life after college graduation essay

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What to Do after Graduation from University

Categories: Graduation Life Goals

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Words: 485 |

Published: Jan 28, 2021

Words: 485 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

A gap year.
Studying a master’s degree in abroad.
Travelling Asian countries after master.
Do an internship for good job.
Getting a job.

Works Cited:

American Association of University Women. (2017). The Simple Truth about the Gender Pay Gap. https://www.aauw.org/resources/research/simple-truth/
Ahmed, L. (1992). Women and Gender in Islam: Historical Roots of a Modern Debate. Yale University Press.
Khan, F. (2019). Hijab and Muslim Women's Dress: Beyond the Headscarf. Routledge.
MeToo. (n.d.). Home. https://metoomvmt.org/
National Sexual Violence Resource Center. (2021). Sexual Harassment Statistics. https://www.nsvrc.org/statistics
United Nations Development Programme. (2019). Gender Inequality Index. http://hdr.undp.org/en/content/gender-inequality-index-gii
United Nations Women. (n.d.). Empowering Women. https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/empowering-women

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21 Things Nobody Tells You When You Graduate College

I have never been invited to give a commencement address at a college. This is disappointing because, for the first time in my life, I own a sports coat that fits and a belt that is not two-sided.

I might be considered too young, as I am only 39, despite the gray hair I’ve acquired that prompted a TSA agent to recently proclaim, “You sure that’s you?” upon seeing my dark-haired driver’s license.

But I have spent 17 years in the workforce. I’ve worked at big companies and small ones. I’ve been promoted and fired. I’ve started my own business. I found and left my dream job. I’ve learned a lot, mostly the wrong way (and would prefer you didn’t). So before you throw your cap in the air — or at least before you stage an Instagram photo of you throwing your cap in the air — allow me to share some things nobody will tell you.

The real world is more fun than grumpy adults have ever told you.

Don’t listen to people in their 40s who act like the best part of your life ends the minute you get your diploma. Is the real world all cotton candy and unicorn rides? No. But sometimes, misery loves company and recruits it too. When you start a new job there will inevitably be a group of people there who don’t like their job and don’t like being an adult. Avoid these people like the plague. They’ve bought into the cultural lie that a “job is just a job” and that you should only work for the weekend. Nonsense. Your job can be meaningful. Your weekdays can matter.

One of your friends will be instantly successful.

They will move to New York or San Francisco and make finding a great job seem easy. They will earn the kind of money that allows you to pay for your own HBOGo pass instead of stealing your parents’. You will hate them at least a little bit because watching their meteoric rise through the filtered window of social media will make you feel like it will never happen for you. Don’t get caught in the trap of comparison.

Your first job might not involve your major in a major way.

That’s only a minor problem though. You have 40 years to reunite your job with your major — or to find out your major may not have major bearing on what you do in life.

Your 20s are lonelier than you think they’ll be.

They’re glamorized in culture, presented as the time of your life. As you bingewatch an entire season of House of Cards on Netflix, you will wonder, Is every other person my age at an amazing party right now that I didn’t know about? They’re not. The truth is, when you leave college, you leave the tightest, largest concentration of people who are your age. Suddenly, you’re scattered around the country and community won’t involve walking out onto the quad. You’ll have to fight for it. That’s not failure, that’s reality. Seek it out. It’s not easy to make friends as an adult but it’s definitely possible if you’ll be brave.

Being an adult comes with an obscene amount of paperwork.

Stay on top of it. Taxes, 401K enrollment, healthcare, apartment contracts… Prepare to be awash in forms that make the Apple iTunes agreement seem pleasant. Don’t ignore the paperwork. I once did and assumed the company I worked for would handle a healthcare issue I had. (I thought I had kidney stones; turns out it was just an ultimate Frisbee injury. What an adult I was!) I threw the paperwork in the trash. I didn’t think anything of it until years later when a collection agency came after me for $81 and my credit was garbage.

Your generation gets unfairly labeled for entitlement. Don’t accept that.

Be humble at work. Show up with questions and a willingness to learn. Don’t act like you know everything already. You don’t, but you know what? Neither do we. People my age and the generations older than I am are a little afraid of you sometimes. We’re scared of the technologies you might know about that we’ve never even heard of. We don’t want to look dumb when we ask, “What is YikYak?” The truth is, we need you, just like you need us.

Pay attention in meetings.

Roughly 93% of your job depends on your ability to do this. You might have been able to tune out in a class of 400 people for an hour but if you try that in a meeting at work, people are going to notice. Don’t text under the table with your phone either. We can see you.

Treat email like it matters.

The other 7% of your job will be managing email. I sure wish it wasn’t because I hate email. (In fact, if you want to give me feedback about this article, just tweet me @JonAcuff instead. Feel free to say, “@JonAcuff your commencement tips are awesome/suck” depending on how you think it’s going.) You have to communicate clearly in your emails. You need to respond to your managers and coworkers quickly. You need to stay out of stupid passive-aggressive traps, like CCing someone’s superior, as a veiled threat. Work your inbox like it’s your job. Because it is.

Take risks.

You don’t have mortgages or kids or other responsibilities yet. Want to go abroad for a year and make a micro-salary teaching English? Want to start a business specializing in a heritage breed of rabbits for hipsters who are tired of suburban chickens already? Go for it. What’s the worst that can happen? You try it for a year, it fails and now you’re 23. You’ve got the rest of your life to play it safe.

Don’t put off your college loans.

The 9,000-pound elephant/gorilla/large scary animal in the corner is your student loans. Sallie Mae doesn’t mess around. Ignoring that you owe money doesn’t make the loans go away. Paying them back does.

Hold your money with an open hand.

Money is a something that pretends to be an Everything. It’s perfectly fine to take a job for a few years just to pay the bills and get by. There’s nobility in that. As your career progresses though, be careful that you don’t chase money at the exclusion of everything else. The amount of cash that will make you perfectly happy is always a “little more.” It’s a never-ending chase that has hollowed out many a 40-year-old.

If you move home, make sure you bring an exit strategy with you.

Pay rent to your parents. Do your own laundry. Buy your own food. Have a deadline for how long you’re going to stay there. Home is comfortable but the distance between comfortable and complacent is surprisingly short. Just because you’re sleeping in the same room you had in middle school doesn’t mean you have to act like an adolescent. And if anyone tries to make you feel ashamed to be living at home with your parents, don’t listen to them.

Don’t spend all your time with idiots and then wonder why it’s hard to meet someone great to date.

If you moved to the desert and then told me the kayaking there is terrible, I would agree. Then I’d ask why you expected sand dunes to offer optimal water sports. “Become the kind of person you want to be with” might be clichéd advice best suited to Hallmark cards, but “Go where the people you want to be like are” isn’t.

Don’t ask to work from home the first week of your new job.

Though more companies are offering that option, it’s still a privilege, not a right.

Jump into the wild west of side jobs.

The days of having the same job for 40 years and then getting a gold watch when you retire are over. Hooray! Your job won’t be limited or defined by geography. The Internet has leveled the playing field. Anyone can connect with anyone. You don’t need a physical storefront or even a physical product to start a business. Your ability to make money will only be limited by your ability to hustle.

Figure out which part of your career needs the most work.

The best careers and biggest adventures are determined by our ability to invest in four distinct things: Relationships, Skills, Character and Hustle.

Don’t become a dinosaur.

Just because your formal education might have ended doesn’t mean you should stop learning. If you don’t keep old skills sharp and continue learning new ones your career will become obsolete.

Don’t burn many bridges.

Every industry is smaller than you think. Do your best to leave as many relationships intact at every job you have. Chances are, you’ll work with a lot of the same people again during your career.

Put your phone down when you’re talking to someone.

Nothing says “this job doesn’t matter to me” like staring into your phone when you’re having a face-to-face conversation with a co-worker. Want a simple way to build the kind of character that will serve you for a lifetime? Ignore your phone instead of the people you’re with.

Remember, it’s all an audition.

I am one of seven people in America who have not seen the musical “Hamilton.” Despite that fact, I do know a thing or two about the audition process. That’s because full-time jobs are getting harder to find as more companies lean on the contract model. They’ll hire you on a part-time basis or even as a full-time contractor, but won’t jump into a long-term relationship without testing you out first. That’s not failure, that’s the future. Treat it like an audition. You might feel like just an understudy stuck backstage, but you’re not. You’re proving to that company you have what it takes to earn a leading role. Don’t have a “full time job or nothing” attitude when it comes to your job search. Today’s job market demands flexibility, hustle and occasionally tap dancing.

Drake was right.

You are going to start at the bottom. That’s OK. Put your pride aside and recognize this as a starting point. This isn’t your final job, it’s your first job. You’ve got one foot on the ladder and now you get to climb it. Give yourself time and be patient.

