Results day can be a stressful time. For many students, it’s a day of celebration as their hard work pays off, and they can begin to put their career plans and ideas into action.
However, some students may not have done as well as they expected, or may not have decided what they want to do next.
With intense pressure on clearing places in Welsh universities, many young people will be worried about their future if their results aren’t what they had hoped for.
Careers Wales Mid Glamorgan and Powys provides specialist free of charge advice and guidance, and is encouraging anyone who is disappointed with their exam results today to seek help and advice.
Richard Jones, of Caerphilly Careers Centre, has some top tips for young people receiving their results today.
Don’t panic
Hasty decisions can often be recipe for disaster in these pressured situations – talk to your teachers, parents and careers adviser.
Do your research
If you are offered a place through clearing, don’t accept it without doing your research. Despite the pressure on university places, it still isn’t worth jumping into a course or university that doesn’t suit you. You should have time to visit the university and speak to the course tutors first.
Don’t dismiss the vocational route.
If you haven’t got the grades you needed to go to your chosen universities, there are other routes to a great career. Apprenticeships are available for people of A-Level grade, and these may often include a route to further study, as well as ‘on the job’ learning, and a salary.
You can still go to university
If you have your heart set on going to university, but you didn’t get the grades you needed this time, you can either re-sit your exams, apply again for a different university or course next year, or do a one year foundation course, which leads on to a degree.
A gap year can be a great decision
However, it is vital that you make the most of the year and make sure whatever you choose to do is relevant. If you decide to go travelling, think about how you can build your skills during this time – could you do an intensive language course, or voluntary work while you are at home or abroad?
Taking a year out doesn’t have to mean travelling
YINI (Year In Industry) offers year long, paid placements in a variety of industries, and is designed to prepare people for university and a career. Or, if you would like a new experience, living away from home, but funding a trip abroad isn’t an option, take a look at voluntary programmes. For example, CSV (Community Service Volunteers) offers voluntary placements where living expenses are provided, and is a great way to gain experience and learn life skills.
Think about your future career
Work with your careers adviser to ensure you are on the right path. Building a successful career isn’t down to exam results alone. By making sure you have the relevant skills and experience, you will make yourself more attractive to universities and employers.
For more information visit www.careerswales.com or visit you local careers Wales centre in The Twyn, Caerphilly town.