Finding Your Footing Post-Graduation
Adulthood. A nine-letter word that often strikes fear into the hearts of soon-to-be graduates. I’m not gonna lie, as one of those people recently, I found it pretty nerve-wracking. I graduated from Boise State University mere months ago and am still trying to get settled.
It’s really not all that surprising. You are leaving people you spent four years of your life with and moving away from the place you have called home. It definitely should not be taken lightly. Whether you are running head first into the workforce or still figuring out what to do next, here are some tips that can provide peace of mind in the midst of the chaos.
Don’t be afraid to take some time for you.
Most college graduates are haunted by two questions: “What are you doing after this?” and “Do you have any sort of plan?” For some, they’ve have had a job lined up for awhile. For others, the thought of graduation can trigger an instant anxiety attack. The most important thing you can do is take time for yourself. This is a HUGE life transition and post-graduation blues is a very real thing. Make sure to take time to understand what you are going through, think through where you want to be, get a massage, spend every moment you can with friends you might be saying goodbye to, and just enjoy the time off!
Take chances
Just because you got your degree in one specific field does not mean that you are tied to it for the rest of your life. Statistically, only 30% of college graduates actually remain in their degree field forever. If you see a job posting for something you could succeed in, or a field you are interested in, take a chance and apply for it. Who knows, you could open an entirely new door to an awesome career.
Save some of your paycheck
It’s never too early to start saving. Your $5-per-day coffee habit adds up, and that jacket you think you can’t live without will probably be on sale in a month. Rent, utilities, gas and groceries are very real (and often very expensive) things. No idea where to even start when it comes to budgeting? Here is a list of great books that can help you work through it!
Don’t compare yourself to others
The worst thing you could probably do at a time like this is to focus on what your peers and previous classmates are doing. Not everyone has it all figured out, and obsessing over people who started working right out of college will only stress you out more. Everyone has different skill sets, experiences and qualities that eventually land jobs. Relax, it will happen eventually!
Remember you are in control
Although it might not feel like it right now, everything is going to fall into place. Adult life doesn’t need to start right away. Don’t settle for a job you think you will despise, but also don’t pass up an opportunity to learn something new. This is YOUR life, make the most out of it while you can.
