This week’s advice column is going to be a little different, mainly because it is dedicated towards my fellow seniors who are graduating in a couple months. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but -you’re going out into the real world very soon. I know I can’t be the only one freaking out about this, but I have a plan, and you should have a plan too. Below, I’ve listed some tips on how to prepare for graduation soon, because I don’t gatekeep around here.
- Breathe, breathe, breathe
First, you need to breathe. Panicking does not equate to productivity. You have to remember that there are other people on campus who are also in your shoes. You are not alone and you will never be. When you start to think about everything at once, from potential jobs to living situations, all you are doing is stressing yourself out. Try to focus on one thing at a time, and write down some ideas on either a notepad or computer. Even better, use this as an opportunity to visit the Career Center on the second floor of CNU Hall. There are resources available for you to use on campus, you just need to reach out.
- Look for jobs as early as you can
Realistically, no one wants to be looking at jobs while still studying in school, but sometimes looking for jobs as early as you can could help you plan better post graduation. It’s always good to have something under your disposal so you can start earning money after you graduate. For example, I have to start paying off student loans once I graduate, so making sure I secure a job is very important to me.
- Figure out what your living situation will look like
Once you figure out your job situation, your living situation will bend around that. Usually when you secure a job, you would have to take into account traffic, morning commutes, etc. Not to mention, not everyone has the same budget. Some people might need to purchase a small apartment before they can move into a house. Others may prefer to save money by living at home. Either way, finding a job and housing usually go hand and hand with one another.
- Don’t compare your plans to others
I made this mistake very early on into my senior year. I started to compare my post-graduation plans with others. Don’t do this. Everyone is carefully articulating and planning their own career path, of course not everyone’s plan is going to be the same. Create a path you feel is right for you and don’t worry about your plans not being as ‘cool’ or ‘cohesive’ as someone else’s. You are on your own path for a reason, pave that path for yourself.
I hope these tips help when physically and mentally preparing for graduation in the coming months. While this can be both an exciting and scary time, just remember that the universe has a plan for you and while that plan might not work out quite right in the beginning, it will become much better and structured with time.
