Design your future: plan, prototype and pursue your path

In a world where career paths are no longer linear, planning your future means staying adaptable, thinking creatively, and discovering what truly matters to you. That’s where the University of Sydney's OLES2617: Design Your Future comes into play. This unique Open Learning Environment (OLE) unit guides students from all disciplines through the complexities of career planning using a combination of design thinking, industry insights, and self-reflection.

Drawing inspiration from Stanford University's renowned "Design Your Life" course, OLES2617 encourages students to develop a personalised career and life plan. It prompts you to ask: How can I design a future that aligns with my values and aspirations? Whether you have a clear career path in mind or are still exploring your options, this unit offers a flexible and engaging way to shape your journey, something that many students look for in their university experience, but don’t always find.

Jack Flanagan, a Business student who completed the unit in Semester 1, reflected,

Blending theory with real-world insight

OLES2617 integrates practical learning experiences that connect students with faculty advisors, Sydney Careers, industry professionals, alumni, and student ambassadors. This interdisciplinary approach ensures students gain a well-rounded understanding of career design, blending academic insights with hands-on applications.

One of the unit's standout experiences is the Muse ‘n’ Mingle event, held in Week 2. This in-person gathering brings together diverse voices, including industry leaders like Rose Herceg, President of WPP AUNZ, who stated, "This kind of thinking is critical."

Through storytelling and panel discussions, students delve into different career paths and life choices, drawing inspiration from professionals who have carved unique journeys.

Feedback from past students highlights the impact: 95% found the event enriched with examples of career-building. Students have also shared that the "Muse ‘n’ Mingle" event was one of the most valuable experiences in their university career, inspiring them to take the 'Design Your Future' concept seriously.  

Hands-on learning that makes a difference

OLES2617 is designed to be more than just lectures and readings. The unit emphasises experiential learning, where students have the chance to prototype, test, and refine their ideas. This hands-on approach is strengthened by collaboration with peers and immediate feedback from industry experts. As students work through creative problem-solving activities, they learn to set goals, make informed decisions, and take tangible steps toward their envisioned futures.

Daphne, a Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise Physiology) student, shared how the unit pushed her to step out of her comfort zone and embrace new opportunities:

"These opportunities I would not have taken, and connections I would not have made, if it weren't for DYF's emphasis on the importance of networking and that the pathways to career and personal development are active processes. The lessons I learned helped me step out of my introverted nature, say ‘yes’ to opportunities, and realise that the more I engage, the more doors open."

With over 850 students enrolled in its first year, OLES2617 fills a crucial need - nearly 50% of students begin their studies without a clear idea of how their degree aligns with their career ambitions. This unit bridges that gap by giving students the tools to create a career path tailored to their strengths and aspirations.

Endorsements from industry and real outcomes

The inaugural cohort's feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Developed collaboratively by the Education - Enterprise & Engagement team and the School of Psychology, this unit goes beyond informing - it inspires.

Sally-Anne Avery, a Birpai woman and representative from Youth Justice NSW, shared, "It was a privilege to yarn about real-life issues in careers."

These responses show that when students engage in meaningful, interdisciplinary experiences, they can better visualise their career paths and feel empowered to pursue them with confidence. This approach aligns with the Syndey in 2032 Strategy broader vision to create transformative educational experiences that prepare students for success in an ever-evolving world.