You’ve loaded up the car one last time. You’ve registered for classes one last time. Now you just have to push through one more semester of work so you can walk across that stage and get your degree. Three years have led up to this point and you’re finally in the homestretch. Congratulations on making it to the spring semester of your senior year. Now, what?
If you aren’t planning on going to graduate school after completing your undergrad (and if you are, go you!), you are probably looking for a job… and not a typical minimum-wage job either. A real, big-person job preferably in the field you got your degree in. This is an exciting time, but also a nerve-wracking one. It makes sense to be filled with worries about the future. If it’s really bothering you, take a step back and evaluate your situation. Think of the big picture for a second instead of the one transition window you’re currently riding full-speed into.
By the time you’ve reached your last semester in college, you are probably somewhat versed in the lingo of adulthood, whether it’s apartment living, buying and cooking your own food, money management, or time management. If you aren’t, don’t sweat it, but you should probably know how to do at least one of those things. Point is, if you’re stressing about moving into the big world and leaving the bubble of school, chances are you’re way more prepared than you think you are. And guess what? Even if you’re not, there are other options.
So, what happens when you graduate? Some people might move to their dream city right away and start their dream job. But, to be real, almost nobody really does that. And that’s okay. Life takes time and patience. Don’t freak out if your dream employer doesn’t call you back. Maybe finances aren’t what you wish they were and you need to crash with your parents for some time. That’s okay. Maybe you need to go to a city that wasn’t even on your map when you were job searching. That’s okay! Sometimes, this period in life is a lesson in patience and persistence, the tried-and-true duo of traits you can have. And if your degree doesn’t land you a job in the field right away? Don’t sweat it. There are many doors with sweet opportunities behind them, and they’re not all in the same field as yours. Keeping your mind open with a sweet touch of persistence is the best thing you can do for yourself.
Most of all, don’t forget about friends. Moving to a new city out of college can be really frightening, especially if you don’t know anybody there and are looking to make a name for yourself. Keep in touch with those who helped you in the past and want to see you move forwards. It’s okay to lean on others. Check on people and see how they’re doing. Don’t be afraid to reach out just because school is over. You might find yourself needing some people now more than you ever did before in college.
Take a deep breath. You will get a job. You will get a roof over your head. You will be able to eat good food and have fun nights with friends. For now, savor the end of your college career. Reflect on everything you’ve accomplished at school, and your personal growth in particular. Who did you enter college as, and who are you leaving as? How might you define yourself? Who are your friends now, compared to when you were a freshman? Be proud of yourself.
You’re almost there, and so many people are behind you. Get behind yourself and push to the finish!
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