Helping a new graduate in life/career decisions

[slimjim]

My niece graduates this year and doesn't really know what to do. She has no father and relies on me for advice. I always try and give as good advice as I can but I'm a bit out of touch with the younger generation and never went to University so don't really know about her options.

What should I suggest that she do? I'm guessing that a graduate training programme at any major company is a good idea and will look good on her CV in years to come. How and when does one apply for these.

She has expressed an interest in  marketing or PR. Who are the big companies in these arenas?

Should I tell her to take a year or two off until she does know what she wants to do on the basis that I don't want her to start somewhere just for the sake of it.

Can anyone suggest some exciting or interesting career options?

[Scarlett]

What qualifications does she have at the moment? Does she want to carry on studying, or is she keen to get a job?

[slimjim]

She should get a 2:1 in American Social History and doesn't want to continue studying.

[Scarlett]

I think the best bet is for her to see the careers service at her university. They will be experienced in setting people up with companies who are looking for graduates in areas such as marketing or PR.

[cassimer]

Hi!
I am just about to graduate too and know her predicament. I think graduate schemes are a great opportunity, but they are competitive, especially in PR and marketing.
Unfortunately she has left it a little late to apply to most companies starting sept time. There are some that recruit all year round, but most recruit in sept-jan/feb time, with job offers by May.
My careers service have been fantastic, and most support you for two years after your graduation as well. The prospects graduate handbook is a must, so tell here to get hold of one.
Also she should consider big supermarkets etc for marketing jobs - often less considered but massive amount of training and support sometimes not found elsewhere, and after the few years training, much easier to break into big marketing companies. PR is harder - sometimes best to temp and work your way in and up, but there are some schemes available.
Make sure she gets her applicaitons in early after graduation, contact someone in the company for more information, and attend any events they are running re recruitment so she looks keen. Relevent work experience is generally a must. All my interviews have been based on work experience whilst at uni. Most are now online to start with, which take hours to fill in well, and I have had up to four interviews subsequently to get job offers.
Hope this helps