Welcome to the real world, where people who are almost 40 reference Drake in a thinly veiled attempt to seem hip. I’m not. I need you to teach me about what’s coming next. So does everyone else.

Congratulations on finishing college.

Congratulations on joining the real world.

We’ve been waiting for you.

Jon Acuff is the author of five books, including the recent Do Over : Rescue Monday, Reinvent Your Work & Never Get Stuck, which focuses on building a long-lasting career by investing in a “ Career Savings Account .”

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Life After Graduation

Wendy Hargreaves

Figure 27.1 Life after graduation. Image by Tristan Hargreaves used under CC-BY-NC license .

Introduction

Academic success is achieved through a culmination of many things. This book has shown how managing your adjustment to tertiary study and connecting with resources and supportive people creates a successful beginning to a university experience. The book then discussed the fundamental concepts in English language, maths, technology and working with information that provide a solid knowledge base for study in every field. Next, it elaborated on the essential study skills you need to thrive and how to display them with academic integrity. It then explained how those skills can be applied to the assessment tasks you encounter throughout your studies, ultimately preparing you for a successful future.

This final chapter of Academic Success offers a glimpse into what happens after university study is complete. It begins by discussing the graduation process and the advantages of being active in your alumni. It then explores different directions you may consider, as you step into your future, and outlines some of the challenges you may face. It concludes with a reminder that learning remains part of your lifelong journey.

Stdents wearing graduation gowns and mrtatboards

Different universities conduct their graduation ceremonies at different times of the day and year. If you’re planning to attend, make sure you reserve the date in your calendar well in advance. You may need to hire an academic gown for the occasion. Your university will inform you of all the important information you need to take part in the event.

Middle aged aboriginal man sitting at desk

Once you have graduated, the university automatically regards you as a member of their alumni. This term simply means you are a past student. Being alumni doesn’t require you to do anything but you may find there are some interesting privileges available to you. For example, alumni may have access to resources or special membership rates at the library. You may also receive membership discounts with professional or commercial organisations. There may be opportunities to network with other graduates in the same field, eligibility for alumni awards and invitations to special alumni events. There could even be opportunities to take an active role at your university to encourage or mentor new students. Overall, being an active member of your alumni gives you a way to stay connected with your university and its networks, which may in turn lead to further study or job opportunities. Search your university website for information on your alumni and the opportunities membership provides.

Choosing Your Direction

By the time you graduate you may already have a firm idea of the next direction you would like to take. For those who do not, here are five options to consider.

1. Finding Employment

Many graduates hope to transition quickly from study into a paid job in their field. You may have already started this process using some of the strategies provided in the chapter Preparing for Employment . It can be advantageous to use the momentum of tertiary study and the recency of your training to immediately apply for relevant jobs. Remember however that not all new graduates will walk straight into a job that matches their qualification perfectly. You may be competing against other applicants who have a degree and work experience on their resume. You could consider whether it is advantageous to accept work that is outside your field initially with a view to gradually moving into your preferred profession.

2. Creating Employment

Being entrepreneurial is an alternative to job seeking. Self-employment allows you to tailor-make a job that uses your specific skills. For example, if you have a film and television degree you could develop a business as a free-lance photographer. If you have studied education, you could investigate working privately as a tutor. One advantage of being self-employed is you can control the kind of work you do and when you do it. It can be immensely satisfying.

Running your own business can be exciting but it is not necessarily an easy pathway. Business owners often talk about their long work hours, the difficulty of taking unpaid holidays, considerable amounts of administrative tasks and financial stress. There are also many legal aspects of business management that will require attention. Make sure you are well prepared and well informed. You may find it helpful to enrol in courses designed specifically to teach you the skills needed for running a small business. Government agencies often provide free access to business development resources and to advice through workshops. Overall, make sure you are prepared for the challenges of self-employment before investing in the venture.

3. Taking a Break

Some graduates take the opportunity between earning a degree and committing to full-time work to take a break or a “gap year”. This can be an opportunity to rejuvenate after years of study and to explore other aspects of life and the world. A gap year can be particularly appealing to young graduates with little or no financial or family commitments that impact on their priorities. Traditionally, a gap year has been regarded as a prime opportunity to travel. There may be world or even country specific events including natural disasters, disease or border closures that stop you travelling but hopefully they are short-lived.

While taking a break can be a positive experience, it should be managed carefully to avoid impacting negatively on your future employment opportunities. Make sure you are aware of any time limits placed on converting any newly gained provisional professional registrations from your degree into full registrations. For example, your eligibility for teaching appointments or positions in health services may be compromised if you do not begin practising in your field within a certain time limit. Taking a “gap year” does not need to be a full year. Instead, consider when is the best time to return to the search for employment. Investigate when any provisional registrations may expire and if there are any seasonal fluctuations in demand for employees in your field. Some countries have military service requirements, too, that you might need to fulfil ahead of taking a “gap year”. Keep all these things in mind when you prepare.

4. Further Study

Another direction you may consider is further study. Graduation opens the new world of postgraduate study to you. Postgraduate study offers the chance to extend your knowledge and expertise even further. A range of options exist such as postgraduate certificates, diplomas, masters, professional doctorates and PhDs. Explore the available options on tertiary websites. You may consider changing university if you find an appealing course at another institution or perhaps you are drawn to living in another city, state or overseas. Postgraduate study is also a popular option for those who have had several years in the workforce. It can be enjoyable to return to the role of student and to delve deeper into your field of interest.

5. Life Events

There will likely come a time when life events play a part in your journey, whether it is by choice or not. Parenting children, personal health concerns and becoming a carer for an impaired or elderly person may steer you away from the pathways of work, travel and study. For some, the new direction is welcome, while for others it can be a frustrating change. Whether life events are planned or unplanned, welcome or not, you may find it helpful to regard them as a season – they will pass. The doors to a career, travel or further study may not be closed permanently. The good news is that your university degree is yours for life. When circumstances allow, you will likely be able to re-open those doors and progress in the direction you desire.

Flexible Options

There is a lot of flexibility in the five directions discussed above. You may experience all of these alternatives at different times in your life. The other possibility is pursuing two or more options simultaneously. For example, a full-time worker may benefit from undertaking some part-time postgraduate study at night to advance their career opportunities. Parents of young children may opt to balance family responsibilities with part-time work to generate some income and stay active in the professional world. Someone caring for an elderly relative may find self-employment offers the most manageable combination for maintaining a career while being able to work from home with flexible hours.

Life after graduation can appear like an exciting horizon you are travelling towards. However, when you finally it reach it, it may hold some unexpected challenges.

Feeling Lost or Overwhelmed

It’s not uncommon to experience difficulty when transitioning from university to the next part of your journey. Lectures, assignments, placements and exams provided a clear structure and expectations on your time and priorities. Moving beyond the rhythm of the university timetable and semesters to a total absence of boundaries can be surprisingly disconcerting. The initial freedom can feel exhilarating but soon after some graduates struggle with feeling lost or overwhelmed by an unknown future. If you are experiencing this, you may benefit from staying actively in communication with your peers who studied with you at university so you can support each other. Your university alumni organisation may also have resources and suggestions for managing these challenges. Staying connected with family and friends can be another supportive network you can utilise. Take steps to minimise any social isolation you may feel now that your regular contact with people at university has ceased. Most importantly, if you notice that your struggle is impacting negatively on your mental health or interfering with your ability to function, seek help from health professionals.

Starting Out with a Debt

Australian money - $50 note and two coins

In many countries, university study requires that you take a loan to pay for courses. For example, Australian students can elect to pay some or all of their university tuition fees using the government Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS). In effect, HECS is a loan from the government taken while studying which students begin to repay after graduation once their income reaches a specified threshold. It may feel discouraging when you are earning your first pay packet to have a student loan looming over you, particularly if you have other expenses to meet such as transport, accommodation and food. There may also be costs associated with a new job such as purchasing equipment, uniforms and professional registrations. Remember to do some research or seek help from financial advisors or budgeting experts to construct a plan for managing any study debt and ongoing expenses.

Unemployment

A significant obstacle you may face after graduation is unemployment. The job market can be unpredictable and fragile, particularly when there has been a global crisis. Some professions may have a high demand for new workers, allowing graduates to move straight from study into paid employment. Other graduates may be faced with an unwanted period of unemployment. Aside from financial stress, unemployment can impact negatively on your self-esteem and your sense of identity. This may make you anxious. Make use of your student and university networks to keep connected to new opportunities that arise suddenly. Review the chapter Preparing for Employment for positive steps you can take to prepare for work. Communicate with your family and friends about the difficulties you are experiencing. If you notice your mental health is declining or your ability to function is affected, seek help from health professionals.

