Session One: English Alumni Panel

As part of Creative Futures, I attended an English alumni panel which placed emphasis on what career paths are available to students after completing an English degree. The session presented me with the opportunity to hear directly from alumni about what they have experienced within both their time at university and at  their current occupations. I appreciated the chance to see how people who used to be students are now flourishing, as it instilled hope and confidence in my regarding my own future. A primary theme throughout the panel was the importance of the transferable skills that students will acquire throughout their degree. The alumni discussed how skills such as communication and time management are relevant and applicable to a wide range of careers rather than just being tailored to fit one specific profession. This revelation allowed me to reflect on how my own skills that I have adopted throughout my studies will be useful and necessary when experimenting within different professional environments. 

Another topic of focus that stood out to me was the concept of adaptability and how it is a crucial trait to have. The alumni emphasised the importance of remaining flexible and being open to diverting your career path over time. I found it reassuring to hear how this panel of successful graduates also struggled with deciding their ultimate career path, which is a challenging decision that post-graduates have to make. This discussion helped me to realise that I do not need to have everything figured out immediately, and that it is okay to slow down whilst I find my footing. 

The alumni panel also highlighted the importance of communication within digital spaces. This communication can manifest in many forms such as writing professional emails and understanding perceived tone within online interaction. Admittedly, this is is not a concept that I had given much thought to until that moment in time. However, I now understand that possessing adequate communication skills is a key trait that will be required throughout my working life, especially within industries that heavily rely on digital interaction.

Moving on, I also enjoyed the conversation about confidence and creativity. The alumni detailed university as a beacon of exploration for students - a place where they can test ideas, take risks and learn from failure without facing any severe consequences. This piece of advice is one that will stick with me years down the line as it reinforced the idea that errors and experimentation are both crucial aspects of personal development.

So, to summarise,, the alumni panel was an enlightening experience that allowed me to gain a further understanding of the versatility of an English degree and  the significance of transferable skills within future job opportunities. Through revelation of personal anecdotes and lessons they have learned throughout their academic and professional lives, the alumni panel not only gifted me some valuable advice but also reminded me that it is perfectly acceptable to not have a clear vision for your future, time is not running out!