Results: what next? The dilemma

It's results week - remember that? I do. The fear, the uncertainty, holding that envelope in your hand knowing it could shape your future.

Back then, I had a good idea what I wanted to do, how to achieve it - and most importantly - I knew there were opportunities out there.

The results students of 2009 have no less ambition or drive - but their opportunities are limited, through no fault of their own, because we're in the middle of a recession. Even graduates are struggling to find the level of position they're qualified for. One recent report revealed 45 university leavers are applying for every graduate position.

The figures are worrying: the highest unemployment level for 15 years - nearly a million of them in the 18-24 year old age group. School leavers facing the worst conditions since 1929.

But there are alternatives to job hunting. There is, of course, the increasingly popular gap year which offers - quite literally - a whole world of possibilities.

There is the option of looking at further study and that doesn't have to mean academic study. Vocational courses could be a valuable option, arming you for the world of work while giving you the skills to elevate you above the usual entry level.

We have been involved in sponsorship of business, secretarial and administrative based courses at local colleges in and around Peterborough. They've suffered from a lack of students applying for them. But the skills taught on them are universal leaving students in good stead for securing any number of roles.

It's about exploring all the options available, taking the market conditions into account and making the decision that'll best work for you.

That's what I did too!

http://www.recruitmenttoday.net/News/Story/?title=School%20leavers%20face%20worst%20conditions%20since%201929&storyid=678&type=news_features
http://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk
http://www.gapyear.com