Some of the toughest decisions you’ll make in high school and college is “what am I going to do after college?” “which field of study is best?” “is this field in demand?” “are my skills in demand?” and “will there be enough jobs when I graduate?” These are all important questions. Therefore, it’s crucial to research and know your career options before graduating.
Reaching High
Young adults are attending and graduating from higher education in record numbers. There were 19.9 million students who attended college and universities in fall 2019. Whether you’re pursuing an associate’s, bachelor’s or master’s degree, a postsecondary degree allows you to pursue higher-paying careers that require advanced skills. Studies have shown you have a greater potential to earn more money with a college degree than without one.
The need for a degree is what has driven students to enroll in higher education in such large numbers. Young people across the nation are jumping into the college life whole-heartedly, resulting in a better educated and better-prepared generation.
Prepare Earlier
While the increase in numbers is a promising marker for our society, the students themselves may face some adversity following their graduation. The increase in graduates means greater competition for jobs, a competition that is affecting all fields of employment.
Students should start preparing earlier for their entry into the market. Researching the job market early and often while still in college will help tremendously when trying to figure out which direction to go. Simply having a degree in hand and walking into an interview probably won’t work anymore. Many companies are placing increased emphasis on real-world experience. This could mean courses specific for the job, extra-curricular activities, or on-the-job experience. These types of activities are what makes a potential applicant valuable.
Seek Out Advice
Florida National University has invested interest in guaranteeing our graduates’ success by providing avenues for advancing our students. We offer a Job Placement Office where undergraduates can get information and assistance. This assistance ranges from proofreading resumes and internship databases to personality tests to help students find career options.
Career centers or job placement offices are not the only place on campus to find advice. Professors, deans, and alumni connections are all treasure troves of career-pertinent information. The teachers and administrators are more than happy to speak with our students about future career options, as well as provide directional advice that could drive a student onto bigger and better things. These resources can help you know your career options before you even graduate.
Start Networking
Professional networking sites like LinkedIn provide an opportunity for young talent to connect with hiring managers all over the world. Exploring career options through family, friends, and connections can provide opportunities to positions students may not have previously considered. Sometimes LinkedIn can be so frustrating and confusing, so Forbes recently released an article that provides insight on how to make LinkedIn less frustrating and more fruitful.
Proper Preparation
Whether it is a sports game, a long road trip, or a simple task like cleaning the house, it is always better to be overprepared than underprepared. Knowing your career choices before you walk across the stage will help prepare you for post-graduate life. College can be the best years of your life, but if you don’t have anything to show for it at the end, you will immediately regret your lack of effort.
Enjoy yourself while you are in school, but also make sure you look for something that will advance you and your interests. If you still haven’t decided your major by senior year, then maybe it’s time to take a step back and figure out what you want.
Start Your Future Today
Florida National University has a track record of seeing its students through undergraduate life and beyond. We care about our students, not just while they are enrolled, but in their future careers as well. Our professors, administrators, and staff are more than happy to help you prepare for your post-graduate career. Call us today at 305-821-3333 or contact us online and get started on your path to success today!
