Graduation should be filled with excitement and possibility—but for many, it brings uncertainty and anxiety.

The 2024 Joint Autonomous Universities Graduate Employment Survey found that only 79.5% of graduates secured full-time permanent positions, down from 84.1% last year. That means nearly one in five did not land a full-time role.

For private university graduates, the situation is even tougher. The latest Private Education Institution Graduate Employment Survey revealed that just 58.7% secured full-time permanent positions.

Today’s job market is changing fast. Companies are more cautious, contract roles are increasing, and industries are being reshaped by technology. DBS Bank, for instance, recently cut 4,000 jobs as it shifts towards AI and automation.

Last Friday at SIM, I spoke with students about financial literacy and life after school.

What stood out most was their thoughtfulness, honesty, and openness. Many students shared concerns about job security and worried that some employers may view autonomous university graduates more favourably.

Hearing their concerns resonated deeply. At 21, I had similar misconceptions—I assumed private university admissions were mostly about financial resources.

Working part-time in university changed my perspective. I met private university students who shattered my assumptions—not all came from privilege. Many worked to pay tuition, supported their families, or overcame personal struggles just to earn their degree.

Over time, I came to see private education as a second chance for those who refuse to give up.

Whether you’ve graduated from an autonomous university or private university, one thing is clear—today’s job market is more competitive than ever. Remember, you are not alone. Your career journey is yours to shape, and with the right approach, you can build a future that fulfills you.

Here are three practical steps you can consider:

1. Don’t Let Your Past Define Your Potential

Your 20s are a time of profound transformation. Who you are at 23 may feel unrecognizable from who you become at 33. I know this firsthand—over the last decade, I’ve stumbled, learned hard lessons, and matured into a completely different person in some ways.

My friend, Heron Lim, a 2012 SIM-UOL graduate who is now an Economist at Moody’s Analytics, exemplifies this journey. His insights are regularly featured on Bloomberg and BBC, proving that perseverance, continuous learning, and resilience matter far more than where you began.

Your value is not determined by where you started but by how you grow from it. Instead of dwelling on labels, focus on becoming the best version of yourself.

Focus on growth, build your skills, and create meaningful impact. When you show up consistently, the right opportunities will follow

2. Go the Extra Mile When Applying for Jobs

When I was laid off, I didn’t just send out mass applications—I was laser-focused on two companies. I went all in, researching the two companies deeply, understanding their needs, and even listening to podcasts and speeches by the decision makers.

To land my current role, I took an extra step — I reached out directly to the hiring manager on LinkedIn and even created a personalized video. That effort helped me stand out.

Most job seekers rely on job portals, but we can take a smarter approach. By researching companies, reaching out directly, and personalizing our applications, we stand out in a crowded market

Initiative and creativity open doors. Those who go the extra mile stand out and get ahead.

3. Embrace the “骑牛找马” Strategy

In a competitive job market, your ideal role may not be available right away. That’s where the wisdom of the Chinese proverb “骑牛找马” (riding the cow to find the horse) comes in. It reminds us that sometimes, we have to start with something that isn’t perfect but keeps us moving forward.

Your first job isn’t your last. Instead, see it as a stepping stone. It can offer valuable experience, industry exposure, and networking opportunities that will help you get to where you want to be.

Even if it’s not your dream job, it can still be valuable:

• Expand your network and introduce you to opportunities.
• Equip you with skills that strengthen your future job prospects.
• Give you industry exposure and clarity on your long-term goals

Success isn’t about landing the perfect job immediately—it’s about making progress and positioning yourself for future opportunities.

Personal effort matters, but we also need a system that values both skills and academic qualifications. A hiring culture that prioritizes talent, resilience, and ability—rather than focusing solely on academic prestige—will create more opportunities for all.

By valuing skills alongside formal education, employers and policymakers can access a broader, more capable talent pool.

A degree provides a strong foundation, but long-term success depends on how knowledge is applied, adaptability to change, and a commitment to continuous learning

I’ve learned this firsthand—waiting for change doesn’t work. We must create it. The future isn’t something we wait for—it’s something we shape with the choices we make today. Let’s take charge, stay adaptable, and build the future we deserve.

We’re in this together. If you’ve found ways to stand out in a competitive job market, share them. Let’s uplift and support each other—when we grow as individuals, we strengthen our generation.

Your past doesn’t define your future—your actions do. Take charge, take action, and shape the future you want.