What can you do with a physics degree, why do so few job description look for physicists, and what does professional life actually look like after graduation? This plenary session is part of a series organised by Young Minds in collaboration with the Working Group on Equal Opportunities in Physics (AK Chancengleichheit Physik). It brings together physicists who have taken very different paths after their studies: from research, startups and established industry.

Each panellist will talk briefly about their own career trajectory and how their physics education shaped it, followed by a Q&A moderated by previous recipients of the OePG Studierendenpreis. Whether you are still in the midst of your studies, about to finish them, or already transitioning to life after university, this session will provide valuable insights across the range of opportunities physicists have after graduating, but also what the important skills are that you learn in your studies (also besides the curriculum) to help you succeed after your degree. Students and early career researchers are especially encouraged to participate and bring their questions, but we cordially invite  all attendees of the annual meeting to join the discussion.