Expert advises graduating students on navigating post-university life
By Idayat Hassan
A Counsellor with the Counselling and Human Development Centre, University of Ilorin, Dr Aminullahi Salman Alawaye, has urged final year students of the University to prioritise self-awareness and early preparation when choosing a career path after graduation.
Dr Alawaye gave this advice last Monday (September 22, 2025) during a special edition of the “Meet the Counsellor” programme on UNILORIN 89.3 FM anchored by Mrs Idayat Hassan.
Speaking on the topic “Career Guidance: How to Choose the Right Path After Graduation,” Dr Alawaye identified self-assessment as the critical first step for students grappling with post-graduation decisions.
He emphasised the importance of understanding one’s strengths, weaknesses, values, and passions, recommending practical tools like SWOT analysis, personality tests, and skill audits for a thorough self-evaluation.
“You have to know yourself before you can know what path fits,” Dr Alawaye stated while responding to a question on where students should begin.
Addressing the common dilemma of choosing between passion and practicality, the counsellor introduced the ‘Ikigai’ concept, which involves finding the intersection of what one loves, what one is good at, what the world needs, and what one can be paid for.
Dr Alawaye advised the students to carefully consider their reasons, such as specialisation or career requirements, and to research institutions, programme accreditation, and funding options like scholarships and assistantships.
On excelling in the job market, Dr Alawaye highlighted key employability skills sought by employers, such as communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy. To overcome the “experience barrier,” he recommended internships, volunteer work, and leveraging projects from university as valuable experience.
“Networking is about building genuine connections, not just asking for jobs,” Dr Alawaye noted, encouraging students to attend career fairs and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn.
Dr Alawaye assured anxious graduating students that a career is a journey, not a destination. He advised them to be proactive, resilient, and to utilise the services offered by the Counselling and Human Development Centre, which include one-on-one sessions and CV reviews.
He told the students,“Start your preparation early, even from 200 level,” and utilise the resources available to you on campus.”
