5 things you should do now if you're graduating this semester

It is that time you are simultaneously expectantly looking forward to graduation and anxiously looking at the life after your university or polytechnic education.

If this is your last semester on campus, this is the right time to up your plans for life after graduation.

You really have no business occupying your minds with anxiety about what the future holds because you hold the key to the future if you start planning for your post-graduate life from now.

So, before you write your final paper and drop the pen, make sure you do these seven things.

1. Focus on self-development

If you have been concentrating your energy on reading and making sure you get good grades in all your examinations, now is the time to focus on personal development with that same energy. You must make sure you develop your personality and ability before writing the final papers.

2. Identify your area of interest

As a final year student, your area of interest should already be clear to you, as clear as the day. But if you haven't worked on that, this last semester offers you the chance to look inward and identify the path where your interest lies.

Identifying your interest will help you find a career path that is different from your course of study. Just explore, you'll find an interest.

ALSO READ:5 ways to avoid carryovers this semester

3. Polish your personal brand

I am sure you are on all social media platforms. It's cool. Your online presence is very important but while you stay relevant on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, make sure you package yourself on LinkedIn too.

Your Linkedin profile could help you get the job you want if it's well packaged. Polish it and let it aptly illustrate your academic history, achievement, qualities, and abilities.

4. Dust off your resume

You don't have to wait till after graduation before you start learning what and what should make up your resume. You know applying for job can be stressful and if your resume is not impressive enough, it won't get you the job.

If you already have a resume, update it. If you have never come up with one write one and make sure there is no mistake in it. Proofread it carefully before attempting to submit it anywhere.

5. Network

This is the last semester, networking is as important as your final year project. Network like you've never before. Attend campus events, meet people, join new groups or clubs on campus. Meet professionals in your career field. Ask questions about the company that picks your interest as well as about industry trends.

You never can tell, in the process of meeting and making new friends, you could meet people that could help you in your impending job search.