As a senior in college, you are constantly asked all year long, "What are you planning to do after graduation?" Other questions like, "Oh, did you get a job yet?" or "Have you thought about grad school?" also arise. The reality of it is, sometimes there is no plan, no job and no real steady idea of what the months immediately falling after graduation have in store. All of your friends are making Facebook posts about a huge job offer or their acceptance into a great graduate program. While you are incredibly happy for them, the hope that you can post your own good news sits in the back of your mind.
This can be one of the most discouraging, stressful and scariest times of your life. However, depending how you look at it, it can also be one of the most exciting times with the window of opportunity completely open. There is so much you can do now that you have achieved a college degree and have the freedom and independence of making your own decisions.
This is a time in life to look forward to rather than fear, which is why it is OK to have no plan immediately after college.
1. You get a break.
You finally get a breather and don't have to worry about exams or what's in your calendar for the upcoming week. It is much deserved after spending the past 16-17years in school/tears.
2. You can use this time to really prepare for prospective employers.
Amidst all your classes, extracurriculars and when finals come around, finding time to focus on job applications and your resume is nearly impossible. Now, you have more free time to really dedicate yourself to finding a good job that is good for you.
3. You can use this time to travel.
For many, the thought of traveling and seeing the world is invigorating. When you're young and independent, it is the best time to do it. Right after college, take that graduation gift cash and buy a plane ticket to anywhere to want. Jump at this opportunity while you still can.
4. You can learn about being a real adult before actually becoming one.
Let's all be honest, all of our parents still do our taxes, pay the majority of our bills and dish out cash when we don't have enough for groceries or to do our laundry. This is the perfect time to really figure out what the hell we are supposed to be doing, especially once those student loan bills start rollin' in.
5. You have a chance to get a fun job for a while.
What's the harm in taking a cool job on a boardwalk or at your favorite amusement park? You will probably be happier initially and definitely make more money, especially if you make a lot in tips. Throw in a decent vacation on top of that, definitely worth not having that full-time job yet.
6. You can have your last "hoorah" after college.
Those college partying days have been some of the best of your life. It is a nice thought that you can have a bit more time to go out on a Thursday night without the worry of class or work early the next morning. You can get that last little bit of carelessness out of your system before fully throwing yourself into the work force.Finally, you are still a strong and successful person, despite the fact that you may not have landed that dream job yet,
Finding a job that is the right for you sometimes takes more time for some than others. Certain fields are more competitive while others are desperate to hire more people. There are so many factors that play a role in the hiring process and a resume, is not the end all-be-all of your future. You have all your life to work hard and make a living. If you don't start that right after college, it is a blessing in some sort of way. You have a little extra time to live on your own terms and that is OK.Don't stress over not landing that job just yet. You had the capability to earn a degree and make it through four or more years of college, you are more than capable of being hired somewhere you love, doing what you love. It just may take some time.
