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Many students start university with an idea of where their interests lie without a clear career path in mind. As you near graduation, what career you’ll pursue becomes ever more important. To arrive at the right choice, it’s crucial to consider the lifestyle a particular kind of job will provide you with. You’ll also need to think about your values, goals, and identity to ensure the work you do is meaningful to you. In particular, here are three things to consider during your career planning.
1. Who Do You Want to Spend Your Days With?
Think about who you want to be around every day — in terms of both your coworkers and your clients. Consider the kinds of people a certain industry attracts to decide if you’re likely to fit in. Great ways to figure this out include shadowing a professional at work or seeking a mentor. Since your career will shape your identity over time, seniors in the field could be a reflection of who you’re likely to become in the future.
2. What Kind of Work–Life Balance Are You Looking For?
Plenty of jobs are still 9 to 5 in an office — and that may be what works for you. Alternatively, though, you may be able to strike a better work–life balance if you work less standard hours. You may choose to do this because you want to have time to focus on a side project, gain additional qualifications, or train for a sport. If this is the case for you, think about whether you’d like to work part time or full time with a flexible schedule.
Remote work is often appealing for its flexibility and lack of commute, but you may know that you struggle with self-discipline and will be less productive if you’re at home all day. Other people enjoy working at home some of the time but feel it’s important to gain connections that are only possible by spending time with others in person. If this sounds like you, consider seeking hybrid work.
3. What Is Your Purpose in Life?
The purpose you had in mind for your life when you started university may have changed by the time you graduate. It’s common for students’ values and how they see their futures to evolve.
Consider what matters to you most, as well as your identity and the legacy you want to leave behind. Determine what kind of work matches these characteristics and would help you achieve your goals. Bear in mind, you may need to start small — gaining skills, connections, and experience — either to move up through the corporate world or to establish your own business.
Don’t spend all your remaining time at university thinking about the future — it’s important to also live in the present. Enjoy your last few semesters to the max by finding a better student apartment. For Waterloo off-campus housing, there’s no better option than 308 King. All our suites are fully furnished and the building itself is in a great location, near many local businesses and public transportation. Contact us for a lease.
