In your final year of university, you get advice coming from all directions regarding what steps to take following your graduation – some of it useful, and some of it you’ll probably want to ignore. But what about things you can do while you’re still at university?
While you’re studying, it really does feel like you have time for nothing else, as working toward your degree is, of course, your number one priority. However, throughout your time at university, you should be thinking about things you can be doing to ensure a higher chance of being employed following your graduation.
Make a LinkedIn account
And use it! Although you might not think you have much use of it now, LinkedIn could be hugely beneficial to your search in the future. Plus, you’ll feel more comfortable connecting with your classmates and lecturers now, rather than months after you leave university (and worry about whether they remember who you are or not!).
Get some experience
If you already have a part-time job on the side of your studies, this will seem virtually impossible – after all, who has the time?! But, if you do have some spare time on your hands, consider looking into volunteering, interning, or even a part-time job if you can find one, in the industry you’ll be targeting once you graduate. A little bit of experience will go a long way on your graduate CV, and could significantly improve your chances of securing a grad job.
Join a society or club
So, if these types of things don’t appeal to you straight away you might wonder how this could possibly benefit your chances for a grad job. But, hear us out. The attributes needed to do well in societies and clubs are transferable and will be crucial to your working life. For example, sports club demonstrate great teamwork abilities, while debating proves you’re an excellent public speaker.
Research the career path you want to follow
If you’re not dead set on what you want to do once you graduate, do some research before the big day. Even if you have a vague idea of what kind of roles you’ll want to apply for, it gives you a good starting point. It’ll help with the post-uni blues of what you’re going to do with your life, which a lot more people get than they like to admit!
Enjoy the experience
Although it might not seem like it when you’re in the midst of your final year, with exams looming and deadlines closing in, your university days really are some of the best of your life. Make the most of the experience, work hard, and enjoy it! Your degree will undoubtedly be one of your biggest achievements, so don’t take it for granted (even if it takes a lot longer than you expected to secure a grad job).
If you’re at university and looking for work, Stafffinders have a range of part-time, full-time, temporary or permanent positions available, some of which could be relevant to your degree. Temporary roles could be perfect if you don’t want to commit to a permanent job but need some quick income.