As I approach graduation this December, I can’t help but think about what the future might hold. Looking back on my undergraduate career, I am wowed by how quickly the time has passed. And now that it’s all about to be said and done, and I’ll be on my way to a new chapter in my life, I can’t help but wonder...
1. Did I choose the right major?
The past few semesters of my undergrad education, I’ve started wondering if I chose a major that will enable me to do something that will challenge me, fulfill my interests, and earn me enough money to survive. If this is how you’re feeling right now, I’m with you, and you’re not alone.
It’s important to know that your degree shouldn’t restrict you from pursuing professions that aren’t necessarily related to your major.
2. Am I ready to work full-time?
Though college is pretty much a 24/7 job, us college students have still had extensive winter and summer breaks for several consecutive years. Working full-time is the real deal and can definitely be intimidating.
Am I really ready to take on a full-time job and potentially work 50+ hours per week with very little paid vacation time? Sheesh! Thinking about moving to Norway for a shorter work day…
3. Did I take college for granted?
Though I can’t deny that college has given me some of the most amazing opportunities for personal growth, I can’t help but wonder if I took the whole thing for granted.
I do not regret taking my education as seriously as I did, but I certainly didn’t do the whole party scene, and I’m starting to wonder if I should have.
4. Will I stay in touch with my college friends?
I’ve already seen a dramatic decrease in my communication with lots of my college friends, both within the US and abroad, who have already graduated. It saddens me to think that it might be years before I even see them again. But I guess that when life happens, we have to see it coming.
But remember, the phone works both ways. In fact, thinking about reaching out to a few of my friends right now.
5. Will I be able to find a job?
Not everyone is lucky enough to graduate college already having a job lined up.
And if we’re not struggling to find an entry-level position, there is also the concern about whether we are taking a position that makes us happy. I think this is very common amongst millennials in particular.
Actually, that is my biggest concern of all. I am not so much worried about finding a position, but rather, finding a position that I like and that brings me happiness.
Even with all of the fears that come with graduating, just remember that many of us are in the same boat and that as long as you work hard, push yourself, and do not settle, you will eventually land your dream position.
Need help with the job search? You can search for jobs on LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Indeed.