What to do...?

[kn123]

I graduated last year with an BSc. I haven't been able to find a real job yet... I've been working customer service jobs for basically minimum wage.

I've been thinking about going back to school but it seems like a huge investment (time and $) and doesn't guarantee me a job.

I'm feeling hopeless and still trying to pay off my student loan... Continue to job hunt? School?

Edited July 19, 2013 by kn123

[sarab]

Well, like you mentioned, going back to school takes time, money, and dedication. If you're not committed to the idea of graduate school then I would avoid the whole deal. Maybe you can learn different skills without the need of graduate school such as taking language classes, getting some sort of certificate on something you're interested in.

 

I know things are tough right now in the job market, but learning new skills can definitely set you apart and give you more opportunities.

 

Good luck!

[nugget]

Perhaps you could try volunteering once a week in a field or area of interest. ex: hospital, research lab, high school, etc. By volunteering you can try on a different "professional hat" and discover where your interests lie. You will make new contacts and may even develop new skills for free while you try to develop a clearer vision of what you'd like to do.

 

I'd also recommend reading What Color In Your Parachute?, if you get the chance. You should be able to find it in most libraries and bookstores. It's a great book to help people come up with a career plan, for career changers, and people in all kinds of situations who are seeking new employment.

[Rogue856]

If you're not certain you want to go to grad school I would suggest: 1) First and foremost continue to hunt for a job in your field and, as jenste suggested, look even for unpaid positions to gain experience...and... 2) Try leveraging you customer service experience to move into a better customer service related position. I started in retail, moved to call centers and ended up in a really, really great Account Management/International Sales position. I hated customer service at all levels but there are better positions than the minimum wage ones you just have to know how to "sell" your experience. (Just a note though, at that time in my career I lived in a metropolitan area which might have made things easier for me).

Edited July 20, 2013 by Rogue856