That time of year is coming again… and if you’re like me—a third-year student trying to figure out what’s next—you might be thinking: Should I do a master’s? Apply for an internship? Take a gap year to work or travel? Honestly, it feels a bit overwhelming. But even if you’re not graduating this year and just want to do a summer internship, now’s the perfect time to start getting ready. I’ve been collecting some resources and tips (mostly for myself, but why not share?) that can help us prepare and hopefully, we’ll get hired as fast as possible.

Step One: Show Up to Career Events

One thing I’ve realized is that career events are more useful than I expected. There’s the FSE Career Day happening on the 10th of April, where companies like Mercedes, Medtronic, and Computed will be there—it’s a great chance to talk to real people working in your field and maybe even find internship openings. Another event that caught my eye is Master Your Future on the 9th of April. I’m planning to go, and I really think it’s worth it if you’re unsure about your next steps. Plus, there are tons of workshops offered by UM Career Services, like how to improve your CV, write better motivation letters, and make your LinkedIn actually look professional. 

Step Two: Use the Support Maastricht University Offers

I didn’t know this at first, but UM Career Services has a lot of resources. There’s a Personal & Professional Development Portal with training, vacancies, and even an employability scan that gives you personal advice. I recently joined their Canvas course ‘Your Personal & Professional Development’—you get updates about events and access to 12 useful modules that help with career stuff. Also, they offer Quick Career Advice sessions (just 15 minutes online and totally free) and even career coaching if you need more in-depth help. And if you don’t know who to talk to, you can just walk in during the Career & Wellbeing hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Super chill and very helpful. You can use their services up to 6 months after you graduate!

Step Three: Start Talking to People

I used to think networking was scary or only for people who already had experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Lately, I’ve been trying to grab coffee with people who already work in fields I’m interested in. I ask them how they got started, what their job looks like, and then I just casually mention that I’m looking for a job or internship. Sometimes people really want to help. Also, don’t forget to tell your friends and classmates you’re looking—sometimes they know someone who knows someone. And there’s also the Alumni Coach Café where you can meet UM alumni, ask questions, and get career advice. 

Step Four: Build Your Profile Bit by Bit

This is something I’m still working on, but I’ve started taking my LinkedIn more seriously. I updated my photo, added my projects, and wrote a little summary that says what I’m looking for. It’s small, but it makes a difference. If you’re in a field like design, media, or data science, you might also want to build a portfolio to show what you’ve worked on. And don’t forget to keep your CV updated—even if you’re not applying yet, it’s better to be ready when the right opportunity shows up. UM Career Services can even give feedback on it for free.

So yeah, these are the things I’m doing right now to prepare for life after graduation. It still feels a bit scary, but knowing there are resources and people to help makes it way easier. If you’re in the same boat, maybe give some of these things a try. And if you ever feel stuck, you can always reach out to UM Career Services—they’ve got your back.

Let’s get that job ✨