I do not regret these experiences as I learnt social change is not a pipe-dream.

I graduated in 2015 with a degree in Politics, Philosophy and History. I wanted to change the world but felt completely unsure of what I wanted to do. I was uninspired by the clamour of my peers applying for graduate schemes. I dabbled with them. Filling out the personality assessment for the NHS Management scheme. I realised I didn’t want to be the person thrown into a situation where I was expected to sack employees to make efficiency savings. I failed that test, and fell short on other public sector grad schemes.
 

So, I opted for a different direction. I would pursue as many voluntary opportunities as I could before accepting my fate as an uninspiring desk-ridden drone. I went from volunteering with David Lammy MP to producing a video documentary about the Southall Indian Workers' Association, and even spent three months in Kenya on an International Citizen Service placement working with Kenyan entrepreneurs. Upon returning, I was a fellow on UpRising’s Environmental Leadership Programme – a one evening-a-week programme set up to enable 18-25 year olds to create an environmental action campaign of their choosing. My campaign flopped, but I learnt an incredible amount.

I do not regret these
experiences as I learnt social change is not a pipe-dream. It is achievable when you have been inspired by brilliant organisations and programmes set up to help young people realise change in the world. Finally, I had a wealth of experience that proved to me I could be a changemaker in the world.
 

Reality hit me though. Volunteering and casual part time work is fun, but ultimately unsustainable. I know I wanted to do something good for people and the planet, that would also give me an income and independence. But these job opportunities rarely come easily.

From September 2016, I have had several interviews with large NGOs and charities. Initially, it was a badge of pride to say that I has been interviewed by e.g. Greenpeace or VSO, even if I hadn’t gotten the jobs. Now it frustrates me. I always exhibited passion and enthusiasm for my potential employers, but it was never enough.

I've decided to pursue temp work to gain the all important 'office experience' I've lacked. I plan to do more interview practise. But, I've also decided to explore and work on my own projects. When I think about my achievements and the struggle to find a job which is relevant and meaningful to me, I realise there is far more I can do to stand out. 
 

At present, I have enrolled on ID House’s Youth Delegate Programme, designed to help young people create a project addressing any one of the 17 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and I’m planning out a British comedy blog! Aged 25 I must begin earning my keep, but I feel optimistic about turning any of my part time ambitions into full time ventures.

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