Three things I wish I knew after graduating

For those not yet decided on whether to go to university, I can honestly say there is nothing like finally getting your degree. It’s more than just the great feeling of achievement as you consider the doors it can now open for you. However, as incredible as getting your degree may feel, finishing university can be scary. For many graduates, this is the first time that they are facing life outside of structured education, and that can be quite daunting. 

I remember that the excitement of finally graduating was quickly overtaken by the fear of “what do I do?” and had I known what I know now, I would have been much more relaxed about the whole situation.  

Throughout this series, I’ve looked into what I wish I had known before and during my studies. Postgraduate life can be equally confusing though, so here are three things I wish I knew after graduating. 

1. It’s okay not to have a plan 

When you first start education at a young age, you sign up for years and years of structure. Suddenly, you go from always having a plan in your head to not having one at all.  

There is often nobody there to tell you that not having a plan is completely normal. Some students may want to go home, and others may want to stay in the city/country they studied in. Similarly, you may want to get a job in your field or might be deciding what career to look into depending on how broad your degree is. 

These are decisions that you will naturally make in time, and you shouldn’t put pressure on yourself to make a choice as soon as possible. 

Your university is also still there to help you. Just because you’ve graduated doesn’t mean the doors are closed. Many universities have services in place to help graduates find work or apply for certain work visas. You can also find help elsewhere, and there is so much information and dedicated places you can go to find the advice and guidance you’re looking for. 

2. Finding work in your field may take time 

Maybe you have a plan, and that plan involves finding a career in your field of study straight away. This is a great mindset to have and is certainly a possibility.  

This was the conclusion that I came to quickly after graduating and feeling that initial “no plan” panic. I decided to start looking for job roles that required my degree. However, I wish I had known that it wasn’t going to be that easy. 

Finding a job depends on so many circumstances, not just having the right degree for it. From experience to location, there is a lot for a potential employer to think about when choosing between applicants. This can range from whether you have undertaken an internship to whether you’ve had a  work placement.  

Eventually, you will fit the bill for what a business is looking for, but this may take time, and it’s important to be prepared for this.  Getting a temporary job to keep you going for now, or moving back home to save money while you find the right job are both options. Much depends on your situation. However, having a backup plan if you don’t find that dream role straight away can be a big relief. 

Find out more about the best master’s degrees for employment.  

3. Your education isn’t over 

This was certainly one of the biggest feelings I was going through when I first graduated. Like how a lot of students feel, I loved higher education and was sad to see it come to an end.  

I felt that getting my degree meant that I was done with education, and that part of my life was officially over. I wish I knew that this wasn’t necessarily the case sooner. Education can always be a part of your life. Whether that’s in a smaller way, like learning a new language or skill or eventually looking into a postgraduate degree, it will always be there to welcome you back. 

University is like an excitement sandwich. You feel that way at the start and feel that way at the end. After the joy of graduating has worn off a little, fear for what comes next can quickly take its place though.  

Know that it’s okay to not have a plan or to get a dream job right away. Graduating doesn't have to signal the end of your education. Knowing all of this would have put me in a much calmer place at the time. 

Haven’t decided what you’re going to do after university yet? There are so many pathways and options for you to choose from. Why not read our take on the top five graduate jobs to spark your imagination.