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Don't let it define you...

My son, Oli, just graduated from high school. What a year for him and his peers, not to mention the whole family. Although it didn’t dominate, the pressure was always there with comments such as “try to enjoy yourself” and “the mark should never define you”. The stress of the HSC itself and the internal pressure that students put on themselves is worrying. (A discussion for another day.)

As someone who helped the growth of many careers over the past 25 years, I feel well equipped to give Oli, and other recent graduates, my sage advice in the age of COVID.

In a developed economy like Australia, graduates will have choices. For Oli, his choice of tertiary studies will not define who he is or even what his future will bring. We see this where the large accounting firms used to be adamant that you graduate in commerce, economics or accounting; however, the breadth of studies they now consider is more all-encompassing. They accept, strive and espouse for a diversity of thought. So, study what you enjoy and what resonates with you.

Know that you have experienced one of the most unusual and challenging years because of COVID. Striving to focus on your studies, preparing for the end of year exams yet still attempting to enjoy your final year of school with your friends is a balance that your predecessors have not faced. Every challenge brings new learning. You have learnt to be creative, flexible and resilient.

What you choose now does not mean you have to do this forever. We are all different. Some people have clarity in their direction, whereas I believe the majority of us are unsure. Career-minded individuals will have several jobs and career changes. No longer limited to a specific industry or discipline, you can enjoy personal growth as well as a rewarding career. Today, the employment market is so much more fluid. Organisations often welcome diversity in thinking that a more varied career provides.

I see Oli’s enthusiastic optimism and plans for the future as refreshingly innocent. The big wide world awaits whatever that may bring. Could it be a gap year, off to work in some capacity or university? 

Whatever his decision, I know that he and his peers will not be defined by that “mark”, that university degree or that first job. People change roles and professions at many ages and stages in their career. In these un-navigated economic times, choices may be limited, however, take courage and enjoy the journey. Those first choices will not define you.

Michael Murrie - Director