Graduating into… work?

Being based just around the corner from London School of Economics, my lunchtime stroll today took me straight to the familiar coffee-fuelled bustle that marks the intense activity, focus, and round-the-clock stress of students across the country sitting their final exams and contemplating life ahead. Having graduated three years ago now, I find it’s easy to forget the many emotions involved in those weeks – complete freedom, and yet complete uncertainty just around the corner.

Whilst some soon-to-be graduates really do know what they’re doing and where they’re planning to go, I really think it’s important to commend the uncertain faction as they step into a world with even less jobs and opportunity than when we graduated ‘at the height of the recession’ in 2008. It’s these uncertain ones who will be having to work harder – and with some creative flair – to find out what it is they want to do, and how exactly they are going to do it. It’s time now to score some points on their CVs and make contacts wherever they can, without getting exploited and hopefully making more than the minimum wage in their part-time jobs.

Now, arguments aside, Big Society seems like a pretty good solution to all of this. And though it may reek of unattractive volunteer roles promoted by local councils, I’m sure these young people would much rather ally themselves with the other arm of Big Society – social enterprise – and get their hands dirty doing something ethical, and low-risk with the last throes of youthful freedom.

The fact is that whilst there is confusion around what social enterprise entails, it is clear that this sector is going to be the new entry point for many young people entering the workplace this year. Think about it – the sector relies on people with an ethical standpoint, an innovative approach, an understanding of social media marketing, and little to risk and lose – the silhouette of the stereotypical graduate emerges…

So instead of skimming Gumtree for entry-level jobs in industries you haven’t even heard of, try out as a social entrepreneur by thinking of the social and environmental issues that concern you, and those you want to change. And if there isn’t a social enterprise out there doing something to tackle the issue and in need of young minds, then there is an opening for a young person to drive change and start a social enterprise of their own. It’s time to get involved.

To find out more, or to get support in starting your own social enterprise click through to Open Society, Unltd, or Striding Out.

Advertisement

Comments are closed.