Students are being told outdated careers advice by their parents, teachers and other influential figures in their lives.
Whether that’s being told to “just walk in and hand in your CV” or that university is the only path to a well-paid career. While well-intentioned, many young people are finding that traditional guidance no longer reflects the opportunities and challenges faced today.
Careers expert and Co-Founder of early careers platform Higherin, Oliver Sidwell comments on how the many graduates and young professionals are feeling frustrated during this time:
“The younger generation are feeling stuck and unheard, especially when their parents are telling them to simply walk into an office and ask if they are hiring. Times have changed, jobs are limited and the number of applicants are at a record high.”
The job market is harder than ever with data from the UK Parliament showing that from February to April 2026 there were 735,000 young people ages 16-24 who were unemployed, when in 2025 that statistic was only 109,000 young people.
“The statistics show how young people are struggling more than ever before. They are overwhelmed by information and outdated advice,” he explains. “But even when they do everything right, there’s no guarantee it will lead to a job.”
“There are thousands of capable candidates doing all the right things, yet many still struggle to find opportunities because the competition is so intense,” Oliver adds.
Young people are often torn between two paths after school, enrolling at university or entering the workforce through an apprenticeship. Each route carries its own advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice ultimately depends on the individual.
Apprenticeships can be frequently overlooked but they offer a compelling alternative.
They allow young people to learn on the job, build their careers steadily and earn a wage while doing so. Job security is strong for those who complete the training, according to UCAS, 90% of apprentices remain in employment after finishing their apprenticeship.
In comparison, 87.6% of university graduates are in employment after graduating, though only 67.9% go on to work in high-skilled roles. Still, that does not diminish the appeal of a university education.
“For many students, the decision to attend can come down to the broader experience, the social life, the nightlife and the opportunity to live in a new city. Ultimately, evaluate your options, choose what suits your strengths and interests, and trust your own judgement.”
