50 years ago, things were different. You did your O-levels (your parent’s version of GCSEs), maybe did some A-Levels, maybe went to university, and then got a job for life. Maybe you’d be a doctor, or a lawyer, a writer or an engineer. There were certain, traditional professions, and unless you wanted to be an artist or a radical intellectual, that was pretty much it.
Nowadays, of course, things are different. Jobs exist now for industries which hadn’t even been created when you were born. You could be a social media influencer, or a competitive coffee artist, or a disruptive advertiser organising stunts for a brand. You might become a programmer for a social network which hasn’t even been invented yet, an ‘innovator’ (yes that’s a real job) or an app designer.
(This is a real job too!)
What we’re trying to say is that a linear path through your career – and life – is probably no longer an option. Which is, if you think about it, kind of wonderful. You’re going to have chances to create your opportunities and build the kind of life you want. This does mean, however, that certain traits are going to become more important than ever – traits which include being entrepreneurial and leading the way. Forbes points out that in interviews, employers look for skills which aren’t listed on the job description, such as the ability to be proactive and responsible. So why not start developing these skills now?
Who knows what job you may have in the future?
Being proactive is something which is valued not only by employers, but also by universities. According to an article on the Top Universities website, US universities look for students who have held positions of responsibility – and there’s no reason to think the criteria would be any different this side of the pond. If you set up your own society, or lead your own fundraiser, your application will definitely stand out among those thousands of other UCAS submissions. Here’s how to go about doing that:
1. Identify a gap
What is missing from your school at the moment? Maybe you need an art society, or you want to expand the range of sports teams – Quidditch anyone? If you’re into writing, or interested in journalism, then set up a magazine. The world is your oyster. Charity fashion shows, sponsored skydives, hiking trips, knitting club – anything goes!
2. Talk to your teachers
Schools often have a lot of red tape. Before doing anything, talk to your teachers to check if there are any procedures you have to comply with, or if there is any paper work you need to fill out. Additionally, they may be able to help, or offer you some funding – schools often have a pot of money available for societies and extra-curricular activities. Find out if you are eligible for any of this.
3. Get your friends on board
Whilst you may be leading the new society, you can’t do everything yourself. Get some responsible friends on board to help you plan and execute events – and if they’re not sure they want to be involved, point them to this article!
4. Promote your society or event
Ask to have a notice read out in assembly, and put up posters around the school. Make an event or a page on Facebook to spread the word and keep people updated. Or, if your school provides school email addresses, you could set up a mailing list. Have a launch event to get people excited – preferably with free food!
5. Keep going!
Often, getting started can be the easiest part. The real test of character comes when your initial enthusiasm starts to wane. At this point, keep in mind why you wanted to start your society in the first place. Come up with new ideas to keep it fresh and exciting. Think about ways in which your club could grow in the future – perhaps you could get relevant speakers to give talks at school, or create links with other local schools or organisations. Have a one year plan in place to keep you motivated and on track.
More tips and tricks can be found here and here.
So, what are you waiting for?
Written by Lauren Chaplin