Planning for the Future: Insights from Forward College Graduates

Yohana’s Future Plans:

• Internship at L’Oréal: Yohana will embark on a six-month internship at L’Oréal in the DACH Area, Düsseldorf, focusing on learning and development.
• Pursuing a Master’s Degree: She will also be pursuing an online Master’s in International Leadership and Negotiation through UNITAR and Universidad Europea Valencia.

Myriam’s Future Plans:

• Mandatory Internship: As part of her Forward degree, Myriam will complete a mandatory internship.
• Master’s in Paris: She plans to further her education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Paris.

Emirhan’s Future Plans:

• Internship in Paris: Emirhan will begin with a one-month internship at an investment office in Paris.
• Startup Work in Berlin: He will then transition to working at a startup in Berlin over the summer, with hopes to continue part-time from London.
• Master’s at LSE: Emirhan plans to pursue a Master’s in Politics and Communications at the London School of Economics (LSE)

Myriam (International Relations):

• Stay Updated: “The world is continuously changing, so courses might be out-of-date. Keep up to date by reading more recent papers and following the news. Current topics could end up coming up in the exam.”

Yohana (Economics & Politics):

• Value of Dual Degrees: “The degree is the best of both worlds. It might seem as if everyone knows so much more since they can specialise, but you are covering two fields simultaneously. By year three, you’ll realise that everything connects and there are many relationships between economics and politics.”
• Prioritisation: “Don’t assume that you’ll perform equally well in every subject, especially since they are so different. It is completely valid to prioritise and not be able to always cover everything!”

Emirhan (International Relations):

• Practical Application: “Year three courses, especially development management, help bridge the gap between theorists and practitioners. Listen to various perspectives.”

Myriam:

• Balance: “Try to balance academics and future applications. Applying for master’s programs or the job market will be incredibly time-consuming and stressful. Make it easier for your future self during exam season!”
• Cherish Moments: “Enjoy your last moments with your cohort, no matter how ready you are to leave. The end will come sooner than you think.”

Yohana:

• Embrace Opportunities: “Don’t forget that Forward and the journey we go through is such an opportunity, not just academically but especially for personal growth. Enjoy and do all the things you want to do. You are in your twenties! Don’t leave with regrets for not taking advantage of every opportunity.”
• Focus on the Positive: “Even if the UoL and the British Council make mistakes, it’s out of your control. Of course, complain, but don’t let it take too much energy and time. Set it aside, let it go, and focus on what you can control. See the value of all the positive things this Forward journey offers you!”

Emirhan:

• Invest in Friendships: “Invest in your friends at Forward as they can serve as a safety net. They will help you survive and support you in tougher times, whether it’s exam season or personal issues. It’s about the people!”