So, ask yourself, what's next? If you're feeling a bit lost in the maze of career and study options, you're not alone. In this blog we are breaking down how to explore different pathways and understand how these might help you to make an informed decision.
1. Start with Self-Discovery:
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What are you passionate about? Think about the subjects you love, the hobbies you enjoy, or those activities that make you lose track of time. Your passions and interests can often point you in the right direction.
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What are your strengths? Are you a problem-solver? A creative thinker? A natural leader? Knowing what your strengths are can help you to identify possible careers in which you are likely to excel in.
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What are your values? Do you value helping others? Making a difference in the environment? Having a flexible work schedule? Understanding your values can help you to find a career that aligns with what's important to you.
For example: If you love building things and are good at maths and physics, a career in either construction, engineering or architecture could be a good fit. If you enjoy writing and debating, then perhaps law or journalism could be a good fit. Try linking careers and study fields to help you build a good foundation for your review.
2. Research, Research, Research!
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Explore different industries: Don't limit yourself to what you already know. Look into emerging fields like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, or biotechnology to name a few. The aim is to see what’s possible to help you make an informed decision.
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Use online resources: There are a range of online resources and reputable websites, which can provide you with detailed information about different career fields, including their job descriptions, possible salary expectations, and the required skills and qualifications needed for those fields. LinkedIn is also a great tool to explore different professional fields and see how different fields connect.
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Talk to professionals: Reach out to professionals already working in fields that interest you. Ask them about their experiences, challenges they face, and what they love about their career.
For example: If you're interested in healthcare, research different roles like nurses, doctors, physical therapists, and medical researchers. Look at their day-to-day responsibilities and the qualifications and training needed to specialise, as well as an additional training/certification whilst in industry.
3. Understanding Job Market Trends
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Look at growth industries: Focus on fields that are expected to grow in the coming years. This will increase your chances of finding a job after graduation.
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Consider technological advancements: Automation and artificial intelligence are changing the job market. Develop skills that will remain relevant, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
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Be adaptable: The job market is constantly evolving. Be prepared to learn new skills and adapt to changing circumstances.
For Example: Remote work and the gig economy are also changing the landscape. Consider how you feel about these types of work environments.
4. Gain Real-World Experience
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Internships and part-time jobs: Consider these while you are still a student so that you can obtain valuable hands-on experience and help you build your CV while learning valuable skills, whilst building your professional network.
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Volunteer work: Volunteering allows you to explore different fields and develop a range of soft skills essential in today’s fast paced world.
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Shadow professionals: Spend a day or two observing someone in a career you're interested in.
For Example: If you're interested in marketing or any other industry, try to see if you can intern or visit an ad agency or industry that interests you, so that you can gain insight into the who, what, where, when and why, of the business before committing yourself.
5. Don't Be Afraid to Change Your Mind:
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Your career path is not set in stone: It's okay to change your mind and explore different options, even if you are already halfway or near to completing your journey.
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Embrace lifelong learning: The world is constantly changing. Be prepared to continue learning and developing new skills throughout your career.
Remember, people can change their jobs a few times throughout their lives. It might be for growth, redundancies, or just for a change in scenery. Whatever the reason may be, you don’t have to stay in the same career or field for the rest of your life. Be flexible and open to new opportunities, even if you’re afraid to take the plunge. This is your journey, take your time, explore your options, and choose a pathway that excites you.
