When advising students about studying in Europe, conversations often begin with the destination and programme. However, one of the more important questions to raise is what those studies could help them prepare for in the years ahead. 

The European job market is changing as businesses adopt new technologies, rethink sustainability and operate across increasingly international teams. For students planning their education in Europe, choosing a programme that develops relevant and transferable skills can therefore be an important part of the decision. 

Which skills should students develop? 

When discussing career skills for international students, it can be useful to look beyond specific job titles. Employers increasingly value a combination of technical knowledge, business understanding and interpersonal capabilities. 

Agents can encourage students to consider programmes that help develop areas such as: 

• Analytical thinking: Understanding information, identifying patterns and making informed decisions.  

• Digital literacy: Becoming comfortable with digital tools and technology-driven workplaces.  

• Problem-solving: Applying knowledge to unfamiliar business and workplace challenges.  

• Communication: Presenting ideas clearly and working effectively with different teams.  

• Leadership: Taking responsibility, collaborating with others and contributing to organisational goals.  

• Adaptability: Responding constructively as technologies, industries and job requirements change.  

These capabilities can remain relevant even when a student's specific career plans change. 

Helping students think beyond their first job 

An important part of advising international students is helping them avoid choosing a programme solely because of its first potential job title. Career paths can evolve considerably after graduation, particularly as new roles emerge and existing professions change. 

For students considering Future Careers in Europe, programmes that combine subject knowledge with transferable skills may provide a broader foundation for professional development. 

The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 estimates that 170 million new jobs could be created globally by 2030, while 92 million roles could be displaced. It also projects that around 39% of workers' existing skill sets could be transformed or become outdated during the same period. 

For agents, these figures provide useful context when discussing why adaptability and continuous learning matter alongside a student's chosen field. 

For a closer look at how industry changes can influence study and career decisions, agents can also refer students to this guide on career choices. 

How Malta can fit into the conversation 

When students are comparing options for Study in Europe, Malta can offer a combination of an English-speaking environment, European exposure and a relatively compact setting. Its growing business and digital sectors also provide context for students interested in developing skills relevant to modern workplaces. 

GBS Malta offers career-focused programmes across areas including business, management, information technology and health and social care. These programmes can help students develop academic knowledge alongside practical and transferable capabilities that may support different career directions. 

For agents, the conversation can therefore move beyond simply asking where a student wants to study. It can focus on what skills they want to develop, what kind of professional environment they hope to enter and how their chosen programme can support that journey. 

Help your student make an informed choice about their future in Europe with GBS Malta. Enquire now at [email protected].