As a member of the Class of 2020, you’ve had a HSC year you’re unlikely to forget! Now it’s all over, it can be a little scary to think about what’s next, particularly when our news feeds are full of stories about job losses, businesses closing, and rising unemployment. And, if you were planning to take a gap year abroad, you’ve been thrown yet another curve ball.
The good news is that there are options out there that can help you make your next move, whether that’s about a local gap year adventure, a part-time gig to pay the bills today or a career with good job prospects that lets you earn while you learn.
Find a gig to keep cash coming in…
It’s been a challenging year to say the least, so if you’re not ready to dive head-first into a career, you’ll likely need a part-time or casual gig to keep money coming in while you decide what’s next. This can be difficult today, with a competitive job market, so you need to put your best foot forward.
A skill-based short course, like a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA), barista skills or even first aid can help you to stand out. These skills will also put you in a good position to find work abroad if you decide to take a delayed gap year when the world reopens.
…follow the local trail…
While many local regions are hurting from a lack of tourists, there are also job opportunities in fields previously filled by international backpackers, such as fruit picking or even hospitality roles, like bar work. So, grab your backpack (and your RSA!) and take a local gap year.
Or make a career move that puts you ahead of the pack
Often, when we think of apprenticeships, we think of plumbers, electricians, carpenters and hairdressers, but did you know there are more than 500 apprenticeship careers? An apprenticeship can get you started in everything from trades to creative industries, health and beauty to professional fields, like business, finance or administration.
And the best bit? With an apprenticeship you earn while you learn, so you’ll be out there working in your chosen field and earning money, well before your uni mates. You’ll also be working towards a nationally recognised qualification, one that can even set you on a pathway to owning your own business.
Do what you love
Whatever your passion, there’s a good chance that there is an apprenticeship or traineeship that can help you turn it into a career. Find out more and start exploring your options at https://www.verto.org.au/consider-an-apprenticeship.
