Graduating from university is such a huge achievement. Years of studying and working hard finally culminate in a degree in a subject you love and an emotional graduation ceremony.
Some graduates do find the aftermath of leaving university a bit challenging. Suddenly your life goes from being super busy and purpose-filled to having more downtime and less of a focus. Here are three things that every graduate should focus on once they have finished their degree.
Secure employment or further study
Once you have acquired all this new knowledge, you are probably raring to get to use it. Figuring out your next steps can be tricky, though. There are many different routes you can take including further study.
At the moment, the UK is facing a competitive job market meaning that there are more applicants than ever applying for each vacancy. If you have a specific path in mind, you could spend a couple of months bolstering your CV. This could include extra courses in your field, volunteering and networking.
Further study is also a valid option if you feel you aren’t quite ready to enter the workforce. Having a Masters degree or even a PhD can make you more attractive to employers and boost your chances of getting your dream job.
Manage finances wisely
Transitioning from managing a student loan to life after uni can be a bit of an adjustment financially. Unless you are lucky enough to land full-time employment, you may find money a bit of a struggle initially. Consider part-time work to keep you afloat whilst you job hunt.
If you do find full-time work, having a lot more money may feel a bit overwhelming – sometimes in a good way! Try to remain responsible and think about your budget. Prioritise payments such as rent, utilities and student loan repayments before you can enjoy your newfound freedom.
Consider transportation needs
As you start a new chapter as a working member of society, you will likely need to reassess your transportation needs. For socialising and commuting, taking public transport is usually reliable enough if you are in a big city. However, if you live somewhere a bit less connected, driving is often best.
Many people put off learning to drive as it can be quite expensive. But, with a new monthly salary, you may think it is worth the expense. Make sure you get all the legal bits in order first such as obtaining learning driver insurance, finding a reputable instructor and getting a reliable car to practice in.
Try to work out your typical weekly schedule so you can fit regular lessons in. This can be hard if you are doing shift work or working unsociable hours, so try to find a pattern that works for you. Once you have passed, the roads are your oyster and you can travel further, opening up more options for work and home life.
