding.
Visit the Career Advising Team page to book a career advising appointment.
7. Don’t compare yourself to others
If you find yourself out of luck finding a job or internship right after graduation, the last thing you want to do is compare yourself to those that have. Questioning your own skills and abilities can lead to self-doubt and damage your confidence. Stay positive, keep an eye out for opportunities and take the time to further develop your skills as you’re searching.
8. Go back to school
There is no shame in learning more.
Consider other programs that could help improve on your current abilities. Whether it’s a part time or full-time program, there is always room for improvement. There are many post-graduate programs available to help you get a start on your future career.
Check out George Brown’s Postgraduate Programs page to learn how you can bolster your competencies, get hands-on industry experience, and form a solid network.
9. Prep yourself for interviews
Prepare yourself as if it were an exam. “Spend some time reflecting on your strengths – within that you’ll be able to see the characteristics, skills, and strategies that made your (academic) successes possible,” said Shuster. “If going into a job interview, you know you had a really successful group project that would answer a question being asked but you hesitate because it is a classroom-based example, (focus on) what you did and how you did working with others, give confident examples that hone in on what it is about you and what you bring to the situation.”
10. Get excited
This is just the beginning of life. There are so many opportunities now that you have made it this far. Take your knowledge and diploma in-hand and walk across that stage knowing you are stepping into a future with a world of possibilities. Be open to change, and know that there is no perfect image of what life should be. There is something out there for everyone. Be resilient and positive, reach for your goals and work towards what you want.
This year’s June convocation ceremonies will be held in-person. RSVP for your ceremony and request tickets for your guests by May 30 through STU-VIEW under the Academic Records tab.
Congratulations Class of 2022!
