THE time after graduation is when youngsters go through a phase when they have to carefully choose their future paths. They are often stuck at crossroads where hey have to choose between further studies and jobs. From working to gain experience to planning for an MBA, college students who have just graduated have several plans for their future.

For mass communication graduate Varun Sharma, who studied at Webster Academy, working for a year and then doing post graduation sounds feasible.

"I want to do my post graduation in radio production, but first I want some work experience to decide whether I want to work for a few years or want to study. I am working as a web writer in Global Surf. Though radio production is what I have planned for now, this job will help me figure out whether I am more interested in writing or radio," he said.

His friend and neighbour Ashish Joshi, a BIM graduate from NCCS, too has opted to work before doing his post graduation. "This will help me get an experience and a chance to get to know the industry. Working before your post graduation will give me a better understanding of my aptitude and what suits me. It will help you make a well-informed choice about your future," says Ashish, who is currently working as a software professional.

Utsav Khadka, who just finished a three-year course in BBA, is planning to work for a year and, alongside that, take the IELTS classes as he wants to do his MBA abroad for which work experience counts.

"The MBA will have value as my work experience will enrich it. I am not looking at a three-year work experience as some universities suggest as I do not want to put in too much time working and then do my post graduation really late. I want to reach a balance between the two," says Utsav, who plans to start a fast food chain in Kathmandu one day.

While he is currently looking for a job, he also says that taking a break from studies will help him prepare for the IELTS, which will increase his communication skills in the English language. "I hope to get into the top colleges, if not into the Ivy League colleges, in America. Among my friends one got into the University of Berkeley and is going to do his PG in mass communication there. Two others are planning to do their PG in journalism," he said.

Whether it is a gap year or their first job or further studies, young graduates are carving their future with hope of making it big.