The Journey Just Begins: What To Do After Graduation
"The Journey Just Begins: What To Do After Graduation" took place on February 14, 2021. This informative webinar, organized by the Women's Section of the Scientific Research Committee, was designed to help BA students gear up for their impending entry into the professional world. The session benefited from the real-world insights and advice of four seasoned MA students: Alaa Salem, Fatimah Abdulla, Warda Saad, and Rana Almutared.
The key message relayed by the panel was that the job market is not easily conquered by academic grades and esteemed degrees alone. With countless graduates vying for similar roles, the competition can be fierce. The MA students recommended taking proactive steps to stand out in this competitive crowd. This could mean sitting for post-degree exams such as IELTS, STEP, PGAT, earning professional licenses, or enrolling in specialized online courses tailored to the students' desired career paths.
A pivotal piece of advice focused on the power of extracurricular activities. Volunteering or participating in university clubs, the panelists argued, not only adds weight to a CV but also helps students acquire coveted soft skills. These skills, often a topic of discussion in job interviews, are seen as valuable assets by potential employers.
The discussion also touched on the benefits of active engagement in conferences, forums, and training programs. The importance of social media as a platform for professional networking and personal brand promotion was also highlighted. The panel urged students to adopt an assertive approach to job hunting, suggesting direct outreach such as inquiry letters to potential employers, thereby expanding their chances of being noticed beyond traditional job advertisements or employment offices.
The session concluded on a realistic yet optimistic note. Although the road to successful job hunting is strewn with challenges, and requires effort, patience, and confidence, students were left with a sense of hope and inspiration. Equipped with practical strategies and advice, they were ready to take the first step on their journey to professional success.