As a student just entering my fourth and final year of studies, I am consistently asked the same questions: “Are you graduating?” “What are you doing after you graduate?” These questions don’t only come from my family, friends, and co-workers, but they are also ones I ask to myself. The truth is, I have no idea yet. However, I’ve learned that even though I may be unsure of what I want to do, I know for sure what I don’t want to do. And that’s a good starting point.
After graduation, you have several options: graduate school, the workforce, a college diploma. Recently, I’ve been thinking more about graduate school and with professors and departments expressing scholarship deadlines, I’ve been feeling more pressed to make a decision. I was advised to talk with other students and told that the best advice I could get would be from a student enrolled in a graduate program themselves. So, that’s exactly what I did.
The graduate student I met with talked about real-life experiences and had a lot of insight to offer. But the best advice he probably gave spoke about really considering all your options and having a clear idea of what you want in life. If your career goal only requires a post-graduate college diploma, then go to college. If your career goal requires a bit more than that, then apply for a masters. In some cases, it may even be worth it to dive right into the workforce and gain immediate and hands on experience in your field. Whatever it may be, keep your options open, but understand that it’s okay not to always know what your exact interests are. As you explore different paths and take on the opportunities placed in front of you, you will learn what your true passions are.
Which brings me to the upcoming Professional and Graduate School Expo taking place in the Athletics Centre at Trent on Wednesday, November 5. This event is being hosted by the Career Centre and will house a number of recruiters from a broad range of institutions. By attending the event, you can learn more about further educational opportunities upon graduation, meet school representatives, and educate yourself on the admission requirements for gaining entrance into post-grad programs. If you don’t know what you would like to do after graduation, this event could open your mind up to all of your options and possibilities. Hope to see you there!
In celebration of Canada Career Week (November 4-7) we are sharing a new story every day from our students, our alumni and our University’s leaders on how Trent best prepares our students and graduates for success in their chosen careers.
Posted on Monday, November 3, 2014.