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.

Step 1: Set your goals

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.

Step 2: Start your graduate job search

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
Direct entry jobs can be found on online jobs boards e.g. WM Jobs (public sector jobs in the West Midlands) and NHS Jobs

Step 3: Explore Postgraduate Study

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!

Step 4: Seek professional support – My Career

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

< Career Pathway 1: Decide

Career Pathway 3: Compete >

Career Pathways