15 January 2026

If you've only just started studying, the 'job market' might feel a long way off. That's perfectly natural. The good news is, you're not expected to know right away what you want to do or where you want to end up.

But rest assured, from day one you are working towards your future. During your studies, you will gradually develop skills and gain experience that will contribute to your future career, whatever that may be.

Which skills are you learning without realising it?

During your bachelor's programme, and later during your master's, you will gradually develop skills and gain experience that will help you in terms of career development and preparation for the job market, whatever you decide to do. 

We also refer to these as your employability skills, i.e. the knowledge, skills and experience that make you employable on the job market. Gaining an insight into your own employability skills can help you realise you have more to offer than you think. 

Five ingredients of employability

1. Discipline-specific knowledge and skills

In other words, everything you learn within your study programme and the skills associated with it. 

2. Transferable skills you can use anywhere 

For example, research, analysis, collaboration, digital skills, verbal communication, writing skills, presenting and resilience. 

Tip: take a look in your study programme's prospectus to discover which skills you will develop in each course. 

3. Practical experience 

Through assignments, internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work or activities alongside your studies, you will discover what you enjoy, where your strengths lie, and what motivates you. By reflecting on this, you can gain insight into what might suit you career-wise, which in turn can help you consider your options and make informed choices.

Exercise: consider an activity you have already undertaken, for example a particular assignment, part-time job or voluntary work. What energised you and what didn't? And which skills did it help you to develop?

4. Self-reflection

During your studies you'll gradually get to know yourself better. What gives you energy? What do you find important? What are you proud of? 

5. Discovering the possibilities 

By listening to guest speakers from the field, asking alumni about their experiences, attending career events and company visits you can gain an idea of the direction you want to take.

Learn more about employability skills