Your final year is a juggle: project deadlines, exams, life decisions. But while you’re studying, it’s smart to treat the job hunt like a parallel project. Start early, stay consistent, and you’ll be far ahead when graduation and NYSC arrive.
Phase 1: Build the Foundation (First Semester: Sept – Dec)
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Know yourself well
Reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, passions, and work environment preferences (corporate, startup, public sector, etc.). -
Create a Master CV
Assemble a comprehensive version of your resume every project, volunteer role, skill, and achievement. Later you’ll pick and choose what fits each application. -
Optimize your LinkedIn profile
Use a professional photo, craft a headline that states your field + ambition, and write a clear “About” section. Start connecting with classmates, lecturers, alumni, and professionals in your desired industry. -
Fill skill gaps
Look at job listings in fields you want and see what skills they demand. Use online learning platforms to acquire high-value skills, Excel, data analysis, basic coding, digital marketing, or project management, depending on your path.
Phase 2: Take Intentional Action (Second Semester: Jan – May)
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Custom-tailor every application
Don’t send generic submissions. For each job, read the description, match your CV and cover letter to it, and highlight relevant accomplishments. -
Build a list of target employers & set alerts
Pick 20–30 organizations you’d love to work for big firms, startups, SMEs. Follow them, and create job alerts on portals (Jobberman, LinkedIn, etc.) using keywords like “graduate trainee,” “entry-level,” and roles specific to your field. -
Practice interviewing early
Don’t wait till you’re invited. Prepare answers to common questions (e.g. “Tell me about yourself,” “Strengths & weaknesses”), learn the STAR method for behavioral responses, and prepare questions you’ll ask the interviewer. -
Clean up your online presence
Search your name. Remove or privatize any content that could be seen as unprofessional (controversial comments, inappropriate photos). Your digital footprint should strengthen, not hurt, your professional image.
Phase 3: Transition & Apply (Final Exams to NYSC Mobilization)
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Apply aggressively to graduate trainee programs
Many top firms open their graduate recruitment during this period. Apply early. Prepare for aptitude tests, assessments, and interviews. -
Showcase your work in a portfolio
Especially in fields like tech, design, writing, etc., a portfolio speaks louder than a CV. Use GitHub, Behance, your own blog/website, or writing platforms. -
Organize your documents in advance
Keep scanned and ready copies of: transcripts or statements of result, identity cards, birth certificate, passport-style photos, etc. No rushing last minute.
Phase 4: Execution During NYSC & Beyond
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Be strategic about your NYSC posting
Where you’re posted matters. Use connections to try to get placed in commercially active states or cities where your industry thrives. -
Treat your PPA (Place of Primary Assignment) like a job
Even if it’s not your ideal role, take it seriously. Be punctual, take responsibility, document achievements. These experiences can become strong CV points (e.g. leadership, communication, stakeholder management). -
Network relentlessly during service
Your fellow corps members will disperse into all kinds of industries. Build genuine relationships. Also seek connections in your host community, businesses, NGOs, local firms. -
Develop resilience in the face of rejection
Expect “We regret to inform you” emails. Don’t take them personally. Instead, review, learn, adjust, and move forward. Persistence is a critical success factor in Nigeria’s job market.
You are in charge of your future.
Job seeking while in school might feel like an uphill battle, but breaking it down into these phases turns it into manageable steps. Stay organized, maintain momentum, and trust that with consistency, you can move confidently from final exams to your first professional role.
