AFRAID OF WHATS NEXT AFTER NYSC? - here is what to do.
AFRAID OF WHATS NEXT AFTER NYSC?
In the quiet of her room, Ada stared at the framed NYSC discharge certificate hanging on the wall. The memories flooded back—the early morning drills, the camaraderie with fellow corps members, and the sense of purpose. But now, as the days turned into weeks, reality set in.
Ada had heard the stories—the tales of corps members who struggled after their service year. Some were caught in the web of unemployment, while others grappled with uncertainty. She vowed not to be one of them but she was scared. she saved up 100,000 naira but still confused on what to do with it has she doesnt have a job yet.
As she sat there, she reflected on the lessons she had learned during NYSC, especially the SAED program she enjoyed but never got serious about it. 'Maybe, i will venture into makeup and gele tying since I have interest in that', She thought. The emotional farewell at her Place of Primary Assignment (PPA) had left a mark. She remembered the children she taught basic computer skills and the gifts the children bought for her, this brought a bright smile of fullfillment to her face. 'At least, I impacted lives', She thought.
Ada knew that life after NYSC was a blank canvas waiting for her brushstrokes. Then a thought came 'only if i had prepared and planned ahead, i wont be facing these problems' So what can i do? then she made up her mind to advice corpers on what to do during their service year so that they wont pass through the same thing she passed through.
What can I do during NYSC to avoid struggles after NYSC?
1. Find and Discover Purpose
- Take time to reflect on your passions, skills, and interests. What drives you? What impact do you want to create? Your purpose will guide your decisions.
- Seek mentors or career counselors who can help you explore different paths. Attend workshops and seminars to gain insights.
2. Labour in Learning
- Education doesn’t end with NYSC. Whether you pursue further studies or learn practical skills, keep growing.
- Consider certifications or online courses related to your field. Stay updated on industry trends.
3. Build Relationships
- Networking is your lifeline. Reach out to fellow corps members, professionals, and alumni.
- Attend conferences, join professional associations, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know which connection will open doors.
4. Be Futuristic
- Set clear goals for the next few years. Where do you see yourself? What steps will get you there?
- Start saving and investing early. Financial literacy matters.
- Explore entrepreneurship. Could that side hustle turn into something bigger?
Practical suggestions to help you navigate life after NYSC and avoid unnecessary challenges:
Learn Skills for Personal Development:
- Instead of remaining idle, invest your time in learning a valuable skill. Consider areas like digital marketing, coding, graphic design, or entrepreneurship. These skills can enhance your employability and open new opportunities.
- Take courses on coursera, linkedin, microsoft etc
Prepare Your CV and Cover Letter:
- While learning a skill, work on creating a well-structured CV and a compelling cover letter. These documents are essential when applying for jobs.
- Improve your cv, develop your skills
- Get a passport if you plan of travelling abroad. Faith works by action and not by wishes.
Network and Connect:
- Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars. Network with professionals in your field. Building relationships can lead to job referrals and mentorship.
- Networking is extremely important, don't joke with it at all.
Explore Freelancing or Side Hustles:
- Consider freelance work or part-time gigs. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal offer opportunities to earn income while gaining experience.
Stay Informed and Adapt:
- Keep up with industry trends and technological advancements. Be adaptable and willing to learn new things. The job market evolves rapidly, so staying informed is crucial.
Remember, life after NYSC is a transition, and proactive steps can make it smoother. You’ve got this!
Comments
Post a Comment