In less than 365 days, I will soon become a college graduate. Although the idea of graduating college has scared me for quite some time, I've finally gotten a hold of my thoughts. The thought of graduating college is a very surreal felling. I was sitting at graduation a couple of weeks ago and then it finally hit me; that I was going to be dressed with the cap and gown sitting next to my best friends as we walk across the stage to receive our diplomas.
When I first started college, I had never even thought of being a senior in college. The idea of that just seemed so far away. But here I am, a senior in college and I'm wondering where all the time went? It's crazy to think that soon I will become an alumnus to my Alma mater. The very place that I have met so many incredible people who I am happy to call my best friends The place that I found my passion and have gained so much experience inside and outside of the classroom. The place that I can use as a springboard into the adult world with the knowledge that I have gained. I know that I can always look back at this place for words of wisdom and support.
Graduating college is honestly so scary to think about but I encourage everyone reading this article to not wait until the last minute to think about life after graduation. Don't wait until your last semester of college to be looking for jobs. Start looking at the beginning of your senior year. Talk to your parents, friends, and family about where you might be living after you graduate. Don't wait until April to find an apartment, look as soon as you are able to. Look at your spending habits as well. Spending obscene amounts of money on alcohol isn't such a good idea as you will soon not have the luxury of having a meal plan and all of your meals prepared for you. Eating Ramen after you graduate also isn't the way to live; learn to live off of a budget. Those college loans don't pay themselves back.
I know that life is uncertain so it is a good idea to think of alternate plans for after graduation. Have a backup job lined up in case the one you have your heart set on falls through. Think of a backup housing situation in case your can't get the apartment of your dreams right away. Moving back in with Mom and Dad might not be what your heart is set on doing but it is a start. Don't wait until your last semester of college to being getting your life together.
Even thought your college career might be ending, that doesn't mean that your hopes and dreams die out too. Think of all of the fun you can have once you graduate. No more being bogged down with papers and assignments; you're free! Unless you chose to go into a masters program right after you graduate. But whatever path you chose to go into whether it be straight into a career or going back for another degree; think about the plan you will take to get there. Don't just sit and wait for things to fall into place; make them fall into the right places.