Balancing Life

Those who fill multiple roles simultaneously will likely face challenges in managing time and priorities. Working while parenting, or running a business while studying part-time, can make it difficult to strike the best work-life balance. The more components you juggle, the harder it is to keep all the balls in the air. Recognise that this is not an easy task and do the best you can to make it work for your specific needs and priorities. Remain open to readjusting the balance as things change. As much as possible, stay tuned to those moments when you know you have successfully managed the balance. Consider what worked and try to replicate it. Like before, it may help to view these particular challenges as being only for a season and keep the finish line in sight. Keep in mind that you have the capacity to stop and change your direction if the challenges are proving unworkable or if you feel that you can’t maintain an acceptable balance.

A university experience is not a stagnant one. It takes you somewhere. Students begin with a set of beliefs, experiences and skills that are repeatedly challenged, extended and developed while studying. Equipped with the skills for academic success you can enter into life after graduation with the ability to think critically about any information you hear. You will know how to find information from credible sources, synthesise evidence, build an argument supporting your position and can communicate it effectively. Academic success is the passport to continued success in every direction in life.

Wherever your journey takes you after graduation, there is no doubt that learning will be part of it. Future learning may take place in a formal manner like enrolling in postgraduate study at university, or in attending a training course with a new employer. Conversely, learning can continue informally when watching a documentary at home or having an interesting conversation with friends. Opportunities to further expand your knowledge and challenge your ideas will always exist. Achieving academic success at university ultimately prepares you for successful learning throughout your life. The benefits keep flowing.

It is common to be invited to attend a graduation ceremony when your university study is complete and you have met all the necessary requirements.
Once you have graduated, you automatically become alumni.
Being an active member of your alumni may have advantages.
There are five directions for your future after graduation that you may consider: Finding employment, creating employment, taking a break, further study and life events.
The options are flexible and can be combined.
Some of the challenges graduates face are feeling lost or overwhelmed, starting out with a debt, unemployment and balancing life.
Learning will continue throughout life, whether it is formal or informal.
Achieving academic success at university prepares you for success throughout your life.

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Life After Graduation: A Beginner's Guide [2023]

Congratulations - you made it! You have graduated from a university or are about to graduate very soon. Either way, you have made it this far. So, what's next? Life after graduation is not as straightforward as college life can be. Every recent graduate creates their own path in life.

What You Should Know

Life after graduation can be overwhelming for a young person, especially if you graduate college in your early to mid-twenties. At the same time, it can be an equally exciting new chapter in your life that you can make the most of with proper preparation. And that is exactly what this guide is here for.

Introduction to Adulthood

If you enrolled in college right after finishing high school, then like most college students , you possibly attended a University programme. As a result, although you are mature enough to be a young adult, you have yet to experience what adulthood truly is all about. Universities tend to present housing , networking , and adulthood overall as if it is a lot easier than it truly is. But what happens when you move out of your student accommodation? Or when you can no longer work part-time at the University library? That's when adulthood truly begins.

What to Look Forward to

Once you graduate from a university, your entire world will open up to new prospects, new opportunities, as well as new challenges and new obstacles. If you identify some of them, you can prepare yourself better for what you expect and don't expect.

Wrapping Up Loose Ends

Before you start thinking about what you want to do next, you must first take care of the necessary paperwork and save yourself the trouble of troubling yourself or even getting fined.

Deregister from University

Go to studielink and confirm the completion of your studies via your DigiD. Deregistration applies from the first calendar day of the month that follows. Note that the date of your deregistration is not the same as the date on which you receive your degree or diploma. In addition, if you have a secondary vocational level course diploma (MBO), you must deregister via your college, as you cannot use studielink to do it.

Cancel your Student Loan or Allowance

If you applied for student finance throughout your studies, do not forget to deregister with DUO . Just like deregistering from the university, the cancellation of your student grant/loan or allowance will also come into effect from the first calendar day of the following month. Deregister on time, or you will have to pay back the money if you are not eligible. Furthermore, check and find out the student loan amount you have to repay with DUO.

Convert your Student Bank Account

If you have a student bank account, convert it to a basic one. ABN AMRO allows you to convert your student package to a basic payment package via the mobile app. Alternatively, you might consider switching to another bank like a mobile bank due to favourable conditions at other banks. Further, you may choose to leave the Netherlands and therefore wish to cancel your account altogether.

[Recommended Reading : Banking in the Netherlands ]

Move out of Student Housing

If you rented student accommodation, you must move out at the end of your studies as you cannot request an extension. Be sure to take care of your moving arrangements (packing your bags, selling or donating items you don't need, etc.) before the end date of your contract.

Leaving the Netherlands?

In case you are leaving the Netherlands, there are a few more things that you must take care of:

Deregister from Dutch Municipality . If you are moving out, you must always inform the Municipality about your new address. Moreover, you are obliged to notify that you are leaving the country to discontinue any services provided by the government via your BSN, such as allowances .
Close your bank account . Unless you intend to return to the Netherlands, it’s best to close your bank account. You can then easily transfer the to your money back home using XE , even if there's a difference in currencies.
Cancel monthly subscriptions . If you pay monthly subscriptions for Sim Only deals , bike rentals such as Swapfiets, or Dutch healthcare, don't forget to cancel them!

New Commitments

Have you wrapped up all loose ends? Perfect - it's time to move on to the next chapter.

House Hunting

If you have been renting private accommodation (i.e., non-student accommodation), you can skip this section. If, on the other hand, you need to move out of your student accommodation, it is best to begin the dreadful search for a new place as early as you can (months before your student accommodation contract expires).

Moreover, you may want to consider whether or not you wish to purchase or rent an apartment.

Job Hunting

Finding a job can be difficult for a young graduate. You might even need to settle for a job that does not align with your degree. This adjustment can be temporary or permanent, depending on what you want to do in the long run and where your career trajectory inevitably takes you.

College Life is here to cater to both students but also graduates. To make job hunting easy, check the following resources:

College Life Work (Career Platform)
Zoekjaar Visa Guide for Graduates

For further research, check the following guides:

Part-Time Job: The Alternative Guide to Finding One
College Internships & Traineeships: The Complete Guide
Entry-level Jobs: The Complete Guide
Work in the Netherlands: The Complete Guide
Sim Only Deals in the Netherlands: The Complete Guide [2023]

Note : If you are going to start working in the Netherlands, you must get Dutch health insurance . Once you do, you can apply for a healthcare allowance .

Purchasing a Vehicle

If you are staying in the Netherlands, you might need to re-evaluate your investment in the means of transport that you use. As a student, you might have been renting a bike temporarily or using e-scooters. Now, in your life after graduation , it's time to consider purchasing a cheap bike . Owning a bike is necessary in the Netherlands, but that does not mean it should be expensive. Moreover, are you looking to make even bigger purchases like a car? Bynco (Buy Your Next Car Online) has made online car purchases easier.

Are you a foreign national?

Apply for a Zoekjaar visa! This visa allows you to live and work in the Netherlands without a work permit for one year. College Life's detailed Zoekjaar visa guide lays out the details of it, including its benefits and the step-by-step application process.

Taking Risks

Inspiration and passion are born from taking risks. Challenging yourself helps you see how far you can go and understand your limits. Living a life after graduation is a risk you are bound to face. So, why not push the boundaries a bit further?

It is no secret that travelling has plenty of benefits: it broadens the mind, opens up your world to new opportunities, gives you unique experiences, and enriches your life with unforgettable moments. Further, scientifically proven benefits include a boost to your creativity and happiness and a decreased risk of depression. Travelling provides room for self-reflection, a deeper understanding of how the world works, and a clearer vision of what you want for yourself. Take advantage of it while you can! If you are not from the EU/EEA and are planning to visit European universities, here's how you can get travel insurance .

Self-employment

Are you feeling confident enough to launch your own business?? With its Ambitious Entrepreneurship Action Plan , the Netherlands strongly supports foreign entrepreneurs who wish to enter the Dutch business market. If you're not from the EU/EEA, you can also explore the benefits of a startup visa .

College Life provides you with resources to start your own venture: Lean Canvas: The Complete Guide to Launching Your Venture

Managing your Finances

Risks are best when rational decision-making and planning become their driving forces - such risks are called calculated risks . Be mindful of your budget, your expenses, and the risks that you take.

Create a budgeting journal
Use a planner to shortlist goals you aim to achieve
Prioritize your tasks and goals using the Eisenhower Matrix

Understanding Failure

Failure is an inevitable outcome of choices and risks that you take. However, this shouldn't stop you from making choices. Failing is a learning experience that helps you understand yourself and your preferences as you move forward in your life.

Career Path Unrelated to Your Degree

Diverting from the career path that your college degree has paved for you may not always be a decision that you want to make. Certain circumstances may require you to choose something different to avoid unemployment or underemployment (working a job that does not need a university degree). Unfortunately, recent college graduates struggling to find fulfilling jobs, or jobs that correlate to their degree, have been a common phenomenon since the 2001 recession that brought a sharp decline in economic activity. Therefore, failure can be something completely out of your control. Once you understand it, you can think of creative ways to overcome it.

