With universities across the globe forced to shut their campuses amid the pandemic, many students are learning remotely. For those finishing their studies this year, it can also mean attending a virtual graduation ceremony. But what happens to graduates once the university learning experience is over? Normally, those ending their higher education would now be wrapping up their assignments, polishing their CV and meeting potential employers at career fairs. But with the global jobs market in jeopardy amid Covid-19, it makes applying for your first position more challenging than ever. As the effect of the global financial crisis 2008-2009 illustrated, moving from university into a career in the middle of an economic downturn can have long-term consequences on a graduate’s employability and lead to lower incomes and savings rates down the line.

So how damaging could Covid-19 be to the careers of graduates trying to enter the workforce now? How can they look for work in this climate? How do they negotiate salaries and should they ditch starting their career now and continue with their studies until this all blows over?

Host Alice Haine, the personal finance editor of The National, is joined by Fiona McKenzie, head of Carfax Education UAE, an education consultancy providing bespoke support for students looking to access opportunities in schools and universities across the globe.