While going to college might be the main goal for many, formal education is not the only thing that you get out of the experience. You spend these years specializing in a certain field and the probability of meeting people who share your interests is much higher. You also go through a more intensive phase of self-exploration and self-realization. Overall, college years make up the transitional phase between your teenage years and adulthood.
Throughout those (approximately) four years, you go through a lot on the academic side. There are, however, certain things that every student should explore before they reach the bittersweet graduation day. Who said that your career cannot start as a student? As a recent graduate with an entry level job at Bayt.com, here are five things that I learned after putting university behind me.
1. Collect experience outside of your curriculum
As the Bayt.com “Middle East Skills Gap” survey reveals, there is a gap in what the market needs and what skills students are graduating with. This gap is mostly a result of the difference in the environment. Universities, to a certain extent, are more theoretical. Whereas, workplaces require application of that knowledge in real-life. This is why collecting hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work is extremely important to your career. Not only does it bridge the skills gap, it also gives you an edge compared to your competition.
2. Make lasting “interest” friendships
The people you befriend at university might not always share the same career aspirations and interests as you do. So while they might be great friends, that doesn’t necessarily make them good future business partners. This is why it’s always a good idea to maintain friendships within and outside of your personal circles. Explore based on your career interests. Start networking and making professional connections that will help you when you are ready for employment.
3. Polish your skills
Competition is high, especially for fresh graduates looking for entry level jobs! 68% of respondents agree with that statement, as evident in the Bayt.com “Finding Your First Job in the Middle East and North Africa” poll. Graduates spend an average of four years at university, which gives them enough time to get a better sense of their strengths and weaknesses. As for university students who haven’t graduated yet, dedicate some time every week to improve the skills that you feel you lack, and take your strengths to the next level by mastering them.
4. Start your early job search
Finding a job might take some time. Only 48% of university students find a job within 3 months of their graduation date. So it’s a good idea to start your job search WHILE you’re still a student. You can approach employers as a student who is graduating in a couple of months. This way, you spend less time being jobless! Create a profile on Bayt.com and get ahead of your colleagues.
5. Have fun!
This should come as no surprise. Make the best out of your university experience! While the next step in your life will have its own advantages, university is a unique time. Don’t let it slip away from you.