Giving Up on Lifelong Dreams

If you are anxious about not meeting your goals, don't be afraid to ditch them for new ones. Giving up on dreams and plans that no longer work for you is not necessarily the definition of failure, even though it may seem that way. Remember that external factors such as unemployment, lack of resources, and limited possibilities contribute to your "failures"; some are simply beyond your control. However, what is up to you is the ability to persevere. Don ' t see it as “giving up” on old dreams. You are merely making room for new ones by pivoting, just like startups often do.

Overcoming Failure

Failure is a crucial step in anyone ' s life, including in students' life after graduation. Overcoming it is not simple, but it is certainly not impossible either.

Acknowledging Who You Are

Take the time to discover who you are as a person. The question doesn't have to be answered within a few minutes or overnight. Let it sit for a while and ponder the question: Who are you? When you begin answering, you will find clarity in who you are and what you truly want.

Career expert Ashley Stahl, in her TED talk , talks about the need to do a self-audit . More specifically, she encourages everyone to ask themselves the questions:

Where are you holding yourself captive?
What do you know that you wish you didn ' t know?

Acknowledging Your Strengths

When it comes to failure, you tend to reflect and see what you did wrong. Another way to work around it is to evaluate what you can do right. Note down your skills, look for things you are passionate about, and acknowledge the challenges you can solve.

Ashley Stahl advises following your freedom, where she calls for everyone to pay attention to what feels good to them as a means of setting themselves free. Start by noting down all your ideas and ask for feedback on them from your body's reaction to them:

Do your thoughts bring you joy or fear?
Do you feel expansion or contraction?
Does it generate excitement or dread?
Does it feel liberating or suffocating?

Another recommendation is the joy journal, where for 30 days, you write down every instance of your day that makes you feel joy, no matter how insignificant it may seem. After 30 days, go back and notice whether there are patterns that you can replicate.

Become an active alumnus. Universities invest a lot in building alumni networks , so why not use them? Your alumni association offers multiple benefits that you should take advantage of. After all, universities should make your career prospects easier for you, and networking is one of the best ways to amplify this effect.

Seeking Support

Now and then, life throws you into a situation where you feel like there is nobody you can turn to. Do not underestimate your friends and family ' s support. However, do not overestimate what they can offer to you either. If you need it and don't already have it, try to seek emotional support through therapy. Do not fall victim to the post-college therapy void of feeling helpless because you lack support.

If you need legal assistance or any other help, get in touch.

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Yale Daily News

PERSONAL ESSAY: On Graduating in a Pandemic

Contributing Reporter

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Four years ago, I entered Yale as part of the class of 2021, and now the year I both dreaded and anticipated is here. It’s 2021; my senior spring. What I imagined would be a victory lap after three and a half of the best years of my life looks a lot more like a slog to an ever-moving finish line. Almost every part of my imagined college experience has changed, and these changes due to COVID — multiplied over the thousands of seniors graduating this year and last — produce an impact that we will feel for years to come.

My former suitemates, whom I’ve spent many nights with imagining the future, are now in different cities across the U.S. When I first came to Yale, my idealized college experience was centered around our suite unit; I imagined that we would weather four years of Yale, then enter the rest of the world together. Instead, only three out of my six suitemates from sophomore year are still graduating in 2021, and all of us are headed to very different futures than we had imagined. What remains of our graduating class resembles my ex-suite: altered plans and changed people, staggering in unexpected new directions.

I called those of my former suitemates who are still graduating — pseudonymized here as Paris, Maia and Luisa — and we discussed where we might be in the next couple years. The following are imagined futures loosely based upon these conversations.

In 2024, PARIS lives in a sun-soaked 15th-story apartment, the fourth or fifth she’s lived in since graduating, with a windowsill full of plants: philodendrons, African violets, basil, a Venus flytrap. Her dark hair is now short, shorter than it’s been since college, and her apartment-mates are what she would describe as “boss ladies.” Her phone beeps with a text from one of the teenage girls that she works with at her job as a community organizer; the sound wakes up her pitbull, who lazily flaps an ear and curls back up against the back of her desk chair.

It will be three years since Paris left New Haven and fled to new cities to escape a suffocating senior year spent in quarantine. Feeling that COVID catapulted her prematurely into adulthood, Paris ran in the opposite direction of a stable “adult” job. After graduating, she spent time backpacking in South America, teaching in Spain and organizing in Philadelphia. She went wherever there was movement and action and young people. The wanderer lifestyle she chose was in direct reaction to the sensation of being stuck.

Paris has switched therapists several times over the course of the three years because she always felt like progress wasn’t being made in sessions. Somehow, the pandemic never quite leaves the conversation. Her wanderlust and rejection of normal, “age-appropriate” behavior feels like the continuation of senior year: no demarcation between one chapter ending and another beginning; continual limbo. Her near-excessive accumulation of plants, pets, books, artwork, things , according to her newest therapist, Alicia, represents the anchors that Paris uses to prevent herself from floating away entirely. And her retreat from many of the friends she had made in college, Alicia tells her, may be the response to having grown disconnected from the emotional states of others — she feels alone, and has come to believe that she is alone in feeling alone. Everyone else is a monolith of unrelatable, happy people and she quickly falls away from them, feeling like there is little mutual ground for conversation left.

In 2023, MAIA has joined the consulting company that she has worked for since sophomore summer. She still keeps in touch with a handful of people from college, but she spends most of her time texting her cohort at work about the ever-changing demands of their entertainment industry clientele. Maia recently started seeing someone, but she realizes she doesn’t have a lot of patience for things like nights out. She occasionally does productions with a local theater group, but even that feels like work sometimes.

Graduation had been dampened by so many other competing demands. What once was celebratory and important, had become decidedly… not. Maia rationalized to herself that graduation mattered so little in the context of people losing their loved ones to a raging virus; she had herself so thoroughly convinced that by the time the virtual event came and went, it had long been classified as a forgettable memory. Pomp and circumstance, the commemoration of accomplishment — all foreign concepts. Change was dulled; the anticlimactic feeling of leaving college and starting work was further reinforced by having already spent six months at home, unable to see friends, with the only noticeable change in her day-to-day being a Zoom link with a corporate header instead of a Yale one.

Now a full-fledged member of the workforce, Maia finds that there was no celebration there either. At a company that had once mailed their prospective employees cupcakes to woo them into signing, Maia has not yet tasted a single company-sponsored dessert nor attended a cheese-tasting event. There is no more wining and dining, much less company-sponsored recreation, and even a reduction in company merch. She tells herself, logically, they know you won’t reject a job during COVID, and they are right. And who am I to complain when others are unemployed? The work we do is the most important thing, anyway, she tells herself. The days of after-show parties and spontaneous happy hours are long gone.

Instead of fun with friends, the pleasures of life look a lot more like solitude at home. Since senior year, Maia has begun to enjoy the growth she notices in herself. She has learned more about how to be an adult — cooking recipes, paying rent, being able to decide when to start working and when to stop (the stopping is still hard sometimes). She feels gratitude for the friends that she still talks to from time to time, and for the ordinary things like warm showers and cold drinks. She is getting better at being alone.

In 2022, LUISA, with her plaid backpack and teal Yeti rambler (the same one from sophomore year of Yale), is back to the books, spending most of her time exactly where she had planned for senior year: in libraries and coffee shops. The backdrop has changed, but the rhythms of academia remain a wonderful constant. She misses stability so much that her craving for certainty makes her return to school. The master’s degree wasn’t part of the plan, but neither was this virus, and school feels like the closest thing to normal, even if everything has to be from a laptop.

Luisa is impressed with herself for how well she deals with unmet expectations. Friendships were permanently fractured because of the distance created by the pandemic, and past Luisa would have been torn up every night. Instead, she feels a sense of emptiness where there once lived feelings like attachment. “ Maybe if we had been sophomores, the gaps would have slowly been closed again over time , but because of the lasting impression of people in masks keeping distance, dwindingly friendships a year out seem only natural,” she writes in her brand-new Moleskine — teal, like the rambler. The premature separation from her classmates by geographical location, by gap-year “1.5” graduating class divisions, by on- and off-campus, sucks. Luisa feels like they had been rushed into the next phase of their lives before even making it to the climax of the current one. All the more reason, she thinks, to tether herself to some semblance of normalcy: Her weekly course calendar is something she can rely on.

It’s 2021 and I sit in my off-campus apartment, daydreaming about the future and wondering where this spring season will take us. I stare outside the window, wondering when I’ll finally be free from this longing feeling for a chance to gather with my ex-suitemates, to be free of hypervigilance about safety and cleanliness, to just have a sleepover or meet a new friend without worry. I think about my plans to stay in the city next year, and about all the missed potential from an ideal senior year.

