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If you’re in your third or fourth year of university, you’ve probably been asked a million times: “So, what’s next for you after graduation?” The truth is most of us don’t have it all figured out and that’s completely normal. It can feel overwhelming, like you’re supposed to have it all figured out before you’ve even walked across the stage and had the celebratory drinks.
Honestly, every time I got asked this question I felt a mix of panic and embarrassment. Until this summer.
The good news is, right now is the perfect time to explore your options through internships, volunteering, or part-time work in your field. Think of it as a chance to try different career paths before committing to one after graduation.
Here’s why starting early can make all the difference to your development:
It’s a low-stakes way to explore your options
Your final years of uni should be treated like a play ground to make mistakes in. Internships and short-term opportunities give you the freedom to experiment, to see what kind of work excites you and what doesn’t quite fit you. The best part? You can change your mind without the pressure of being locked into a full-time job. Failing now and making mistakes is perfectly fine.
You’ll build skills that classrooms can’t teach
Lectures, presentations and books can only take you so far. Once you step into a professional environment, you’ll develop real-world skills such as:
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Professional communication with colleagues and clients
- Teamwork in dynamic, fast-paced environments
These skills are exactly what employers look for and will give you an edge when you graduate.
Networking is a game-changer
Industry experience isn’t just about the work you do - it’s also who you meet. By connecting with professionals in your field, you’re planting the seeds for mentorship, references, and even future job offers. The connections you build now can open doors long after graduation.
My experience: What I learned from LOOP Agencies
This past summer, I completed a creative production internship with LOOP Agencies and honestly, it was the most valuable experience I’ve had in my higher educational journey. Being able to deliver monthly reports to founders, go out on video shoots, try graphic design and go to launch events!
I discovered the aspects of marketing I genuinely enjoy, and just as importantly, I learned what doesn’t suit me as a person. That kind of clarity is hard to come by in a classroom, but experiencing it firsthand helped me refine my career path and feel more confident about the year ahead.
If you’re in your third or fourth year, this is your chance. Don’t wait until graduation to start thinking about your career. Use this time to experiment, make mistakes, fail, grow and make connections. Even if you feel unqualified or unsure, take the leap. Every opportunity is a step toward discovering what you truly want to do.
So go ahead: apply for that internship, sign up for volunteer work, or take that part-time role.
Trust me: Your future self will thank you.