Graduation is a major milestone in any young person’s life. You’ve completed your coursework, you’re dressed in your cap and gown, and your diploma is just within reach. But what happens next? For many graduates, this can be a time of confusion and uncertainty, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ll explore some tips on how to make the most of your post-graduation life and set yourself up for success.
Don’t wait too long to start the job search
The job market is highly competitive, especially for young people and you don’t want to be left behind. So don’t wait too long to start looking for opportunities. It’s important to have a solid plan in place and to be informed about the current state of the job market. And if you’re an Anglophone living in Quebec, you may face some additional challenges as a language minority. But don’t let that hold you back! Instead, focus on what will make you stand out from the crowd.
Gain real-world experience while you are still a student
One way to gain an edge is to gain real-world experience while you’re still a student. Seek out internships, volunteer opportunities, and other chances to get hands-on experience in your intended field. Not only will this give you a better understanding of whether a career is right for you, but it will also help you develop a better sense of your strengths and weaknesses, build your confidence, and give you a better sense of what to expect in the workplace. It’s also an excellent opportunity to make important contacts and gain valuable references. You can also conduct informational interviews to get a better sense of what working in your intended field would be like or explore our day in the life video series to get an inside look into 10 different careers.
Take a minute to reflect and find out what’s best for you
Before you jump into any career path, take a moment to reflect on what’s best for you. Talk to your guidance counsellor, do some research online, and create a checklist of things you will need to find work (such as a CV, cover letter, and references). You don’t have to find the job of your dreams right away; you might be more interested in just working at a job that lets you save up money so that you can travel, start your own business, or consider going back to school in a year or two. No matter what, don’t wait until graduation to start thinking about your future. Whatever your goals may be, ask yourself the hard questions now so that life will be easier later.
Network and build relationships with people in your intended field
Another crucial aspect of setting yourself up for success is networking and building relationships with people in your intended field. This could be through social media, LinkedIn, attending events or job fairs, or connecting with alumni from your school. Building connections can give you valuable insights into the industry and provide you with potential job leads. It’s important to remember that networking isn’t just about asking for job opportunities, but also about building authentic relationships with people who share similar interests.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed or could use a little extra support, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. We’re a great resource for job seekers, offering free career coaching, workshops, and job search tools to help you navigate the job market.
Remember, graduation is just the beginning. By taking proactive steps to plan your future, you can set yourself up for a lifetime of success and fulfillment. The job market may be competitive, but with a solid plan, some real-world experience, and a little help from us, you’ll be ready to take on whatever comes your way. Congratulations and best of luck on your journey!