So, you’re about to graduate college. Congratulations! Get ready to consistently hear questions like: “What are you planning on doing now?” and “Do you have anything lined up yet?” These questions can be exciting, but at the same time, very stressful.
It’s important to realize college is not for everyone. Give yourself some credit for finishing, no matter how long it took you, and understand that this is a major accomplishment.
Yes, plans after college are relieving, but even if you don’t know your plans, the thought that you still have endless opportunities about to come your way can be exciting, too.
A piece of advice to keep in mind while you’re approaching this new chapter in your life would be; don’t compare yourself to your friends or peers. Some will already have job acceptances, others will want to continue through grad school, and many will be looking for a job even months after they earn their degree.
Wherever you may be, whether it’s any of these examples or something different, know that it’s okay to work at your own pace and figure things out on your own terms.
Just because you got into college, declared a major, and graduated with a degree does not mean you have yourself and your future figured out. Believe it or not, there are people in their 40’s and 50’s who are just figuring out what they want to do. “Yes, I love my job and I’m good at it, but I’ve always been interested in helping with animals. I just recently started my internship at a local animal hospital as a veterinary assistant and will hopefully be able to make this my full-time job,” said Paige Shoemaker, a 45-year-old waitress.
You have accomplished a major life experience. Your world may no longer consist of projects, classrooms, and classmates. It will be the real world. But always remember, you have what it takes to accomplish even more than just your college degree. This is your journey, and whatever your plans may be after you walk with your cap and gown will be perfectly okay.