The juggling act

I always feel like a bit of an idiot when I openly acknowledge how challenging third year is. The work appears to come in hard and fast, the expectations double and the word dissertation could bring you to tears. On top of this, due to the current economy, the job market isn’t looking too fab for graduates. As a result, we are expected to up our game in terms of experience, as well as creating catchy job applications.

Over Christmas, I have been applying for grad roles and various internships. Although I have managed to secure an internship with a magazine (I will post about this later), the work is unfortunately unpaid. I have completed quite a few unpaid internships now and I am relieved to say that each one has been of some assistance in one way or another. However, I feel that I am at a point now where unpaid work is becoming a challenge and quite tiring if i’m honest. Students and graduates all partake in the same society as the rest of the world, where we need the basics to survive – food, shelter and so forth, so where do these companies think we will attain the resources for this if we are working for free full-time?

Don’t get me wrong, I’m very appreciative to have an opportunity that allows me into the doors of a London magazine, however I feel that I may start to feel slightly exploited after a short while of working for free (especially as I will have a degree at this point).

The Christmas holidays as a third year have been very difficult. After getting some job applications out of the way (thanks to a very helpful sister), the issue of revision jumps up and you feel the panic creep upon you again. On top of these academic issues, sometimes life gets in the way and doesn’t care if you like it or not. University is a huge test of character and whilst I have been a university student I have experienced significant personal growth as well as watching those around me transform.

It’s safe to say that during the exam period, coffee and biscuit consumption sky rockets alongside pointless procrastination. I’m hoping that you are all managing to hold your cool during this stressful time, I feel your pain and so do most students out there. So remember, you are not alone!