What to do after degree?

LegacyUser

Hi all,

I know this isn't an overly serious topic like a lot of the posts here, but it's been playing a lot on my mind the last while.
I'm coming close to finishing my qualification as a language teacher (should hopefully get a 2:1) and I'm just feeling a bit lost as to what my next plan should be?

I do enjoy teaching, but I am a very ambitious person and I want to push myself a bit further (not that teaching is a demanding profession, I know that already!) into a different role. While I'll hopefully get a good qualification, I personally don't feel like my level of languages are going to be high enough to teach and I'd like to continue keeping these up until I'm satisfied with my level (it's going to be another while before I'm satisfied, I can assure you).

I'm looking into other options such as postgrads and Masters programmes at the moment, but I'm just a bit lost as to which direction to go. I'm interested in a lot of things, such as business, international relations, the media, etc but I don't have a suitable base degree for many of these programmes.

On an extra-curricular level I'm actually quite good for taking part in sports and societes, and have achieved quite a bit.

I must also point out that like many college graduates, I have a debt to pay off before I can do anything academically when I graduate, but I think it's better to do the research now rather than later. I'd have no problem going abroad to work, as travelling is something I really enjoy, and the more time I spend outside Ireland, the better!

I apologise if this doesn't make any sense, I'm just wondering if any others would have any advice for a 23 (almost 24 year old) future graduate in structuring my future options?

LegacyUser

Have you thought about moving abroad to improve your languages? What is more important to you at the moment - getting your foreign language skills up or retraining/changing career?

It might be possible to do a course abroad in your target language, or in english, and improve your language skills. Or, you can move to that country and take ANY job (better if its in your target language such as waitress/bar tender where you have to practice a lot) just to have the experience of living abroad and improving your language. Having studied a language for years in school, and learned one whilst living abroad - I can tell you its much easier, more fun and quicker to immerse yourself.

If changing career perhaps try get into some sort of business area like publishing in the educational sector or as some sort of educational adviser - difficult though without any real experience. If you want to leave your sector totally, maybe just retrain/gain work experience first to see if you like the area.

Most ppl complain about the recession, but it's also a great excuse for people to spend some time investigating new careers/volunteering in areas they might like to work in later -try it out before embarking on a totally new course and investing all that money.

Many companies offer internships which are a good way to get work experience, training and try out that career - possibly leading to a job. so look around - check out jobs.ie and there's a section on it I think, or look up a few leading companies in different fields/apply directly. Not many companies will turn down free labour these days - tho competition will be tighter.