Blogs: Serena plans a spring clean

Post 3, April 2013

Serena Cooper graduated from Lancaster University with a degree in History and Politics. She's now trying to work out exactly what she wants to do as a career

Easter time and in the midst of family traditions and Easter celebrations I can't help but think back to a year ago. I have a habit of doing this at every major holiday, asking myself 'what was I doing this time last year?' and 'where do I want to be a year from now?'

To say I remember last Easter is an understatement. It feels like only yesterday I was snowed under (yes under, not in - last year it wasn't snowing in April) with essays, revision and countless deadlines. It has been one year since handing in my dissertation; you never forget that deadline date.

Oh such a memorable time, cocooned away from everyday life and surviving on miniature Lindt chocolate bunnies, walking around with a haze of words, theories and quotes in your head. And, worst of all, thinking you will never get through it.

Well, I'm assure you that you will, and what's more you may, like me, look back in a year's time and actually miss it. 'Seriously? Why?!,' I hear you ask. Well in the real world there's no dissertation tutor keeping your nose to the grindstone.

Back then I had a target, a goal and a deadline, now I have to make my own goals and deadlines.

One year on and one thing has remained the same: the need to stay motivated, just like when I was doing my dissertation. When you're job hunting, though, that can be difficult.

For instance, a couple of weeks ago I saw an apprenticeship vacancy for an MP's office, but when I enquired I was informed I couldn't apply because I have a degree… overeducated for some jobs, under experienced for others, there always seems to be something in the way.

Graduates often feel frustrated as employers don't like to see gaps in employment history. But that's a catch 22 situation - the difference between taking your time and being focused and taking too much time, appearing lazy and feeling like you have to justify yourself all the time. Doesn't everyone realise it is a full-time job just looking for a job?

Luckily I have very patient and understanding parents, but some people don't and trying to show you're doing your best to get a job and move out can be exhausting. And that's before the demoralising rejection letters.

Make a conscious decision to stay positive and don't doubt yourself - if you do it will start to show in the applications you make. If you think you're not good enough then it will give potential employers the same impression. Stay hopeful and find things that will keep you motivated and prevent you from slipping into the job hunting blues.

I am taking this Easter as a chance to spring clean my mind and re-energise myself. Soon-to-be graduates should treasure their last few weeks of university and enjoy where they are now. As for job-hunting graduates, don't lose motivation, we will get there. Perhaps next year when we look back we will find we are exactly where we want to be.