Dear fresher...advice from a graduate

So you made it to uni, finally away from the guidance of your parents - finally, an independent! But don't stop there.

University offers many ways for you to take a big deep breath before entering the so-called 'real world', but you'd be surprised how many students graduate without a path to take, or the relevant experience to take them where they want to go.

So, what can you do NOW to start preparing you for the rest of your life? (It's not as daunting as it sounds we promise)

• Think
  What path to do you want to take and what skills do you need to get there? Are there any companies that appeal to you - where are they based?
  
• Contact
  Whether you're passionate about a specific company or profession, research. Email employers about placement opportunities. Even if you don't enjoy it, it's saved you time later, and if you don't get a response at least it'll get you in the habit of professional emailing and CV prep.
  
• Experience
  Don't just stop at one placement, because every experience is relevant. If you want something a bit more fun or out of the ordinary, why not work for a kids camp, do a semester abroad and get cultured, or, spend a summer travelling? Independent? I think so.
  
• Get to know: networking
  Don't forget about the people around you. Family, family friends, friends, friends of friends, tutors. Everyone knows someone. You know the saying, sometimes it's not what you know, it's who you know.
  
• Careers Fairs
  It's far too easy to ignore these AND your employment office throughout university, but you'd be surprised how useful they are. Especially when you're a graduate, sat with a blank laptop screen and wondering which websites to job hunt on...So talk to people and get your foot in the door now.
  
  Flickr: Andrew Bowden

The little things you do now can help you massively later. Especially when you're in final year and struggling between finding a job and finishing your coursework...