The only thing I appreciate is this: Right before we got sent home, I was hurtling toward disaster, going 100 miles per minute into the future, and COVID forced me to slow down. I was forced to recognize the beauty in the slow. Graduation has historically been all about projecting into the future — anticipating what’s to come, cherishing the bright spots within these precious college years, formation and self-discovery in an ever-accelerating landscape. Pandemic graduation seems to be about having the brakes thrown into our plans, and being forced to sit still and alone for a very long time.

Every year, college grads bid goodbye to their family away from home. The difference, this year and the last, is that we did not see our goodbyes coming. Who knew that the last time we’d see Jimmy from Davenport was that final Friday in “Game Theory,” or that we should have hugged Collin from FOOT goodbye when we passed him on the street? Our plans changed; the people in our lives changed. Some of us who thought we would stay in New Haven exited this pandemic deciding it was time to go; and others who entered thinking it was a get-the-degree and get-out situation, found themselves wanting to stay just one more year in New Haven. One more normal year. Disparities and distance grew between the employed and the still-searching; our support systems, the ones that should have been solidified during these past four years, are flimsy at best as we get shuttled into the rest of our adult lives. And yet we persist. We try to bring back the dinners, the movie nights. We make plans once again. We gather as a suite on Zoom and dream out loud about the people we’ll meet, the things we’ll do and the places we’ll go once we graduate into this pandemic and out into the rest of the world. Each of us four departing seniors head in different directions, none of us knowing exactly where we will land. All we have to fuel us onward are some precious memories of the good old days, and faith that we are resilient enough to get through graduating, even in a pandemic.

Kalina Mladenova

Student Life

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What Is Life Like After Graduating?

It goes without saying that everyone in life has their own path to take. Students across the country spend several years buried in textbooks, cramming for exams and befriending SparkNotes for those last minute essays. Until that fateful day comes where you say goodbye to the title of “student” and exchange it for the role of “adult”—you cross that graduation stage with a piece of paper worth thousands of dollars in hand, unaware of what the future has in store. But what is life like after graduating?

We sat down with a few graduates one year after finishing school to get some insight on what life has been like as alumni. The good, bad and the ugly.

What has been the biggest learning curve for you since graduating.

“The biggest learning curve since graduating has definitely been adjusting to this new phase of life. When you’re in university, you’re so involved with school that even when you’re not in class you’re thinking about school. After graduating, it took me a while to get out of that headspace —I still felt panic about picking courses in August when I didn’t need to!

The goal was to take a few months off, move back in with my parents and work for the summer while applying for jobs in Toronto. Upon getting a job I’d move back to the city.

SPOILER ALERT: Things did not turn out as expected…

Although I didn’t get the dream job, I am in a better place financially, physically and emotionally. Now I feel better prepared to take on the next phase of post-grad life—it just took a little longer to get there. I realize I don’t have to have everything figured out, but it’s good to have a general plan and options if one route doesn’t work out. I was so scared of what came after graduation that I avoided thinking about the next phase of my life. Having some sort of plan and even a back-up plan can be entirely beneficial—that is my best advice. Besides, there’s nothing wrong with taking a break!”

– Emma, 22

What’s something you learned after graduating that you wished you knew when you were in school?

“Prior to graduation, I wish I had known how powerful following up can be. In the performing arts , you often submit for jobs online and are not seen in a live audition setting; this is where it becomes important to follow up. If you stay on their radar, you’re much more likely to pop into their head when they are searching for that perfect person. More often than not, I have booked jobs because I was constantly in their inbox (within reason).

Also, you may find yourself doing something different than your actual line of work. But this can benefit your future career! I never thought about working where I do now, but the opportunity opened my eyes to other ideas including a different way to improve my:

mental and physical health
communication
owning a business
improving my teaching skills

Though it may not be directly in my field, the environment and encouragement have helped make me better in the business aspect of performance.”

– Jamie, 27

Are you where you thought you wanted to be? Have you changed course?

“If you asked me this a month ago, I would have said no… I was working a 9 to 5 job and had an hour-long commute each way. It’s one thing to run from class to class by being overly involved in school, but it’s another to get used to the monotony of office work for 9 months straight.

Thankfully, I did some soul searching and made the right change to get back on track. I took a small detour to make money and got a different kind of experience, but that has only led me back to my original goal.

Basically, it has solidified what I truly want to do in life.

Take your time finding a job (if you can). Don’t jump at the first one that comes your way but don’t be too picky either. All of the right things will fall where they need to and only time will tell where you’ll be. Whatever you choose to do after you graduate could change a few months later. Don’t shy away from that. Understand that it’s okay to re-route even after you thought you were settled in the right place.”

– Maxine, 24

Has it been hard finding a good work-life balance?

“Finding a good work-life balance took some time. In an entry-level position, gaining responsibility took a few months. It wasn’t until I had been there for 4 or 5 months that I started to understand why people struggled with a balance. The longer I was in my role, the more I wanted to stay late. To prove my worth.

What really helped me get out of my tunnel vision was a two-week vacation I’d planned before I accepted my position. It forced me to take a break even if I didn’t think it was the “right time”. And the vacation gave me perspective on the amount of work I had been focusing on. It also offered me more perspective on how I could improve a lot of personal relationships. When you’re with your friends in school, it’s easy to keep in touch. But once I had a full-time position, I realized how much harder maintaining those friendships was. Returning from my trip was refreshing and gave me the energy to reorganize my priorities to make sure I had a true work-life balance.”

– Taylor, 22

What’s the best piece of advice you would give to someone who is about to graduate?

“Life after graduation was tough for me. It was the first time in life when I didn’t have any sort of predetermined plan for what I would do. My mind went through the usual: go back to school, pursue a masters, find work. I was having a hard time adjusting to my first time being out of school EVER and it was more difficult because my program had been a tight-knit community.

That summer, I traveled and went on a road trip. I even used that time to relax, but I still felt out of place. I began to pursue a certificate and, soon after, wound up working part-time in my field. And I really enjoyed it there, but the hours were small and I’d work very late nights. Most importantly, I still didn’t have the structure I was craving. It was looking pretty grim, but I filled my time with fun and productive activities like attending dance classes.

A few months after “officially” getting my degree, I got a job and that job was perfect for me!

The best advice I can give is to be patient . I know it’s cliché and cheesy, but it’s true. Fill your time, if financially feasible, with hobbies that you love but are also productive. Now, you are taking advantage of your time for your passions that will also advance you as a person. Staying positive can be hard, but you need to surround yourself with the best people.

Another important thing: don’t base your self worth on your career and education. You’re so much more than that and, at the end of the day, the one thing you can always be proud of is your character and outlook on life!”

– Selin, 23

Has life gone according to your master post-graduation plan?

“I don’t think life can ever really go according to your ‘master plan’ but I’m more on-track than I ever thought I would be! I ended up getting a dream first job out of school that wasn’t entry level, so I skipped a step of my plan! The work you put in during school (volunteering, getting involved in student government, and hustling on the weekends) can really set you up for success!”

– Sarah, 22

What’s the greatest thing about no longer being a student?

“I wasn’t a very involved student. To be frank, being a student wasn’t a huge interest of mine. I just wanted to move forward with my life. Now, I’m happily working in travel and tourism where every other week I fly to a new country, visit a new city, and have meetings with clients all over the world!

As a student, I hardly ever had time to travel while balancing projects and tests. Maybe it’s just my opinion, but the best thing about no longer being a student is FREEDOM. I’m responsible for my own actions and my own life. If I want to stay up until 4am and wake up at 5pm, I can and I will. If I want to hop on a plane and move to Germany for the next 7 months, I will! Why? Because I can! No longer being a student anymore is GREAT!”

– Derrick, 19

What’s the worst thing about no longer being a student?

“Although graduation brought on an exciting new chapter, I didn’t realize how many things I would lose. Firstly, you lose health benefits. Quickly after gaining my degree, I realized how little I’d taken advantage of my benefits (ex. medications, the dentist, massages, etc). Being a student was incredible. You’re actively bettering your future without the responsibility of trying to make it as an adult in the real world.

And those student discounts! Please do me a favor and show your student card EVERYWHERE while you can. You’ll be shocked by how much you can get by flashing it. Essentially, though school is a lot of work, being a student is living in a comfortable bubble. You’re respected enough to get employed and strike an interesting conversation, yet you can still go to bars 5 times a week with minimal judgment. Would I do it all over again if I had the option? Despite the countless hours of sleep deprivation, full-fledged mental breakdowns, exams, tests, and projects… yes, 100% I would!”

– Ellis, 21

If you could go back in time and change this past year, would you?

