The release of the matric results can be a very stressful time for school leavers. Now is the time for parents to speak to their teens and weigh out the various avenues for those who have yet to decide on what they are going to do after high school.
Di Charton, Senior Lecturer for Marketing and Advertising Communications at Red & Yellow Creative School of Business, provides some useful tips on how matriculants can approach their futures.
“Many fail to see the importance of broadening their perspective and considering various options. Whether by choice or circumstances, many matriculants might have to change direction and figure out what that next step will be,” says Charton. “The most important role of parents during this time is to be supportive and help their kids plan what those next steps will be.”
She outlines some of the situations that matriculates can find themselves in when leaving school:
- I don’t know what career path I want to take.
Many matriculants leave school without a clear direction regarding their future studies. “I would advise students to consider a general field of interest. Often, we see students lose interest in their chosen field and become disheartened, but by keeping it broad, rather than specific, you’re keeping your options open, often with career paths that were never even imagined at the start of study”, says Charton.
Students can also speak to career advisers who can help them better understand themselves and the career opportunities that are suitable for them.
“I would advise students to adopt a growth mindset of continuously learning new skills and staying up to date with what is happening in the job market. You might come across something that will spark your interest,” says Charton. Do your research and see what skills are currently in demand. According to the Career Junction Employment Insight Report for 2023, the most in-demand roles are Graphic Designer, User Interface Designer and Copywriter within the Design, Media and Arts sector.
- I received a rejection letter from the university that I wanted to study at.
The first thing to note in this situation is that a career path is not linear and there are different ways to get to an end goal. Being rejected by one university doesn’t mean being rejected by all of them.
“I would advise students to explore alternative avenues and institutions. Many tertiary institutions accept late applications – you just need to do your research. Just because one door is shut it doesn’t mean that they are all closed,” adds Charton.
“This is the ideal time for you to explore your further study options, which can range from a full-time degree to online and part-time learning,” says Charton. “There are plenty of accredited academic institutions that offer a wide variety of qualifications that you will find are suited to your results.”
- I didn’t get the matric results that I hoped to achieve.
As hard as it can be to not reach the results that were hoped for, school leavers need to move forward and not dwell on the past. “Put your energy into what your next step will be. During this time, it’s often hard to see that you don’t just have one option, there are different ways to achieve your goals,” adds Charton.
Learners who didn’t achieve a Bachelor’s pass can do an accredited Higher or National Certificate programme as an effective alternative route. This route can also enhance critical skills for the learner and help them with their upcoming studies and future careers.
There is also an opportunity to upgrade marks or rewrite the exams. Matriculants will have the option to either redo all subjects or just a few that are required to be accepted into a particular course.
- I can’t find work after receiving my matric certificate.
For some matriculants, it may not be possible to continue with further education and finding a job can be difficult. “I would advise students to apply for an internship or leadership. This will allow you to gain practical experience which will prepare you for your future. Upskilling yourself is critical, especially in the current working environment,” explains Charton.
Many small and large companies take on matriculants as entry-level trainees. Interns that are dedicated to working and learning, will grow within that organisation. This practical experience can also be useful down the line.
“There are also promising developments in the tech and digital economy that aim to create more job opportunities, so building on those technical skills will also make you more employable down the line “, adds Charton.
The bottom line is that everyone has different learning styles, and some learners succeed at a long academic career while others thrive doing shorter sprints. It is key to establish what works for you.
Red & Yellow School of Creative Business offers a variety of accredited undergraduate degrees, national and higher certificates, advanced diplomas as well as online short courses and qualifications, all designed to set students on the path to a successful career.
To find out more about how you can apply to the Red & Yellow Creative School of Business go to https://www.redandyellow.co.za/.