What Comes Next? Helping Graduates Figure It Out.
Final year exams are nearly over. There’s relief… but also uncertainty.
For students, it might feel like everyone else already has a plan.
For parents, the pressure to guide their child into “the right path” can be overwhelming.
Take a breath — both of you. It’s okay not to have it all figured out yet.
Hi, I’m Elizabeth, Career Consultant and creator of The MAPS Compass. With nearly 20 years of experience guiding people of all ages through career confusion, job transitions, and confidence crises, I know this: there’s no single path to success — but there are powerful ways to uncover the one that’s right for you.
If you are a recent graduate feeling uncertain about your next step, the months ahead offer a unique window of opportunity. Here's how to make the most of them.
Step 1: Don’t Panic — Get Curious
One of the worst things you can do is rush into the “next thing” simply to be doing something. A short pause to reflect can make all the difference.
The MAPS Compass — my framework for career clarity — encourages students to explore four key areas:
Motivators – What excites them? What do they enjoy learning or doing?
Areas for Improvement – What skills would they love to strengthen?
Potential for Growth – Where could their curiosity or talents lead them next?
Stressors – What drains them? What kind of environments should they avoid?
These questions help them understand not just what they can do — but what they should do to feel fulfilled and motivated in the long term.
TIP: Write a short reflection on a time you felt really energised by a project, task, or team. What was happening? Why did it feel so good?
Step 2: Get Real About Career Paths (Without Committing to One Just Yet)
After self-reflection comes exploration. Instead of choosing one job title and trying to make it fit, students can:
Research roles that match their strengths and motivations.
Read job descriptions for roles they’re curious about.
Connect with people in those fields for informational chats (LinkedIn is a great place to start — here’s how to do that).
This research often brings more clarity than any personality test or checklist ever could.
Step 3: Volunteer to Learn, Connect & Grow
Volunteering isn’t just “something to do” — it’s a strategic career move, especially for graduates still finding their footing.
Here’s why volunteering is so valuable:
It builds real experience (great for resumes and interviews).
It grows your network, especially when aligned with your interests.
It strengthens confidence, communication, and adaptability - essential skills.
It can expose you to careers or causes you hadn’t considered before.
Graduates who volunteer strategically are far more likely to uncover hidden opportunities — and they often enter interviews with richer stories, sharper insights, and stronger direction.
TIP: Volunteer in areas that align with your values &/or interests — education, sustainability, tech, community support, arts, or youth work.
Where to Find Volunteer Opportunities in Ireland
Here are some great places to start:
Boardmatch Ireland (for those interested in governance/leadership)
Want a Framework to Go Even Further?
If you want deeper guidance to turn reflection into a real plan, the MAPS Compass Career Guide is your next step. It’s a practical workbook that:
Helps you discover core motivations and strengths.
Walks you through building a career aligned with your values.
Guides you in choosing the right direction with clarity and confidence.
Set yourself or a graduate you know up for success — grab the guide now and start designing a future that fits.
👉 Buy the MAPS Compass here
Remember: feeling unsure is a sign of awareness, not failure. Use this summer wisely — to reflect, connect, explore, and grow. And if you need a guide along the way, I’m right here.
