I hate to say it, but the unspeakable “g-word," AKA "graduation," is slowly approaching. Personally, there were times when I was convinced that graduation would never come, and unfortunately, these past four years have completely flown by. I'm still in denial that I have so few days left on campus, but I cannot wait for the continuous stream of life questions to end. Like I get it, I'm a senior and need to figure my life out, but there's no need to constantly remind me that “the best years of my life" are almost over.
You may too be asked many of these questions since the g-word is looming, but per experience, I have some advice when it comes to answering them.
What are you doing after graduation?
Probably the first question anyone who knows you're graduating will ask you, and it is one- hundred percent okay to say that you don't know.
Even so, this question can lead to…
Do you have a job lined up?
Pretty self-explanatory, because it'll result in a yes or no answer. It's also totally fine if you don't have one and are still looking. Even some adults with years of work experience have trouble finding jobs, so don't sweat it. But if you answer is yes, get ready for even more questions such as: Which company are you working for? When do you start? Are you excited?!
Are you going to graduate school?
You might be taking a year off, or even still be unsure, and that's okay too. I think the fact that you managed to graduate with a bachelor's degree is something to be proud of.
Are you ready to graduate?
Absolutely not, and being in the real world sorta terrifies me. I now have to start thinking about real-person things like health insurance, 401K's and keeping track of my birth certificate when I can't even put sunscreen on myself without getting severely burned.
Are you dating someone?
A question that haunts many college kids at family reunions and gatherings. When Aunt Sally tries to set you up with her best friend's son at graduation, it's okay to decline. Personally, I think it's a great idea to use this new beginning to figure out what you want in the future before getting someone else involved.
Where are you living after graduation?
You may be apartment hunting or maybe you've already found a place, but the reality is that if you live close to the city, you'll find that many people live at home as they begin their careers. Living at home is a great way to save money, since you won't have to pay for housing or groceries (thanks, Mom and Dad), and then you can put your paycheck towards other things, such as trips to visit friends.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Honestly, I can barely decide what I'm having for breakfast, so I'm definitely not looking that far ahead. The next few months (even years) are going to be full of changes and transitions, and I have no idea what will be thrown my way.
What advice would you give to someone entering college?
Take every opportunity you get and never be afraid to try something at least once. College is about finding yourself and figuring out your passions, and by taking a risk now and then, you may discover some hidden talents. I know that I wouldn't be the person I am today without all of the crazy, good and bad experiences I have had throughout my college career.
You know, it's only downhill from here, right?
I refuse to believe this. Yeah, I know that a lot of things will change once I officially graduate, but things have been changing since we got to college. We went from over-excited freshmen to (somewhat) mature seniors in a matter of four years, so maybe another change is exactly what we need to keep our lives interesting.
Did you enjoy your time at the University of Illinois?
Hell yes, and I wouldn't change a thing.
