Career Pathway 2 – Plan
Last Updated: August 29th 2025
Career Pathway 2
Plan
Once you know what you want to do, make a plan to get there.
If you change your mind later, don’t worry this is a valuable part of the process — just go back to the Decide stage and explore again.
Create a SMART action plan—set goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Break them into small steps to stay on track.
Also, stay open to unexpected opportunities! Life doesn’t always go to plan, and that’s okay. Being curious, flexible, and ready to adapt can lead to exciting chances you didn’t expect.
- Research employers in your chosen sector by looking on relevant Job Profiles on Prospects and follow them on LinkedIn
- Network at careers fairs, campus events and attend webinars – see Events on My Career and Target Jobs Events
- Get experience through paid work, volunteering, or work shadowing – see Opportunities on My Career and Prospects Work experience and internships
- Get job alerts for graduate schemes—most open in September/October of your final year – see My Career, Target Jobs and Bright Network
- Check if your career path requires a postgraduate qualification —use Prospects Job Profiles and make sure it’s recognised by the relevant industry body
- Attend open days, talk to lecturers, and find out more about course content—this can help with your application. Use Prospects Postgraduate Study or Find a Masters
- Access your My Career account and search Pathways for step-by-step guides. Try Masters courses – how to search, apply and fund (including Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding) or Get into Postgraduate Teacher Training
- Set deadlines and apply early — popular courses fill up fast!
If you’re a current student or graduated within the last 3 years (from a Level 5 course or above) on the Birmingham Newman campus, log in or register to access your My Career account. This will allow you to:
- Explore resources in Pathways and Careers Discovery
- Practice interviews, assessments etc. on Shortlist.Me
- Access workshops and events
- Get job alerts graduate jobs, workplace experience, volunteering opportunities and part-time jobs
- Book a 1:1 appointment with a member of specialist careers staff
Any Questions? Email: careers@newman.ac.uk
Ready to move forward? Head to the Compete stage for what to do next