Struggling with employment and life after uni

I need to rant about my frustrations. I just graduated with a degree in forensic science and criminal investigation but can't apply for jobs in my field because I don't have a driver’s license. It's holding me back and making me feel really low. I've tried to pass the test multiple times since 2021 but keep messing up due to nerves. I’ve convinced myself I'll never pass, and it's ruining my motivation because I can’t do anything. I have to rely on lifts all the time I have no independence and it makes me feel like a burden to everybody.While at uni, I had a part-time job, and I still work there at a different location. After moving in with my boyfriend and his family, I started applying for jobs in my degree field, but they all require a full UK license, so I never hear back. My part-time job cut everyone’s hours, so I’m earning £500 a month, paying my phone bill, £200 for rent, and have no money left for driving lessons or another test. I've been applying for new jobs, including retail and hospitality, just to get my hours up, because my current job has cut everyone’s hours and they won’t increase my contracted hours either. I keep getting rejected for almost everything because I can't reliably commute or I just don’t hear back after an interview. I'm in a vicious cycle and £2600 in debt with my student overdraft. I paid back about a grand while at uni, but had to spend it again due to my low wage. I know the solution is to find a better-paying job, pass my driving test, and pay off my overdraft, but it’s not working for me. It’s embarrassing because my family and friends have good jobs and money, and I have neither. My boyfriend is ready to save for a house deposit, and I can’t contribute at all.

Reply 1

Clearing and Applications Advisor

is your boyfriends family's house particularly bad for public transport?
You should be able to get a full time job even if it's not in the exact type of work you want but if your current home is making that impossible because of transport issues then that has to be top priority. Even if you passed your driving test tomorrow you have too much debt and too low income to fund buying and insuring a car so that doesn't seem like the best short term priority.

Are there any other living arrangements that you and your boyfriend could find that would be better for public transport (or even cycling/walking to employers)?

Your university careers service might be able to help with vacancies for broader full time jobs that might suit you.

Reply 2

sophieee789

This was a long time ago but I'll write a response anyway, if anyone is reading:
I had the same situation as you. Graduated in 2023 with good grades, lots of extra-curriculars, but living in a remote area meant I couldn't get to any jobs, or have a full time job whilst having driving lessons. I understand the vicious cycle thing. It took me ages as well. Have you tried automatic?
Or doing the test regardless in your own car/someone else's that you're insured on?
I feel like people will make you nervous, but the most important thing is to BE SAFE. The rules you will understand better as time goes on and you get more experience.
Set yourself some goals and book a driving test so you have something to work towards