From English Lit to the Real World: Making Your Degree Work for You

Hey everyone, I remember when I was finishing my English degree, there was this little voice in my head, 'What on earth am I actually going to *do* with this?' It felt like everyone else had a clear career path, while mine was... well, a bit more literary and less linear! But looking back, I've realised that our degrees, especially in subjects like English, arm us with some seriously powerful tools. We're not just good at analysing texts; we've honed critical thinking, can articulate complex ideas clearly both in writing and speaking, manage our own projects, and dig deep into research. These aren't just 'soft skills' – they're absolute gold in pretty much any workplace. I know it can feel a bit daunting when you see job descriptions asking for very specific technical skills. But honestly, many employers are actively looking for people who can think, communicate, and adapt. I've seen English grads thrive in everything from marketing and PR to project management, publishing, and even non-technical roles in finance or tech, where clear communication is vital. One thing I've learned, and something I wish someone had told me more explicitly, is that your first job out of uni doesn't have to be your *dream* job. It's totally okay, and often really smart, to take on roles that might seem a bit tangential at first – think admin, customer service, or even retail. These jobs are fantastic for building professional experience, understanding workplace dynamics, and often open doors you didn't even know existed. It's about playing the long game, gathering skills, and making connections. So, if you're an English grad, or from any humanities background really, don't sell yourself short. Your ability to think, write, and communicate makes you incredibly valuable. Be confident in those skills, and don't be afraid to take a few unexpected detours on your career journey. What have others found to be the most surprising career paths for humanities grads?