Not many people would question the difficulties of university study and then progressing onto a graduate job. Some students will inevitably find this process easier than others, but is there really a significant difference between the attitudes of male and female undergraduates? Recently a survey has revealed that girls have a more realistic attitude about the difficulties of finding a graduate job and are less optimistic than their male counterparts. It seems that girls are prepared to work harder since 66% said they expected to do unpaid work experience to secure their desired job, compared to 57% of males. Also, with respect to salaries, girls anticipated an average starting salary of £23,000 whereas boys expected £24,500. Therefore, on the surface it seems that boys are expecting an easier situation on the whole in the jobs market.
However, it is important to realise that surveys of this nature are based on the views of a certain number of people and it is very difficult indeed to generalise according to gender. For example, all students are over optimistic about the average starting salary for particular jobs. This is especially true in the current circumstances where it seems like paying higher tuition fees will result in higher salaries once in employment. Still, it is important to keep a realistic attitude and carry out research about comparable jobs in the industry. Each profession will have different starting salaries and then subsequent increases depending on promotion prospects. It is important to consider long-term career progression and not merely have your opinion swayed by an impressive starting salary.
The statistics also revealed that the girls surveyed had a stronger work ethic and were prepared to work in their university holidays to gain relevant experience. Again this is only a sample of the population, but the key message for all students is to use their spare time effectively. There is currently a very competitive jobs market and so doing work experience will help you discover more about the career path and also make contacts in the industry. In a way, this is more about having the determination and motivation to succeed and doing everything you can to develop your overall skill set. For example, if you think that certain work experience or extra-curricular activities will help you to obtain a good job in the future, then this is exactly what you should pursue.
Overall, when reading the results of surveys, students should remain rational and understand the key learning points. These include working hard during the university holidays to develop good experience and being realistic both about the sheer competitiveness of the graduate jobs market and the starting salaries available. After all, preparation is the key to success and it is better to be in a more informed position (whatever your gender), before you embark on your career path.
Arnab Datta
