You’ve finished studying, Now what

Have you graduated from secondary school or university and are wondering what to do next? You can start a business or find a full-time or part-time job. If you are unable to do so immediately after finishing your studies, then the most suitable alternative is to register with the employment office. But you also have the option of continuing your studies in this country or abroad.

Continuing to study is the most attractive alternative for many graduates. Applications to schools are usually submitted by the end of February and the entrance examinations themselves take place until June. However, technical faculties in particular announce additional deadlines later on. Potential applicants can opt for studying full-time, which requires their every-day attendance at school, or studying part-time, which they can do while working a job.

More and more students are also trying their luck by applying to universities abroad, where they can study in their chosen sector and also perfect their language skills. However, you can also obtain language certificates in this country, for instance by taking e-learning courses. Language certificates, as well as confirmation of completion of specialist courses, are an important element that you can use to your advantage when looking for a job.

Most graduates decide to work after completing their studies. Ideally you will start looking for a job while still studying. The best alternative is to be active in your field while studying by taking advantage of for example professional residencies.

If you are in the stage of making enquiries, it is important to show initiative from the start and devote all your time to finding a job. You should search job offers, monitor companies, contact them and distribute a well-executed curriculum vitae together with a motivational letter every day. Recruitment agencies will also help you find a suitable job and prepare for job interviews.