Mature student? Get career cosy this autumn

Posted on 1 November 2024 • Career planning

The warmth of experience

Mature students offer years of experience as reliable and useful as that trusted, well-loved woolly jumper we put on again every autumn. When you think about your career journey, don’t discount the value of what you already know. Like the warmth of a familiar jumper, your existing skills and experience can provide an extra layer of comfort as you explore new opportunities. Get comfortable and confident in Recognising your skills and what you have to offer.

Knitting together your skills and interests

Every one of your skills and interests knits together to form your unique experience, as does every stitch in a favourite pullover. Take some time to reflect on what you enjoy and how you can weave this into a more fulfilling future.

Layering for success

Building a career is like adapting to the changing seasons by learning to layer your clothes. As a mature student, your path to success involves more than just your degree. Think about layering your academic qualifications with additional training, professional networking, volunteering, or even hobbies which align with your career goals. These things can help you weather the ever-changing job market and get to ready to seize unexpected opportunities when they appear.

Embracing change and comfort

Your career is bound to go through transitions, just like the natural world does. These might feel challenging, but change can be a fantastic opportunity for growth. Reaching for your favourite woolly jumper as the temperature drops is a good reminder that you’ve navigated changing seasons before, and you will again. Develop your career resilience even further with our free Open Learn course.

Finding a good fit

You wouldn’t settle for a jumper that doesn’t fit. Similarly, don’t pressure yourself to rush into a job or career path that doesn’t align with your interests and values. Finding a career that fits might require ‘trying on’ some roles for size, so be patient with yourself. ’Try before you buy’ by trying work experience to test out a new field. Read about the benefits of gaining experience and how to choose the best option for you.

Next Steps

The future is yours to shape – and just like the perfect jumper, it’s about finding what works for you. OU Careers and Employability Services are here to help you tailor your next steps.