MAKE IT IN THE BIG WORLD
SCHOOL leavers are encouraged to keep their finances in check and hold tight to their dreams if they are to succeed in the next step of their career journey.
Meanwhile, those still at school are encouraged to find part-time emplyment to ease their transition to life after Year 12.
Steve Clifford, chief executive of Doxa, a not-forprofit organisation for disadvantaged children, says the stress release that comes with finishing school is often quickly replaced by new anxieties about adjusting to work or tertiary study.
“This period (of leaving school) is often stressful for many young people and can become a rollercoaster of emotions,” Clifford says.
“School is such a supportive environment but, when you come out of that, it can be quite challenging. “It’s harder these days. “There’s a lot of pressure to get into that university course or to go out and get a job – but it’s not always that easy.”
Heart Sparks life coach Johanna Parker says school leavers often report a lack of motivation as they struggle with their new circumstances, but what they really lack is commitment.
“Being committed is a skill that can be learned,” she says.
“It’s about continuing to show up when things feel hard and motivation is waning, especially (if) you are being turned down for jobs or further study.”
Shelley Fenech, 22, says it took time to transition into university but perseverance paid off.
“At high school, they really want you to do well but at university it can feel like your lecturers don’t care,” says the 22-year-old, who now works as a sales and marketing assistant at Anecdote.
“It is hard to stay motivated.
“I found going to the (university) library was a good strategy for me to get work done.
“When I was (studying at home) it was too easy to be distracted.”