“It’s hard to say… In school, you have this huge opportunity to move out of your comfort zone—you can take risks and experiment in fields beyond your specialized field. You could study business and still be in the school’s fashion show! Once you work full-time, you lose time and patience to do things outside of your 9 to 5 job.

I was really lucky.

Everything went accordingly to my master plan, or so I thought. I was hired by a great company that I interned for. Although I feel fortunate, it’s one year later and I’m starting to realize that I don’t feel fulfilled at work. If I could go back in time, perhaps I would have taken a more creative route, become self-employed to start my own business and be responsible for my own success as a whole. However, it’s scary to graduate and not be able to pay off your debts—the thought of failing scares me.

So, I took the secure route.

I work in finance where numbers (to me) mean success. Now, I know that I need to move on to something that will be fulfilling and will make me happy to wake up in the morning. But I wouldn’t have been able to express this knowledge without working where I do now.

In short, I wouldn’t change this past year. I’ve learned that I want to find a job that makes a positive impact and is financially secure but doesn’t forsake my own happiness.”

– Nicolas, 23

Well, there you have it, folks. No matter if you land the job, move back home, travel the world, pay off your loans, hate your job or have no job at all—WE ALL HAVE A DIFFERENT PATH. No one’s journey is exactly the same, so take a breather because you only get one life. Learn to enjoy every moment after graduating!

Life happens but if you can pass years of tests, essays, and presentations, then there’s nothing you can’t do! Besides, your fellow alumni have gone through the same adulting crisis and if they can do it, YOU CAN TOO! So eat your vitamins, polish up that resume (see our resume, cover letter, and personal branding tips HERE ), then go visit your doctor and dentist before graduating so you use those health benefits! You’ll thank us later.

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*Opinions expressed are those of the author, and not necessarily those of Student Life Network or their partners.

Mikael M. Melo

A pop culture addict, Mikael is a graduate of Ryerson’s Radio and Television Arts (RTA): Media Production program. He’s worked for companies such as BuzzFeed, eTalk, iHeartRadio, The Cannes Film Festival, etc. You can find him on any social media platform as @mikaelmmelo

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You can rack up hundreds of entries to give yourself the best odds possible of winning the life-changing bundle of prizes.

boost chances of winning canada's luckiest student

Be Awesomer at School. Then Get Hired.

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Life after college – Definition essay

Introduction

In my essay, I define what life after college means to most people based on my experience and some general assumptions. There is a certain feeling amongst most students that their life will be different after they leave college compared to if they entered the working world without going to college. My essay defines the experience most students expect to have after leaving college.

The Qualification

A student leaves college with a qualification. The qualification – whether academic (degree) or vocational (certificate or diploma) usually garners respect. This respect comes from either the wider community (usually for academic qualifications) or from specialists and employers (vocational qualifications). There is also usually respect and a sense of pride and achievement from members of the graduate’s family.

Time to become an adult

Many students believe that being in college extends the amount of time they are not yet part of the adult society. This is because students may continue to live with their parents when they are studying, which means house rules similar to those the student had as a child. Alternatively, a student may live in a college dorm, which too may be considered an extension of childhood because there are a lot of rules in dorm–especially when it comes to adult behavior such as smoking, drugs, sex, parties and drinking. It is therefore not illogical to assume that under these circumstances a student experiences an extended childhood.

Getting a job for a better wage

Life after college should mean that a graduate gets a job that pays more money than someone who didn’t go to college. This is true in many cases, though the current economic climate, a qualification or degree of any kind is no guarantee of a job and no guarantee of a higher wage. There are even arguments that experience counts for more in some industries. In jobs where experience is more important than qualifications, the student with the degree is at a disadvantage.

Having to work after being in extended education

Having to work a full-time job after being in extended education is another aspect that defines life after college. A graduate has to adapt from being in college with a fairly easy-going timetable to being in a job with rigorous timeframes. There may be far fewer opportunities to expand knowledge, and a job may become mundane very quickly. There is also the fact that the person may not have much experience working for a boss or working with coworkers and may struggle in adapting to the working life.

Life after college can be defined as when students become adults, when they learn how to work and fit into a corporate environment and when they may get a better wage than if they were unqualified. None of these definitions are set in stone, as there are so many possibilities open to students when they leave college, but the definition given is the one most expected and most experienced by students, both in college and those who have left college.

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Articles & Advice > Student Life > Articles

10 Ways to Prepare Now for a Great Life After College

There are many things you can do during college to build a great foundation for career success and life after graduation. Here are 10 steps to get started!

by Leon Collier Blogger and Academic Writer

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Originally Posted: Apr 30, 2021

While college students have the freedom to manage their time a little more loosely, procrastination is a common affliction that affects most students, and sometimes you lose track of your goals. But prioritizing your schoolwork, skills, and knowledge creates a great foundation for your future career and postgrad success. These 10 tips can help you prepare well and plan for life after your college education.

1. Actively look for a job

The more you apply for appropriate job opportunities, the better chance you’ll have to be employed as soon as possible after graduation. Job boards, social media, and network referrals are some of the ways you can find career opportunities. Frustration may build if you’re applying for jobs and you don’t get an interview, especially during a time when so many others are looking for employment. You might want to stop, but the secret is to never give up. Always work to improve your résumé and ensure that you’ve listed relevant skills mentioned in each job post. Tailoring your application to every opportunity you find could make a world of difference to your job search success.

Related: Job Search Advice for the Coronavirus Crisis

2. Take on internships

As much as organizations need vibrant and youthful employees, they require people who demonstrate that they have the skills to do the job. Having internships in college will give you hands-on experience and the confidence to handle assignments and deadlines. If you’re an underclassman, you don’t have to wait until you graduate to start building your job experience . Long breaks and periods when you have fewer classes are the perfect time to take on internships.

3. Build your network

Active networking has a lot of benefits for career growth. When you surround yourself withpeople who have the same interests and goals as you, you’ll get new ideas, career support, job referrals, professional advice, and long-lasting personal relationships. Your network can be made up of professors, advisors, friends, family members, coworkers, or new people you interact with every day. Building a good reputation with these people and being a regular contributor in group settings will help you reap the maximum benefits of your network.

Related: How to Use Your College Network to Land a Job

4. Find a mentor

Every successful professional has someone to look up to as a mentor or role model—someone who inspires them to reach greater heights. A mentor will guide you through your career and entrepreneurial journey by providing you with advice and encouragement and improving your overall life. Remember that a mentor should not do it for material gain; instead, they should be driven by the urge to help others succeed and want to share their success stories with you.

5. Stick to a budget

Even if you’re still in college, you need a way to manage your finances every day. Coming up with a financial plan can be a daunting task, but the trick is figuring out one that works for you by making adjustments until you’re satisfied. By creating and sticking to a budget , you’ll be able to track your income, identify situations where you’re spending the most money, cut the unnecessary spending, and funnel the extra cash into your goals and savings. But remember, a financial plan is not a fixed blueprint—it should be reviewed regularly and updated according to your lifestyle and changing circumstances.

Related: Budgeting Basics for College Students, Plus Example Spreadsheet

6. Refine your social media profiles and posts

LinkedIn is afoundation for personal branding. You should build a LinkedIn profile that strongly describes your professional skills and experiences to potential employers. A good account will have a professional profile picture, relevant skills, an eye-catching headline, and relevant highlighted job experiences. While you’re at it, polish your other social media networks too, like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Get rid of things that you wouldn’t want employers to see. It’s normal to have fun, but you need to protect your professional image online.

7. Service your loans

You may have sought financial assistance in the form of student loans to help finance your college costs. Help yourself out with those by boosting your pocket money now with a small business project or part-time job. There’s no secret formula to paying off your loans, but you can make financial sacrifices, stick to your budget, look for side hustles, and stay motivated to enjoy the power of living a debt-free life as soon as possible. Fast loan servicing means that you pay more than the minimum payment required every month, so be sure to factor that into your postgrad budget.

Related: 8 Ways to Pay Off Student Loans Faster and Save Money

8. Follow your interests

Your interests are the most vital aspects of your career success. Take time to research what you love most and would enjoy doing every day concerning your field of study. While there are numerous factors that will influence you to drift away from your interests and career development , the most valuable thing is never losing focus until you see the results you seek. You should never choose a career based on salary, people’s influence, or prestige, as it may lead to dissatisfaction and job disqualification.

9. Have a clear plan

Failing to plan is planning to fail—it’s that simple. While you’re in college, you should create an outline of the path you wish your career to follow. This plan will help you see how far you progress in achieving your set goals and how far you still have to go. Map out how you’ll acquire job skills, manage class time and free time, and navigate the postgrad job search . This road map will motivate you to work harder and accomplish your life goals within a shorter period.

