UPDATE: As Year 12 students near the end of their schooling, many are grappling with the urgent question of what comes next. High school careers adviser Judy Ing emphasizes that students must navigate their futures amidst significant pressures.
In an interview, Ms. Ing shared her own journey from a deer farm in Central Tilba, NSW, to a fulfilling career helping students find their paths. She experienced firsthand the uncertainties of transitioning from high school to adulthood. “I always say, ‘Be kind to yourself; you don’t have to have all the answers – just work out the next step,’” she advises.
Students are facing mounting pressures as they consider their future plans. Many are concerned about the financial burdens of higher education, including accommodation costs and potential HECS debt. “It’s particularly concerning for farming families who often have large debts but are excluded from support due to asset assessments,” Ms. Ing pointed out.
With the school year ending, the job market is heating up. According to ViewJobs founder Jake Williams, job advertisements in sectors like retail and hospitality begin to surge in October. “They show a real increase over the summer months after leaving school,” he noted.
Ms. Ing encourages students to keep their options open. “Apply to universities and consider deferring if you’re unsure. Sometimes, gaining work experience can clarify your direction,” she stated. She highlighted the success stories of students who took alternative routes, like a recent case of a student who secured a traineeship at a law firm that led to a cadetship, covering their university expenses.
Local businesses such as SunRice in the Murrumbidgee region and the Australian Defence Force are offering paid gap year programs, providing students with the chance to work while gaining experience. International gap year options are also becoming popular, allowing students to travel while contributing to their finances.
As the pressure mounts, Ms. Ing urges students to communicate openly with their families about their hesitations regarding immediate university enrollment. “Sometimes, they just need to decompress after 13 years of schooling,” she said.
The application process can be daunting, but Mr. Williams reminds students to keep their resumes error-free and professional. “Employers appreciate punctuality and a positive attitude, especially from those without extensive experience,” he added.
As Year 12 students prepare for their next steps, the urgency to define their futures has never been more critical. With evolving job markets and diverse pathways available, now is the time for students to seize opportunities and explore their passions.
