For some, the expectation or desire to study in a tertiary institution has become a reality and the pressures of ‘what-to-do-next’ are not a concern at this point, but, for so many others, the reality of not knowing what to do, where to go or how to proceed after matric is a source of extreme stress and anxiety.
It is natural to fear the unknown and even feel overwhelmed by it. Cindy Glass, from Step Up Education Centres said it is at this time that so many realise that the pressures of being at school fade into insignificance when having to make decisions which could significantly impact the direction of their lives.
The good news is that there are steps that you can take to help you achieve your personal goals and dreams, no matter what your school experiences have been like.
Cindy gives the following tips to consider:
- Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right. You must believe in the possibility of your dreams and think without limiting thoughts. You can and must find a way to move forward with your life.
- If you want to study and have not been accepted into a university or college, explore the possibilities that lie in studying through correspondence or online. If you choose this path, make sure that you study-your-passion. Look for courses that will enable you to follow the career path that you want to do.
- Look for a part-time job to work at while you are studying. This will give you the opportunity to gain some work experience as well as earn much needed income. There are many options for this including becoming a waitron, tutoring, working in a supermarket or at a pet parlour.
- Consider the possibility of getting yourself into an internship programme. Use the Internet to find companies who are offering internships and apply for the ones that interest you most.
- Consider the possibility of taking a gap year. Use your gap year to learn more about yourself and what it is that would make you happy-to-do every day in a career.
“Remember that you have to start somewhere and don’t allow thoughts of defeat or limitation to derail your dreams.”
