Your career has already started
A lot of people think their career doesn’t really begin until after their studies. But the truth is, there’s a lot you can do to get started right now.
Studying is important when applying for jobs, and grades are one of several things employers look at. But future employers almost always consider more than just your academic performance when deciding who to hire. That means that as a new student, you now have three to five years to build valuable experience alongside your studies. That’s why it’s smart to start thinking about your career path already.
This episode of the podcast series “Karriereveiledning med Elaine” (Career Guidance with Elaine) is full of great tips for new students about what you can do now to boost your chances when the time comes to apply for a full-time job.
Remember the small steps
Doing something now is something everyone can manage. Start by joining a student association. Get involved in student politics. These are great ways to open new doors down the line. You could run in elections, create information materials, produce content for the association’s social media, or manage the budget – who knows what might appeal to you?
A part-time job can be more than just a way to cover living expenses. It gives you a new reference, a network, and firsthand insight into a workplace or industry. And even if the job isn’t directly related to your future career goals, it can still count as valuable experience – especially when applying for more relevant part-time jobs, summer jobs, or internships later on.
It’s up to you to take the initiative
The career teams at your university or college want to hear from you – and they promise to get back to you quickly. They’re here to support you and are more than happy to help you take the first steps toward planning your future. One easy first step could be listening tothis podcast and reaching out to your local career center.
Here’s a quick summary of the tips:
- Start thinking about your career now
- Get guidance from your local career center
- Gain experience through student associations
- A part-time job doesn’t have to relate to your dream job
- Take action today