Graduation is coming up and you are still unsure of what your next move is. That’s normal. Don’t worry, you are not alone if you are feeling confused, stressed, and worried about your plans for after graduation. There are several options; enroll in a graduate program, taking some time off for yourself, moving away or moving back in with your parents, getting a part-time job, or going straight full-time for a job in your field. Whatever you choose, make sure it is the best decision for yourself, do not allow anyone else to make the decision for you because only you know what you are ready for. Also, do not let the decision that your friend made on attending grad school, force you to feel like you have to continue your education as well. Honestly, everybody has a different path and moves at a different pace; never compare yourself to another person.
Most likely, if you are unsure about grad school, or going back and forth with yourself about it, you are not ready for it. Grad school is serious and is very different from the years you spent obtaining your undergraduate degree. Less partying, multiply the workload by three; overall less fun and more business. I never had the desire to go to grad school, until I completed my internship. I always told my academic advisor, my family, and my friends that grad school was useless for me, so I was not going to go. It was not until I interned in Washington, D.C., began hearing different guest speakers discuss grad school, on top of getting to visit some of the most popular schools, that I decided that grad school was a step that I wanted to make. Although, I knew I would not rush it. If you decide to go to grad school and further your education; you should feel secure about the decision, have the correct mindset, and know what you want out of it. For myself, as I will be graduating college in 11 days; I can say that I am taking a “break” before going to graduate school. I accepted a job offer into a 12-month program doing what I love. If I enjoy my “dream job” I can continue and do a second year, or if I dislike it I can move on and find a different position, or go to graduate school. I want to learn more about myself, my passion, and the world around me before I attend grad school. So, do not rush the process. Grad school will always be there for us! Even when we are in our late 40s. Remember, it’s a marathon not a sprint. Good luck!
(Photo by Animesh Basnet on Unsplash)