Like everything in life, college comes to an end and adult life begins. The transition from college life to being a member of the workforce is normally jarring but given the circumstances of the last year, recent graduates face an exceptional obstacle. In a world that has transitioned to mostly remote and companies have shrunk their workforce, there are definitely a few challenges. From internal struggles and moments of self-doubt to the outside world being shaken up, three graduates are juggling their lives while trying to create a new one. These three soon-to-be graduates are finding little moments of joy and trying to stay optimistic, regardless of the circumstances.
Mikayla
For Mikayla, graduation looks a little unique. Having graduated high school at 17 and now college at 21, she said, “I still feel really weird about being a ‘real adult’ because I still feel like a kid sometimes.”
Like many people, Mikayla struggles with losing the structure of school. Mikayla explained, “It feels like so much of my worth and life has been centered around education and my grades and so knowing I’m transitioning into a period where that no longer is super relevant is intimidating.” Additionally, Mikayla is coming into the fold already struggling with anxiety, like many other students. She noted, “I deal with anxiety in the first place and so trying to navigate the future and actual adulthood after being in school for so long is terrifying.”
For the future, Mikayla wants to pursue a graduate degree in Library Sciences. COVID has absolutely changed her plans, but she looks at it from a positive perspective. Mikayla said, “I’ve had a lot of time to think about and question what I want to do with my life and decided to take a semester off after graduation before starting grad school in order to transition a bit easier.”
Although it’s difficult to be vulnerable about this subject, Mikayla finds solace in being vulnerable and open about her experiences with those around her. Her self-care advice is this: “Take naps. But seriously, I try to talk to people around me. Whether it’s my mom or my boyfriend or one of my friends, I feel a lot better if I don’t bottle up my stress. Even if I just cry about something going on that’s small but stressing me out, I feel a lot better getting it off my chest.”
Mikayla has some wisdom to impart on anyone worried about graduation or moving up in college, stating, “Don’t stretch yourself too thin. College is stressful and I definitely recommend getting involved with stuff that interests you, and even getting a job if you feel you have time (If it’s necessary for you to have a job, this doesn’t apply.) but don’t try to take on too many things—especially with a full course load. Also, don’t be afraid to get help. College is a lot different than high school and there’s no shame in needing help transitioning. Getting academic help, mental help or even something like cooking help is really beneficial in the long run.” Being vulnerable and reaching out for help are two things that may seem intimidating, but like Mikayla, we could all stand to benefit from it.
Morgan
Morgan truly echoes the sentiment of being a pandemic graduate. Morgan said, “Graduating college is one thing, but graduating during a pandemic is another.”
For Morgan, COVID-19 has indefinitely put her plans on hold. She said, “Most of the positions I want to pursue after graduation are internationally based, and I can’t travel right now due to travel restrictions.” Additionally, Morgan’s current position as a U.S. House of Representatives intern has been deeply affected by COVID. Morgan explained, “My internship with the U.S. House right now would have been in person, but due to COVID, it has to be virtual. As a result of that, I have not been able to make as many connections to experience the actual life of someone who works on Capitol Hill.”
Although Morgan has to face these challenges, she has a pretty cool self-care routine. Morgan said, “I cuddle with my dog and listen to ‘Real *ss Affirmations’ on Spotify to remind me that I am doing what I can and what I should.” (We should all be listening to “Real *ss Affirmations,” to be honest!)
When asked what advice she’d give a current student, Morgan said, “Everyone says this but, take advantage of every single resource you have. The FSU Career Center is excellent and there are major perks to attending FSU because of its massive alumni base. Try the FSU Shadow Program, take a mentor, email people to ask if you can shadow them for a day or just get coffee, there are so many people willing to help you just have to ask.” Morgan, in her infinite wisdom, closed out our conversation with this gem: “The world is just jacked right now and everyone feels like I do, so we should all stop stressing and just let things work out on their own.”
Brooke
For Brooke, mindfulness is key to staying afloat in the face of an uncertain future. Brooke said, “In high school, my teacher taught us a method called the Mindful Minute. You sit with yourself and take in three deep breaths while being quiet, eyes closed for a full minute. It’s incredible how one little exercise can instantly calm your nerves.”
Aside from the Mindful Minute, Brooke looks to the future while taking notes from the past. She explained, “Being in that transition period is weird because, in a sense, I feel like I’ve already had to handle a lot the real world has thrown toward me, but I know I’m still far away from feeling like a grown-up. I just try to reassure myself that I can work through whatever is to come.”
Although COVID has thrown everyone’s plans into a tizzy, Brooke credits her hard work and journey thus far as her principal motivation to keep going. Brooke said, “With the pandemic, our current reality is definitely fragile and unpredictable. It’s changed my plans for internships and I feel a bit sad thinking about online graduation, but it still doesn’t change the amount of hard work it’s taken me to get to this point and that’s something I hold on to as motivation.”
Brooke has simple but impactful advice for anyone struggling, stating, “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. People are simply human and sometimes things are awkward or uncomfortable. We have a hard time when things don’t go smoothly. However, that fear of not being perfect really holds you back because what does perfect even mean? It’s just a concept. Be yourself and put yourself out there.” I can definitely co-sign this sentiment.
All in all, transitioning between two periods of life comes with difficulties. It’s important to take a step back and give yourself a break and a breath of fresh air. Our current reality is topsy-turvy and there isn’t one right way to reach your goals. Take care of yourself internally and externally, and you will absolutely be okay. I want to leave everyone with a quote that my favorite TikTok star @itsmetinx has drilled into my head: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” We’re all souls on unique adventures, and there’s no right way to handle graduation or facing the real world. Your path is as special as you.
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