It’s important for students to enjoy what they’re studying. But after graduation, it will be time to start a career.
That’s why it’s important for students to do their research in advance and be realistic about their choices.
“Loving a subject matters, but pairing passion with realism allows students to pursue what they enjoy while also making it employable through minors, double majors, certifications or alternative career paths,” said Bonnie Exell, a spokeswoman from the Bermuda Foundation for Insurance Studies.
You need to fully understand career alignment or labour market demands when choosing university and college programmes of study.
“Being realistic about job prospects is important because it shapes life after graduation, not just what happens in class,” Ms Exell said.
“Time and money are big investments, and degrees in fields with limited opportunities can lead to extra costs, additional training or even a second degree.”
Indeed, post-secondary education can be expensive. From undergraduate and graduate classes to travelling abroad, lodging and food, the costs add up.
Studying for something that doesn’t lead to a clear career can mean years of time and tuition spent on a degree that isn’t useful in the real world.
Job prospects also affect long-term stability, including income, job security and career growth.
“Passion keeps students motivated but combining it with strategy ensures they choose courses and develop skills that lead to a career they both enjoy and can succeed in,” Ms Exell said.
A common mistake students make is choosing university programmes without researching job prospects first. They might end up in a field with few jobs, low demand or tough competition, making it harder to find work after graduation.
It could also lead to needing additional training or having to change careers entirely later. Closely related to this are feelings of anxiety about the future, an inability to find meaning or joy in the workplace or struggling to hold a stable career.
Think long-term
Students who plan ahead are best prepared for future career options.
Ms Exell said: “The key is combining research, expert advice and self-reflection. Don’t just pick a course because it sounds good — make sure it builds the career you want.”
She advised that students choose courses that match their future career. This means narrowing down your career options by researching the skills and qualifications required, and job market trends. Career counsellors, guidance counselors and university advisors are a great resource who can discuss each student’s interests, ideas and skills, and offer a career aptitude test to home in on their best options. Books, websites and private career counselling services also offer assessments to help guide students toward the kinds of careers that will help them thrive.
Networking
You also need to network. Why not sign up for networking events in a field of choice? Try cold calling industry professionals for advice. Reach out to alumni for advice and real-world insights. It might seem daunting at first, but it’s an essential and positive step toward learning more about what they do, how they got to where they are, and where the field is heading in the future. The more practice a student has in putting themselves out there, the easier it will become and the more confidence they will have.
Networking might even lead to hands-on opportunities like summer jobs, internships or even a chance to shadow a mentor. This can help you understand day-to-day operations and gain advice about the best programmes, practical experiences, internships and networking opportunities.
Once a student has a general plan mapped out, they should also prepare to be flexible. Rather than shutting the door on math, science or English, students should take courses that allow them to switch paths later. That way, if plans change or a student changes his or her mind, they will be better prepared with all the course credits they might need.
Ms Exell said: “Plan ahead by selecting courses that offer flexibility and mapping out the skills and experiences you’ll need to reach your career goals.”
Choosing courses and planning a career carefully can greatly improve a student’s scholarship applications.
“Committees look for students with clear goals, and when your course choice aligns with a defined career path, it shows focus, purpose, and ambition,” Ms Exell said.
Career-aligned programmes also allow students to gain relevant skills, experiences and projects that strengthen their application, making them a more compelling candidate by demonstrating both abilities and a genuine interest in the field.
“Additionally, careful planning helps you target scholarships specific to your chosen career, increasing your chances of success,” Ms Exell said.
“It also reduces the risk of missing opportunities and shows scholarship providers that you are committed, prepared, and serious about your future.”
Top tips
The key to choosing the right course is combining research, expert advice and self-reflection. Here are Bonnie Exell’s top tips for students :
- Start by exploring the skills, qualifications and job market for your chosen career, and talk to career counsellors, university advisors, industry professionals, or alumni for guidance.
- Compare programmes based on curriculum, practical experience internships, and networking opportunities, while considering your strengths and interests.
- Plan ahead by choosing courses that offer flexibility and mapping out the skills and experiences you’ll need to reach your career goals.
