We can barely believe it, but it’s already November! That means there are just two short months until the end of the year, and if you’re in year 12 or your final semester at university, you’re almost due for graduation!
While the period before graduation can feel a little destabilising (after all, it is a huge life change), there are a tonne of exciting things to look forward to. Now is the time to plan what you want your life after school to look like; will it involve travel, further studies, a job hunt, or something else entirely? The only person who can decide that is you!
Introducing Findex
To help you plan for the future, we’ve enlisted the help of our friends at Findex (after all, they’re the experts at responsible planning and making money, which are both important parts of the post-grad journey). With their guidance, we’ll be sharing what you can expect, how to set yourself up for success, and a tonne of insider tips on how to have a super successful graduation!
To learn more about the ways Findex are helping young people get ahead, head to their employer profile today! Who knows, you might even find an exciting career pathway there too…
Managing Expectations
While we can guarantee that your life post-graduation will hold many exciting opportunities, we can’t say that it’s going to be easy all the time. With this new phase of life comes new and unique obstacles to overcome (but don’t worry too much, we know you’ve got what it takes).
To help you manage your expectations, we’ve put together a list of changes that might take a little getting used to. This way, you’ll know what you’re in for and can avoid any nasty surprises!
If You’re Starting Out on a Job Hunt:
Deciding to join the workforce is an incredibly exciting choice! Not only will you be earning some cash, but you’ll also be setting yourself up for an exciting career path in your chosen field!
While most of us assume that the path to our first job will be straight and clear, this is very rarely the case (but don’t get us wrong—this isn’t always a bad thing)! Plans can change, and so can your preferences once you figure out what roles you enjoy and don’t enjoy.
When dealing with changes to your career plan, our best advice is to stay flexible; sometimes, the job you enjoy most is one you never envisioned yourself in! Allow yourself the time to figure out what you like doing, and don’t be too harsh on yourself if you end up doing a 180.
If You’re Taking a Gap Year
If you’re not entirely sure of what you want your post-grad life to look like, taking a gap year could be a great option! Some people still frown upon those who don’t immediately dive into the workforce or further study, but we think that’s just plain silly. Rather than sinking a considerable amount of time and money into a degree you aren’t sure you’ll use, we consider it much more productive to save some cash and take an extended holiday in Thailand (or wherever else is plastered on your Pinterest boards)!
If you’re working during your gap year, just be sure to allow yourself the opportunity to explore different options that interest you. This is your time to figure out what kind of industries and roles appeal to you and which don’t. Who knows, you might even find your dream job by trying out a bunch – no degree necessary!
However, if you’re planning a Euro Summer gap year, there are many things to consider before getting on that plane. For instance, you’ll need to consider visas, flights, transport, accommodation, food, safety and a bunch of other important factors. It’s easy to forget the hidden costs associated with doing your OE, so don’t be caught out when you’re on the other side of the world!
If You’re Moving Out:
Post-graduation is the time that many of us decide to leave the nest. It’s a pretty big deal; you’ll be gaining independence, opening yourself up to the opportunity to meet new people, and emerging as a self-sufficient adult. In short, it’s exciting stuff!
However, when you’re planning on signing a lease, you also need to consider the hidden costs associated with this decision. While the weekly rent price might seem doable on its own, you’ll also need to pay a bond (which is usually four weeks’ rent), a week or two of rent up front, water bills, power bills, internet bills, and you’ll need to furnish the room, too.
This probably sounds like a lot, and it kind of is, but you’ll get there eventually, even if it means saving up for a few extra months. Remember, it’s better to take longer to get ready than to go in unprepared!
If Graduation Leaves You with a Funny Feeling
Regardless of what your post-grad plans are, it’s common to feel a little odd after graduating. After all, graduation marks the end of an era!
It’s an exciting time, but parts of it are a little sad, too. For instance, you won’t be seeing all of your besties every day (unless they’re heading to the same university or workplace as you). You’re also expected to enter the workforce, which can feel a little daunting, and you’ll have to manage yourself and your finances.
Our top tips for coping with any post-grad blues are as follows:
Keep In Touch with Your High School Besties
Having someone to talk to who actually knows what you’re going through is a massive comfort. Be honest about how you’re feeling and allow yourself to lean on your friends; it will likely give them confidence to do the same.
Look on the Bright Side
There are so many exciting things to look forward to after graduation, so if you’re feeling blue, try to focus on the good! Trust us, there’s a lot to be thankful for, and your new life will be just as incredible as you hope (we’re sure of it).
Get Started on the Right Foot (A.K.A. Get Organised)
The best way to start any new chapter is to plan, plan, plan! If you’re not sure where to start, worry not; head over to our organisation tips guide. By following our guide and becoming the most organised version of you, you’re bound to feel more confident.
Be Smart with Money
When you’re just starting out in a new role, it’s easy to blow your entire month’s paycheck within a week. After all, you’re not used to having that much money, so how are you supposed to know how to spend it?
Enter Findex Community Fund’s Young Money Podcast, a resource that helps young people just like you make money, spend it responsibly and plan for the future. If you want to know where to find it, and we know you do, follow this link to the Young Money podcast!
We Wish You Good Luck!
To all the future graduates, we wish you good luck (but we’re sure you won’t need it). However, before we go, we’d like to impart one more piece of advice; visit Findex’s employer profile.
If you haven’t decided on what you want to do post-grad, Findex is bound to have a perfect option for you, and you’ll be able to find it on our website!
