Graduated, now what? 5 Tips to go from new grad to rising star – Bossing It

You’ve doffed your cap, celebrated your achievements, so what next? Graduation is a huge milestone, but figuring out your next steps can feel daunting. Whether you’re searching for your first graduate role, seeking networking opportunities, or working out what success looks like to you, you’re not alone. We spoke to some of our fantastic alumni for their top tips on how to go from fresh graduate to rising star.  

Toby Doman (BScEcon 2003)

Toby currently serves as Head of External Communications at a European investment business, PPF Group, based in Prague. He has 20 years of experience advising a range of global organisations on corporate affairs, reputation, public diplomacy and media relations issues.

Before returning to Europe in 2024, he spent a decade in Hong Kong and Singapore, working in a variety of roles. These included Group Head of Communications for global consumer finance operator Home Credit, and heading Asia-Pacific communications for Dow Jones and The Wall Street Journal. Toby also has experience in the broadcast sector, having worked as a presenter on UK commercial radio, BBC local radio, and on talk radio in Singapore.

Find your own path

The graduation gown is now safely back with the rental company and the autumn now stretches out. What’s next? Don’t rush, is my advice. Are you sure that you want to pursue a career in the subject you studied? If you were active in one of the University societies (it was Xpress Radio and DJing that opened the first work doors for me,) perhaps that offers a fresh route into something fulfilling. It’s not always going to be the most obvious route that gets you to where you want to go. Careers are now increasingly non-linear. Don’t be afraid to take the path less travelled to begin with.

Rosie Johns (BA 2014)

Rosie has a decade of experience in the marketing industry, working at global and independent book publishers, not-for-profit businesses, arts organisations and marketing agencies. Her expertise spreads across content creation, social media, SEO and outreach. She’s managed campaigns, events and website launches for brands both large and small, including PUIG, the Welsh Government, Penguin Random House, and Go.Compare. In her spare time, Rosie also runs a handmade pottery business, Heath and Sea.

Think you’ve chosen your career path? Discover the reality of the industry before you commit

Often, the reality of working in a certain industry can be vastly different to how you imagined it when you were still completing your degree. I always advise graduates to gain real-life experience to understand what the work will really be like – and whether it’s everything you want it to be. Look into work experience placements and internships and consider a broad range of opportunities. You may find that a job or industry you hadn’t previously considered is actually better suited to you.

When I graduated, I dove head-first into a career in book publishing – only to find that the industry wasn’t as forward-thinking as I thought it would be and didn’t give me the opportunity to develop my interest in data and analytics. Over several years, I explored roles in the arts industry, with charities and brands. Ultimately, I transitioned into the marketing industry, and a role I really enjoy.

Dr Tom Tatchell (BSc 2002, PhD 2006, MBA 2024)

Tom has over 15 years of experience in the Higher Education sector, specialising in education strategy, operational enhancement and delivering an excellent student experience. Tom founded and now leads his own company, Better Generation Solutions which provides consultancy and executive coaching to assist with aligning practices with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) in the education, EDI and sustainability sectors.

Don’t forget about Cardiff!

So, you’ve graduated – well done! Most of you will leave Cardiff after this period of study but certainly, do not forget about Cardiff!

Being part of the alumni community isn’t just about hearing how Cardiff fare in the Varsity in the spring semesters to come..! You will have an eternal bond with this university even after leaving, and with that, comes opportunity. For you and for future students of the University.

After gaining employment after graduation, there’s still the opportunity to engage with the University in a whole host of ways. Your alma mater schools will wholeheartedly welcome you back to give career journey and employment possibility talks to future cohorts. You can be the leading example of what you did with your degree and the skills you developed at Cardiff. Your employers, or even your own company (if you exercised that entrepreneurship streak and built your own business) could look to host students in a variety of ways to develop their skills.

Internships, research projects, and sponsorship are all ways to give back but positively influence the next generation of graduates from the school. There’s always a “gap” between what universities produce and what industry wants. This is an opportunity to address this and feedback as to what skills industry needs, what challenges are on the horizons and then university can look to respond and provide training in those key areas so the gap is lessened. Always keep Cardiff in your mind, as you never know when you may need its future graduates!

Grace Munyiri (MSc 2023)

Grace is the founder of Cacumator Mentorship, an award-winning initiative dedicated to empowering young African girls through education, mentorship, and career development in STEM.

Alongside her work in social impact, she is a data scientist and AI enthusiast with expertise in data science, machine learning, and emerging technologies. Grace combines her technical background with a passion for inclusive innovation, using data and technology to solve complex problems while creating opportunities for others.

Stay resilient

When I graduated, I believed success meant having everything figured out right away. The truth is, careers are rarely linear; they are built step by step, often in unexpected directions. My advice is to stay curious, invest in continuous learning, and embrace opportunities that stretch you beyond your comfort zone. Some of my most rewarding experiences came from saying yes before I felt fully ready.

Networking and mentorship have also been game-changers for me, because the right people can open doors you never imagined and guide you through challenges.

Most importantly, believe in your potential even when the path feels uncertain. Growth comes from consistency, resilience, and showing up every day with a willingness to learn. Trust that each step forward, no matter how small, is building your future.

Deio Owen (BA 2023)

Deio was the first full time Welsh Language Officer at Cardiff Students’ Union, serving as a sabbatical office for 2023/24. He is now the President of the National Union of Students Cymru, representing students at Welsh colleges and universities, and apprentices in Wales. He is also a Trustee of Urdd Gobaith Cymru, Wales’ largest youth organisation and studied Welsh and Politics.

Persistence is key

Don’t forget who you are and where you’ve come from – you change a lot during your time at university, whether you realise it or not. Don’t forget what motivated you during your studies and take it with you into the world.

Dyfal donc a dyr y garreg – a Welsh saying with a lot of meaning – persistence will take you far, and don’t give up when the going gets tough.

Ready to connect with fellow Cardiff alumni? Join our LinkedIn group and get networking.