Get coaching from a study and career counselor

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Ziza Madani: Are you looking for guidance in choosing the right studies and profession? Then you should reach out to a study and career counsellor, also known as a "SYV", which is short for studie- och yrkesvägledare. SYV – someone who assists others in finding their ideal path. When you have questions or concerns about studies and professions, a SYV is there to offer support and advice. They help you shape your future according to your aspirations.

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Ziza: Welcome to our studio here at Arbetsförmedlingen. This is the New in Sweden podcast, where we provide helpful tips and advice on job hunting and employment opportunities in Sweden. Today, we have an exciting topic lined up for you: Insights from a SYV – a study and career counsellor. I'm Ziza Madani, and I'm joined here in the studio by my colleague Pär Axelsson, who also works at Arbetsförmedlingen, the Swedish Public Employment Service. Let's dive into today's discussion.

Ziza: Hey Pär, it feels great to be back on the airwaves.

Pär Axelsson: Absolutely, Ziza. We’re back in action.

Ziza: And as always, we have a lot of interesting stuff to cover.

Pär: Speaking of which, I heard you had an interview with a study and career counsellor. Sounds intriguing. Care to share the details?

Ziza: Absolutely, I had the opportunity to ask some questions to Heléne, a SYV working in the municipality Upplands Väsby. But before we get into that, let's briefly explain what a SYV counsellor does.

Pär: So, what exactly does a study and career counsellor do?

Ziza: Well, a study and career counsellor are guides to help you find the right education and career path. They provide information about different professions and educational opportunities, assist in making the right choices, and offer advice on how to achieve your goals. And guess what? They'll even help you find financial support for your education. Now, that’s pretty neat, isn’t it? Pär: That sounds intriguing. What else can we ask a study and career counsellor?

Ziza: As a new student in Sweden or an adult learner, you can ask all kinds of questions to a study and career counsellor. For example, "What courses are available for adults?” “How do you apply for an education?” “What are the entry requirements for starting an education?” “How do you access support during your studies?” “How do you validate your previous knowledge and experience?” “How do you send your school grades from your home country for assessment?" Pär: Assessment of school grades? How does that work?

Ziza: When we talk about the assessment of foreign school grades, it means that the Swedish Council for Higher Education, UHR, compares your grades from another country with the Swedish grading system. This process helps employers and educational institutions in Sweden determine if your foreign grades meet their requirements. UHR also provides a service on their website where you can get an evaluation of your education and find out how it corresponds to the Swedish system. Plus, you can apply for a statement from UHR to showcase your educational background.

Pär: Alright. So, what can I do to guide myself?

Ziza: There are several steps you can take. First, identify your interests and what you want for your future career. What are your interests and passions? Figure out what makes your heart sing and what you absolutely don't want to do.

Pär: Got it, Ziza. So, what's the next step on this adventure?

Ziza: Explore the available courses. It's a good idea to attend education fairs where different schools and colleges showcase their programs. And while you're at it, take a peek at the crystal ball of the labour market. See what jobs are hot right now, and which ones that have a bright future.

Pär: Anything else to consider?

Ziza: Absolutely, the third step is to assess if your grades meet the requirements for your desired education. And don't forget to book an appointment with a study- and career counsellor in your area.

Pär: Right. That’s an important step.

Ziza: And before we listen to the interview with Heléne, I want to remind our listeners that they can also reach out to university and college counsellors. You don't have to be a student there and it's completely free.

Pär: OK. So, if I have my appointment with a study counsellor booked, what should I keep in mind before the meeting?

Ziza: Set clear expectations for the meeting. Think about what specific areas you need help with and what goals you want to achieve. Prepare a list of questions you'd like to ask and what you want to learn more about. Bring all relevant documents like your grades and certificates. The study and career counsellor can provide more personalised advice.

Pär: Great tips, Ziza. Now, I believe it's time for us to listen to Heléne Hellmon, a study and career counsellor from the Upplands Väsby area.

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Ziza: Hi Heléne, what is a career counsellor?

Heléne Hellmon: If you are an adult, you can go to your municipality to reach a career counsellor. We give you the advice you need in order to get the right education when you're going for your dream career. We give you the advice you need concerning school and education.

Ziza: When and for what questions should I talk to a study and career counsellor?

Heléne: If you have questions about education. It doesn't matter if you have education from your home country, or if you've come to Sweden without any education. All questions about education and career should be brought to us. We can give you information and guidance in how, when, and where to do it.

Ziza: What are your best tips?

Heléne: My best tips are… First of all, never quit. Never give up. And, of course, the most important thing of all: learn Swedish. If you learn the language, it's so much easier for you to enter the Swedish society. And don't compare yourself to others. Dare to speak Swedish. It doesn't matter if you say something wrong. Practice, practice, speak, and speak.

Ziza: What are the most common mistakes people make when choosing education or looking for a job?

Heléne: I think the most common mistake is when you don't choose based on who you are. You might not know who you are and end up choosing based on others' views. So, find out who you are, what you want, and what your interests are. You find that out with the help of a counsellor. Then we can help you get to the education that suits you the most.

Ziza: How can I improve my chances of getting my dream job?

Heléne: The number one key is education, always education. If you don't have a high school education, come to us so that we can help you, because you will need one.

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Ziza: Pär, you always give great tips to share as well. What are your top tips for those aspiring to build a successful career?

Pär: My best advice would be to stay open to new opportunities, have confidence in yourself, and be prepared to put in hard work. Maintaining a positive attitude and embracing continuous learning is also crucial.

Ziza: Great advice as always, Pär. Now, it's time for us to wrap up. Thank you for tuning in. We will be back in a few weeks. Until then, take care and goodbye.

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Speaker: You have been listening to the New in Sweden podcast by Arbetsförmedlingen. You can find all previous episodes at arbetsformedlingen.se/play. Have you got any questions, tips, or ideas? Please e-mail us at podcast@arbetsformedlingen.se. This episode was produced in the autumn of 2023.

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