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I'm exploring ideas

Whether your next move is to explore a little and try something new, or to reflect on your personal preferences and start planning, the important thing is to make a start. 

On the Careers Readiness Grid, you are on:

Quadrant 1: Where and how do I start?

To help you make a start in thinking about your career and plan your next move, read the information on generating career ideas. 

The Careers Service runs a wide range of career events and workshops to help you explore your options and find direction. 

You can use our resources on how to build employability skills and sign up for Insight Programmes for practical introductions to sectors. We also recommend that you get involved with a student society. 

The pointers opposite (for students in Quadrants 2 and 3 indicate more specifically what’s needed to move ‘down’ and ‘right’ on the Career Readiness Grid to Quadrant 4. Remember, it’s never too late to start, and the team of Careers Advisers is here to support you all the way. 

Key resources

Five hanging light bulbs against a dark blue-to-black gradient background. The bulb on the far left is brightly illuminated with a blue glow, while the other four remain unlit, symbolizing a standout idea, innovation, or inspiration.

Generating Career Ideas

Effective career planning emerges from combining self-awareness with research into industries and roles to find a fit that is right for you.

Five students working together around a table, discussing notes and study materials

Build skills

Skills development programmes for Oxford students designed to develop transferable skills, strengthen CVs, provide insight into different sectors and support career exploration.

Four students walk together through a garden at the University of Oxford, talking and smiling.

Term planner

The upcoming career and employability events from Careers, University of Oxford, open to students, researchers, and alumni.

Careers adviser in careers advice appointment with student in person

Career advice appointments

University of Oxford students and recent alumni can access impartial one-to-one advice on any careers-related topic, including applying for jobs, further study, and developing their skills.