Young graduates struggle to find work in their fields

Two young university graduates say finding work related to their studies has proved harder than expected, ERR reports, in an episode of the Estonian public broadcaster ETV’s programme Impulss.

Anette, 24, studied maritime logistics at the Estonian Maritime Academy after deciding against an arts degree because she saw uncertain career prospects in an artist’s life. But Russia-related transit was shut down during her first year of university after the full-scale war in Ukraine began, prompting her to wonder whether she should have changed courses.

She has since tried several jobs in maritime and logistics, but has not found a suitable role. Anette said logistics work paid less than she had expected, could require being available around the clock, and in some jobs involved frequent trips around the port. She also described an unpleasant experience with a manager who, she said, treated female staff badly.

Martin, 22, has a bachelor’s degree in animal husbandry from the Estonian University of Life Sciences and hopes to become a farm manager responsible for animal welfare, living conditions and production quality. So far, however, he has found work only as a farm attendant, a job that does not require a university degree or special training.

Martin said he worked for two months as an attendant at Tallegg over the summer. Although colleagues and the farm manager were pleased with his work, he said he was told there would be no further job offer because he lacked experience in the field.

Anette, meanwhile, continued her studies with a master’s programme in maritime digitalisation, which she thought would improve her future prospects. Her studies are nearly complete, with only her thesis remaining. She is currently on academic leave for health reasons and said she does not want to rush the final step.