Plotting Your Post-Graduation Path

If you’ve just begun your search for a Masters, graduation might seem like a long way off, but it makes a lot of sense to begin planning for this as early as possible. Of course, at the moment much about the future seems less than certain, but there are plenty of things you can do to get ready for life after your studies.

In my own experience as an MA Creative Writing student, I was often left feeling unsure of what the future might hold as my course reached its end, after being committed to my studies for so long. I was fully equipped with the tools I needed to produce great writing; however, I wasn’t sure what to do next. After completing a Masters course – or any extended period of education – it’s perfectly normal to take a step back and ask – what now?

There are many paths which you can take as you look to the next stages of your career and it’s important that you choose the right one for your development. This blog explores just some of the options available to you when you’re thinking about which route to take after finishing your Masters degree.

The first step in building your career after completing your course should be to identify a suitable career path. Consider your strengths and the areas of your course that you identified with the most, before conducting thorough research into the jobs available and the associated requirements.

You may find that you first need to apply for entry level positions within your industry, such an internship or voluntary role. Internships are a great way to get your foot in the door, with the potential to land a full-time position upon their successful completion. At the very least they provide hands-on industry experience that will look great on your CV. You should, however, consider the cost of living when taking on such positions, as most internships are not well paid, and many are voluntary.

When you’re ready to apply for full-time positions, be sure to market yourself effectively using your CV, job site profiles and social media accounts. Consider using a professional CV builder to help highlight your key skills and experience to potential employers for your social profiles such as LinkedIn, as well as individual applications and covering letters.

As you prepare for the start of your career, it is important to consider your current financial situation and ensure you have enough of an income to be able to live comfortably. Working as a freelancer is a great way to earn money whilst gaining experience in your field at the same time. Some freelance roles can be completed alongside a full or part-time job, while more in-depth projects may even form a basis for an extended career as a freelancer. With benefits such as being your own boss, working flexible hours and choosing which projects you take on, you may find that a career as a freelancer is right for you.

As a way of making money alongside freelance work, an internship or apprenticeship, consider getting a part-time job . Sourcing part-time employment can be a great way to keep you afloat financially in the short term while you gain the hands-on experience in your own industry.

It is important, however, not to let part-time work become a distraction or get in the way of achieving your goals, so make sure you’re clear with employers about your intentions and career ambitions. Also try not to take on too many shifts – it’s imperative that you’re able to set aside time to work on your portfolio and build career experience.

While you’re still trying to get your career off the ground, it's understandable that money can be tight. After being a student, it’s likely that you’re no stranger to living on a budget and keeping a close eye on your personal finances. Consider your cost of living and whether it matches your expected income in the early stages of your career.

There are many cost-cutting measures you can take to make sure you survive until your next payday, such as shopping for value groceries, cutting back on luxuries, cancelling non-essential subscriptions and scaling down your living arrangements.

House or flat sharing is a great way to save money on rent and bills, with some energy providers offering utilities as one consolidated bill for the ease of splitting payments with others.

While getting your Masters degree is a great achievement in academic study, it may be that your dream job requires you to take your education even further. There may be skills, training and qualifications that weren’t covered during your course that you will need to be considered for certain roles.

Taking advantage of a host of distance learning courses and online resources will allow you to gain the knowledge and qualifications that you need whilst you work to earn money. Most distance learning courses can be completed remotely and within a flexible time frame, meaning you can fit your studies in around your working schedule with ease.

To go even further, it may be that your dream job requires you to have completed a PhD programme. PhDs involve a further three years of research training in your chosen field and pose an additional intellectual challenge to your Masters degree. Studying for a PhD is an opportunity to specialise in a certain area and form valuable professional relationships for the future. There are lots of ways to fund a PhD, including Research Council studentships and PhD loans from the UK Government.

All in all, there are a plethora of different paths you can take post-graduation. I was asked where I wanted to be in five years when I was hired as a Social Media Executive and I replied with “Social Media Manager”. Five years on I'm a freelance writer, because I’ve learned from experience that I thrive in my own environment. When taking on your next venture, just ensure that it is realistic, it plays to your strengths and above all, it makes you happy!

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