Life after graduation, how is it really?
Graduating from university marks the start of a new chapter - filled with excitement, challenges, and a lot of learning. The transition from student life to a professional career is something all graduates will face. But what is it really like? To find out, we spoke with Gina Palalae and David Costin, both are alumni from Saxion HBO-ICT program who are now software developers at Ecare. They share their journey from graduation to work life and offer valuable advice for current students.
From University to work, the big shift
For many graduates, the shift from student life to a full-time job is an adjustment. Flexible schedule and last-minute study sessions are gone, instead, work comes with structure, deadlines, and daily responsibilities. Gina describes the transition as a major change, especially in terms of scheduling. While university allowed flexibility, work requires a fixed routine, which brings discipline and stability. Now she appreciates the balance of 9 to 5 schedule, where work is done during the day, and the evenings are completely free. It is also a relief for David, because no stress of exams and project deadlines hanging over his head. He enjoys the clear separation between work and personal time. Initially, he worried about whether his skills would be enough for the job, but as he mentioned: “In reality, people in the workplace are very helpful and always willing to guide you. That made the transition much easier.”
Finding your path in IT, where do you belong?
IT is a big field, and choosing the right specialization can feel overwhelming. Many students wonder if they should pursue backend development, frontend, cybersecurity, or AI. For Gina, the answer came through hands-on experience. Her internship allowed her to try different aspects of software development—frontend, backend, and testing. That experience helped her realize what she truly enjoyed and guided her career choices. Same is for David, but he also adds that specializations during university help to understand what the perfect fit is. “The best way to figure it out? Try different things, gain experience, and see what excites you the most.”
Job hunting, where to start?
As Gina and David mentioned, finding the first job is often one of the biggest concerns for graduates. The job market is competitive and knowing where to start can make all the difference. David highlights the importance of LinkedIn - making connections, engaging with recruiters, and staying active in the IT community. It can open many doors. Having experience, such as an internship, also helps to understand offers. "There will always be a company that’s the right fit for you, but you need to keep looking. Don’t set expectations about working at a big-name company straight away. Be realistic—choose a company based on its culture, the team, and opportunities for growth, not just status or salary.” – Gina makes a remark to advise students about their path.
Do more networking, talk with people!
What is work really like?
One of the biggest fears students have before working is whether they will be expected to perform at a senior level immediately. The reality? Most companies understand that graduates need time to adjust. David reassures students that employers don’t expect them to know everything from day one. New hires are given time to learn, ask questions, and get used to their roles. The environment is more supportive than students often imagine. Work is also much more collaborative and social, the office environment encourages teamwork. There are coffee breaks, team lunches, and casual interactions, making work both productive and enjoyable.
What are companies looking for?
While technical skills are important, they are not the only thing employers look for. In many cases, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability are very important. Employers want someone who can work well in a team, communicate ideas clearly, and take initiative. Many interviews focus less on technical questions and more on getting to know the candidate—how they think, what motivates them, and whether they would fit into the company culture. The best advice? Be yourself, be confident, and be honest. Companies value enthusiasm just as much as technical expertise.
Common mistakes of graduates
- Not asking for help. It’s okay if you don’t know everything, just communicate and ask for support.
- Chasing the highest salary. A good salary is important, but so is the company culture, work environment, and learning opportunities.
- Not setting boundaries. Your managers and colleagues won’t know how you feel unless you communicate. Take care of yourself.
- Underestimating soft skills. Your ability to collaborate, communicate, and problem-solve is just as important as coding skills.
Staying connected with Saxion
Even after entering the workforce, Gina and David stay connected with Saxion. They keep in touch with their professors, visit campus occasionally, and are sometimes invited to university events. Gina and David mention: “The connection between students, alumni, and teachers in HBO-ICT Saxion is strong. It’s rare to see that at universities."
Tips for students
- Start networking early
Use LinkedIn, connect with recruiters, and engage with the IT community. - Don’t overthink your career path
Try different roles and see what you enjoy the most. - To keep pushing forward
With dedication and hardworking, you will find success. - Your first job is about learning, not just salary Focus on growth, not just money.
- You’re not expected to know everything Companies give you time to learn and adapt
Stay curious, keep learning, and just be happy!