10. Prepare for your next step

If you’re still in college, preparing well for exams and avoiding last-minute cramming should also be part of your success plan. Schedule study time and make outlines with key points to help you comprehend what you need to pass your exams and ace your courses. For those about to enter the real world, putting your practical skills to use is vital to boosting your employment chances. Get as much hands-on experience as possible, whether it’s through part-time work, internships, or volunteering. And before any job interview, be sure to familiarize yourself well with your résumé, practice common interview questions , and research the hiring company.

Related: 4 Great Ways to Start Thinking About Your Future Career

If you’re graduating this year and have put off some of these tasks, it’s not too late to get on track. Taking these steps will no doubt lead to a promising future, but it’s also crucial to relax, hang out with friends, and have fun to remedy stress. By finding a good balance between your educational, professional, and social activities, you’ll have the best job search experience and be ready to conquer the real world. Good luck!

Looking for an internship or your first postgrad job? Check out all the advice in our Internships and Careers section.

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Life After Graduation: Expectations vs. Reality

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The hardest part about the time between finishing my college credits and having a commencement ceremony was settling into the reality of no longer being a student.

I'll tell you a little bit about what graduating looked like for me. I completed requirements for my bachelors degree in December 2020. After the hybrid learning experience of that fall semester, I felt so wound up with stress and loneliness that I didn't even want to celebrate. I also had two unfinished assignments that I'd gotten extensions on. So when I arrived home for winter break, while my parents were ready to throw a party, I told them not to even call me a college graduate. I didn't feel like one.

To add to that, my school didn't hold a celebration for mid-year graduates. I received my diploma in the mail in January but had to wait five more months for my official commencement.

Last winter and spring were challenging. It was surprisingly hard to establish a routine outside of school — but maybe I shouldn't have been surprised. After all, I'd spent my whole life attending classes nine months out of the year and preparing for those classes the other three months (aka the dreaded summer reading).

My hope in this article is to share the expectations I had about graduating and how they differed from my actual experience so that you can support your student when they go through this transition — even if they don't graduate mid-year or during a pandemic!

Expectation #1: I need to have an AMAZING job right out of college!

Reality: Your student might not have ANY job right out of college.

This expectation is ingrained in students' minds despite all the evidence to the contrary. My parents assured me frequently that I could do any job out of college, and that would be okay. But I still panicked over this expectation starting junior year. "Eek, when I graduate, what job am I going to do? It needs to be a GOOD one! Should I start applying now? What if I have to go back to working at the grocery store?!"

(Now that I'm in the midst of a post-graduation gap year, returning to the grocery store where I worked during high school and college breaks actually sounds appealing. An easy job where I can save up money while looking for another position and having fun in my free time? Sweet!)

Maybe you have high expectations for your student; you don't want them to spend tens of thousands of dollars earning a degree just to settle back into an hourly job that doesn't utilize all the skills they developed at university. That's rational! And in the long run, I hope your student doesn't do that, either.

However, the expectation of finding the "perfect job" right out of college makes graduation stressful, not fun. The closer your student gets to graduating, the more they might dread it because they fear being stuck at a job that doesn't meet the high standards they've been taught growing up.

If your student is feeling this way right now, I encourage you to remind them that there is no rush. They are not less valuable just because they get a minimum wage job out of college; their degree is not suddenly meaningless and their future jeopardized if they don't immediately land a job in their area of study (this one was a hard pill for me to swallow).

They have time. Give them grace.

Expectation #2: As soon as I graduate, I need to start "doing stuff with my life"...and fast!

Reality: There is no timeline after graduation.

I don't know where this expectation comes from, but it seems to be a life-long one. Many adults I know also struggle with feeling a pressure to get things done fast .

In reality, there's no prescribed timeline. Your student can take as long as they need to process their graduation, unwind from the routine of being at school and consider what they want to do next.

I felt like as soon as I graduated college, I no longer had any goals. That's because I am now responsible for setting my own goals. If your student feels similarly and needs some structure, work with them to create goals and plans. You could create anywhere from a one-month plan to a five-year plan. Having you walk them through the process of exploring the future and encourage them not to feel pressured by a mysteriously fast-paced timeline could be very beneficial.

So, remind your student of this: there is no rush! Nothing bad is going to happen if they wait before making any decisions. The choice they ultimately make should be one they will enjoy.

And try not to pressure your student in any way. Allow them room to process graduating. Let them pick up a few new hobbies. Give them time to have fun and celebrate before getting a job or going back to school. Encourage them to rest!

Read Dear College Senior: You Don't Have to Have Everything Figured Out >

Expectation #3: I'm going to use my degree so much when I graduate!

Reality: Your student may use skills they gained in college but might not get a job in their field.

I, personally, feel like I frequently use skills from my field of study even though my current job isn't the exact same as my degree. I majored in journalism, and I'm not currently a full-time journalist. However, I have outlets where I can still manage social media, send out emails and write articles. Even though I don't do journalism full-time, I'm using those skills.

I have multiple friends who studied something they were passionate about, and as soon as they graduated, they decided they didn't want to work in that field at all — or the job they were able to find right away was nowhere near the same field. One of my friends got a B.A. in Music Composition, and now he's going to grad school to pursue his undergraduate minor, Psychology. His first job out of college was working graveyard shifts at an orphanage.

Going to college is about more than just getting a degree to show future employers. Even if your student doesn't always work in the same field as their degree, they will have grown in many other ways. In college, they're surrounded by opportunities to be challenged intellectually, socially, spiritually and emotionally. My music major friend, for instance, learned a lot in his undergrad that's now helping him in graduate school, and he may return to music composition as a way of expressing himself.

Bottom line: Even if your student doesn't get a job after college in their exact field of study, it doesn't mean that working toward their degree was for nothing or that it's a bad thing to get experience in a different career than you studied at school. I think people should always be learning new things!

Expectation #4: Graduation will be so fun!

Reality: Honestly, it depends.

I had a more exciting graduation experience in high school than college. By that I mean that when I graduated high school, I had senior breakfast events, senior sleepovers and a big grad party with my two closest friends. When I graduated college, I had a celebratory dinner with my family, encouraging emails from professors, and one senior breakfast event (that I actually couldn't attend because I was already out of town). I didn't have a grad party at all.

For me and many students, graduating college may be the biggest accomplishment of our lives so far. But the celebration might not match up.

In the five months following my graduation in December 2020, I went through a period of anxiety and existential dread. I felt like my college experience meant nothing and that the "real world" wasn't fun. I didn't want to create my own schedule. I missed professors telling me what to do and ranking me with grades and giving me structure. Fortunately that period has faded, and I grew a lot from it.

My brother felt the same way when he graduated two years before me, and for him it lasted over a year. Some of my friends resonated with my experience, even while finishing their final semester. Your student may go through a similar existential or anxious time.

There is hope! If your student is going through something similar, remind them that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Encourage them to focus on whatever brings them joy, and help them to write down the stories in their head about what is stressing them out. For me, I felt like I needed to have my future figured out instantly, but worrying didn't help and just caused me to feel more anxious over something that wasn't true.

Expectation #5: No way am I moving back home after graduation!

Reality: Many students live with their parents for a bit. It depends on your availability and your student's needs.

Even though the context surrounding my graduation was not super positive, my parents were. They encouraged me when I was deep in fear of the future, and they reminded me of the joy of life. They also helped me work through my anxiety after college and to settle into a more structured routine on my own. You have an opportunity to do the same for your student!

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Create a Vision Board With Your Student

Essay on Life After College

Students are often asked to write an essay on Life After College in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Life After College

Stepping into the real world.

Graduating from college is like opening a new book. It’s exciting and thrilling, but also a bit scary. You’re stepping into the real world, leaving behind the safety of school life. You’re no longer a student, but a young adult ready to make your mark.

Finding a Job

Managing money.

Once you start working, you’ll begin to earn money. But with money comes responsibility. You’ll need to learn how to manage it wisely. This means budgeting, saving, and spending carefully. It’s a big part of adult life.

Living Independently

After college, you might move out of your parents’ house and live on your own. This means taking care of yourself, cooking your own meals, and paying your own bills. It’s a big step, but it’s also a chance to grow and learn.

Continuing Education

250 words essay on life after college.

Life after college is like stepping into a new world. It’s like moving from a small pond into a big ocean. The safety and comfort of college life are replaced by new challenges and opportunities.

Job Hunting

Firstly, you start looking for a job. This can be tough because you are competing with many others. You need to make your resume stand out. You might face rejection, but don’t lose hope. Keep trying until you find the right job.

Independence

Next, you experience more independence. You may move to a new city for work. You have to manage your own money, rent, bills, and food. It’s a chance to learn and grow.

Building Relationships

Also, you will meet new people. You build relationships with colleagues, bosses, and clients. These relationships can help you in your career. They can also bring joy and support in life.

