It's the last semester of your senior year of college. You're excited, right? You can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. No more going to class, staying up till the wee morning hours studying or dealing with crazy professors. It's time to enter the magical world of adulthood that everyone seems to gush over.
This is where I hit the brakes. Some may believe that graduating college leads to promises of glamor and enchantment, but I beg to differ. Unless you are loan-free, have a job lined up and have money in the bank, the looming graduation date might actually terrify you.
I have spent many days and nights fretting over what I am going to do once I graduate. Now that there is only two months left until the big day, the stress levels seem to get higher and higher. What if I can't find a job? What if I can't afford to move? What if I'm not actually good enough for adult things? These questions haunt me day-in and day-out.
I can't be the only graduating college senior who feels this way. So, I have created a guide to help those like myself, prepare for this momentous event in life.
1. Start looking for jobs.
Yes, that seems like a no-brainer, but start seriously looking two to three months before commencement. Have your resume looked over by a professional (your school should have one), scope out what job(s) interest you, and start applying. Do not wait until you have graduated to start the whole process, because loans don't wait.
2. Start saving money.
Most likely, you aren't going to stay in the town where you attend school after graduation. And moving can get expensive. Instead of eating out with your friends every Tuesday night, or going to the movies or bar every single weekend, have a night in. If you're like me, and have a pretty big move once you graduate, then skipping out on an expensive destination spring break trip will help a great deal, too.
3. Don't stress about it.
Everything will work out. It always does. If you are smart, proactive and calm about going into adulthood, it will welcome you with open arms (and maybe after a swift kick to the rear).
Hopefully, this kick-starts your preparation for graduation and lights a fire under you, or at least gives you an idea of what you can do to feel less stressed out. Just know you are not the only one out there burdened with the approaching reality that is adulthood.