Continuous Learning

Lastly, learning doesn’t stop after college. You learn new skills at work. You may even go back to school for more education. You continue to learn and grow throughout your life.

500 Words Essay on Life After College

Starting a new chapter.

When you finish college, you start a new chapter in your life. This time is full of changes and can be both exciting and scary. It’s like stepping into a whole new world, where you’re no longer a student but a grown-up with responsibilities.

One of the first things most people do after college is look for a job. This can be tough, especially if you don’t have much work experience. You might have to send out many resumes and go to a lot of interviews before you find the right job. But don’t lose hope! Just keep trying and remember that every no brings you closer to a yes.

Learning to Manage Money

After college, you also need to learn how to manage your money. This means making a budget, paying bills, and saving for the future. It’s important to be careful with your money and not spend it all at once. Try to save a little bit each month, even if it’s just a few dollars.

Making New Friends and Keeping Old Ones

Taking care of your health.

Another important part of life after college is taking care of your health. This means eating healthy, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. It can be easy to neglect your health when you’re busy with work, but it’s important to make it a priority.

Planning for the Future

In conclusion, life after college is a time of change and growth. It can be challenging, but it’s also an exciting time full of possibilities. So don’t be afraid to take risks and make the most of this new chapter in your life.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Happy studying!

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Navigating Life After College: Your Next Steps After Graduation

After the structured college environment, the next stage of your life can feel daunting and exciting. During this transition, you must balance independence with responsibility, but it can be navigated smoothly with the right mindset and strategic approach. Here are some of the best tips and strategies from National Society of High School Scholars to help you feel confident about the future.

Embrace Change and Uncertainty

The first step in transitioning to life after college is accepting that change is inevitable. The predictable schedule of classes and tests may have given you a sense of security, but life beyond college is unpredictable. Accept this time of change as a chance for personal development and discovery, despite how difficult it may seem.

Consider uncertainty as a spark for creativity and invention rather than something to be afraid of. Accepting change allows you to be open to fresh experiences and opportunities that may unexpectedly improve your life.

Reflect on Your Values and Goals

Use this time to think about your long-term goals, hobbies, and values. What are your aspirations for your career? What kind of way of life do you hope to lead? What is your ideal living situation? Determining your priorities will assist you in making well-informed choices regarding what to do after graduation.

Think back on your educational experiences, the knowledge you've gained, and the principles that influence your choices. Think about the things that make you happy, fulfilled, and purposeful. Then, utilize that knowledge to guide your post-college path.

Making sense of your dreams and goals is crucial to planning your future. Make a plan to accomplish your long-term objectives by breaking them down into more manageable, smaller tasks. Once you graduate from college, you may create a meaningful and fulfilling life by making decisions that are in line with your values and goals.

Develop a Plan

Crafting a plan is crucial for navigating life after college. Start by setting short-term and long-term goals, whether they are about your career, personal development, or financial stability. You may also consider creating a vision board or visualization exercise to reinforce your aspirations and help solidify your commitment to achieving them.

Remember that these goals may not be exactly how your life turns out, but they can help guide you toward the big picture you desire.

Network Strategically

An important part of life after college is networking . Starting even before graduation, you can use online resources like LinkedIn, informative interviews, and networking events to build ties with professionals in your field of interest. These relationships may lead to insightful conversations, employment openings, and even mentorship.

Although it takes time and labor to develop a strong professional network, the advantages are priceless. To start building your network and meeting like-minded individuals, start by contacting former students from your college or university who are currently employed in your field of interest. You can also attend industry conferences, seminars, and workshops.

Pursue Further Education or Training

Some people's job goals may align with additional schooling or specialized training. Your employment prospects and marketability can be improved by investing in your education, whether taking online courses, getting a master's degree, or applying to professional certification programs.

Look for opportunities for hands-on learning and skill development outside formal education. Consider volunteering, internships, or part-time work in your desired field to gain practical experience and make valuable connections.

Secure Employment or Internships

For many fresh graduates, obtaining work or internships is at the top of their minds. Use career fairs, alumni networks, and internet job boards like the NSHSS career center to find opportunities. Make sure your cover letter and resume showcase your experiences and skills, and be ready for interviews by preparing for some mock interviews.

Be prepared to navigate the job search process with confidence and professionalism. Practice your interviewing skills, dress appropriately for interviews, and follow up with thank-you notes or emails after each interaction. Remember that rejection is a natural part of the job search process, and don't let setbacks deter you from pursuing your goals.

Manage Your Finances Wisely

To successfully navigate life after college, financial literacy is crucial. To keep track of your spending, including rent, utilities, groceries, and student loan payments, create a budget that you can follow.

Consider setting up automatic contributions to your retirement and savings accounts as soon as you receive income. Save 10–20% of your salary to achieve long-term financial objectives like home ownership, establishing a family, or a comfortable retirement. Utilize employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as 403(b) or 401(k) accounts, and make enough contributions to be eligible for matching contributions.

Being prudent with your money is a lifelong skill that will benefit you in all area of your life. You may accomplish your long-term goals and lay a strong foundation for financial security by forming these financial habits early in life.

Seek Mentorship and Guidance

Seeking mentorship from experienced professionals can provide invaluable guidance and support in this time of your life. Reach out to professors, alumni, or industry professionals who can offer advice based on their experiences and expertise.

It is also important to know that mentorship is not a one-time interaction but an ongoing relationship that requires nurturing and investment. Stay in touch with your mentors regularly, providing updates on your progress and seeking their advice and guidance as needed.

In addition to a formal mentorship, seek out guidance and support from peers, colleagues, and advisors. Build a support network of trusted individuals who can offer different perspectives and insights into your career and personal development.

Embrace Continuous Learning and Growth

After college, life is an ongoing process of learning and development. Stay curious and open-minded to better adapt to your new life. Continuously use professional development tools, go to seminars and workshops, and aggressively seek feedback.

In addition to technical skills, prioritize the development of soft skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving. These skills are highly valued by employers and essential for success in any career. Look for opportunities to hone your skills through real-world experiences, such as internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities.

Life After College - You’ve Got This!

Transitioning to the real world after college is a transformative experience with challenges and opportunities. You can navigate this transition with confidence and resilience by embracing change, setting clear goals, and cultivating essential skills.

Know that success is not defined by a single destination but by the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As you embark on this new chapter of your life, embrace whatever comes next and trust in your ability to thrive. You can even check out the NSHSS Intern Readiness Certificate Program to help jumpstart your college-to-career transition.

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My Plans After Graduation: Pursuing a Career in Education

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What to Do after Graduation from University

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Life After Graduation

Introduction

Choosing Your Direction

1. Finding Employment

2. Creating Employment

3. Taking a Break

4. Further Study

5. Life Events

Flexible Options

Feeling Lost or Overwhelmed

Starting Out with a Debt

Unemployment

Balancing Life

Share This Book

Life After Graduation: A Beginner's Guide [2023]

What You Should Know

Introduction to Adulthood

What to Look Forward to

Wrapping Up Loose Ends

Deregister from University

Cancel your Student Loan or Allowance

Convert your Student Bank Account

Move out of Student Housing

Leaving the Netherlands?

New Commitments

House Hunting

Job Hunting

Purchasing a Vehicle

Are you a foreign national?

Taking Risks

Self-employment

Managing your Finances

Understanding Failure

Career Path Unrelated to Your Degree

Giving Up on Lifelong Dreams

Overcoming Failure

Acknowledging Who You Are

Acknowledging Your Strengths

Seeking Support

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Table of contents

How Ebooks and Audiobooks Can Reshape Your College Learning Experience

Beyond Books: Unearthing the Untold Benefits of College Radio Stations

Eco-Conscious Dorms: Student Initiatives Transforming Campus Living into Green Spaces

Yale Daily News

PERSONAL ESSAY: On Graduating in a Pandemic

Snoop Around

Toronto, Canada

What Is Life Like After Graduating?

We sat down with a few graduates one year after finishing school to get some insight on what life has been like as alumni. The good, bad and the ugly.

SPOILER ALERT: Things did not turn out as expected…

What’s something you learned after graduating that you wished you knew when you were in school?

Also, you may find yourself doing something different than your actual line of work. But this can benefit your future career! I never thought about working where I do now, but the opportunity opened my eyes to other ideas including a different way to improve my:

Are you where you thought you wanted to be? Have you changed course?

Basically, it has solidified what I truly want to do in life.

Has it been hard finding a good work-life balance?

What’s the best piece of advice you would give to someone who is about to graduate?

A few months after “officially” getting my degree, I got a job and that job was perfect for me!

Has life gone according to your master post-graduation plan?

What’s the greatest thing about no longer being a student?

What’s the worst thing about no longer being a student?

If you could go back in time and change this past year, would you?

I was really lucky.

So, I took the secure route.

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