The Post-Graduation Wind of Change

Photo Courtesy of Pixar

Recently some of my college friends threw their graduation cap into the air, successfully completing their degrees. Many are faced with a wonderful yet uncertain change of season, where for the first time, they are no longer considered students. I have come to notice that there are multiple ways in which they have been engulfed by this wind of change, adulthood, and emotions. Many are overwhelmed by it, while others are excited because their dream job is closer to reality. As someone who has faced many changes in life and as an upcoming senior who will face the Post-Graduation Wind soon, I want to share a piece of wisdom on embracing change and the sea of emotions that come with it. I hope my friends and near-future self will benefit from it.

Part of being alive is going through multiple stages of change: that season of waiting when moving to a new school as a child, transitioning from high school to college, and finally moving on from being a college student to a working adult. Life changes are the only constant, some harder than others. However, what they all have in common is there is a continuous sense of waiting and longing. I am not talking about a looking-at-the-watch type of wait;  I am referring to the preparation process involved in the bigger scheme of things. Wait can be exciting, dreadful, sad, or all of the above. Nonetheless, it is a unique experience for each individual, and everyone should approach it how they consider it best.

This transitional, post-graduation state is an essential internal training process when faced with something new. Waiting can be an excellent opportunity to embrace one’s strengths and explore what one would want to do in the next chapter. It is the perfect time to utilize skills learned in school and reflect on whether or not entering the industry is the right decision or if one would instead pursue something different.

I am aware that there is a factor that makes the process much more complicated than it seems: bills, bills, and bills. Money is a significant stress factor in this change process and something I worry a lot about myself. Finances are an inevitable obstacle we all have to face because we obviously need money to live. Lack of money after college can be an obstacle to plans if you do not find a job right after school. However, taking it one step at a time can make it manageable. Ask yourself, “ What can I do now to solve my financial situation?” Whether it is a part-time job outside your field while you find the right fit, selling your car and relying on public transportation, or maybe even having to live with your parents for a little bit until you can get out of the financial hardships, baby steps and sacrifices will eventually lead you to the outcome you desire. It is better to do something about it than let the “money thoughts” drown you out. Every problem has a solution, and although it is easier said than done, it is definitely worth it to gain that life you wish for.

We all may feel pressured about this season. One may feel as if there are many expectations from society, particularly a capitalist one. However, the only expectation or opinion that matters is your own. Whether you get a part-time job, the job of your dreams, an internship, go into graduate school, or choose to take a break and meditate on your next move, remember that every decision is valid. You will learn something from it, whether a success or a lesson. They are both equally valuable, and you should embrace this process no matter what your family, friends, or society say. I am not saying to shut them down or ignore any valuable advice they have to give, but in the end, the decision should be yours. Therefore, take this post-graduation temporary period to learn to lower the noise and listen to the authentic voice within you. Remember that you are not alone in this process. All forms of guidance are available; recognize them, and seize every opportunity.

Lastly, a big piece of advice I would like to share with you, particularly myself, as I write this, is that as important as it is to embrace this change process, so is the patience you embrace. As someone who is a perfectionist and, thus, hard on myself, I constantly try to jump to my next move. As I am slowly learning to do this myself, I want to encourage you to be patient with yourself as you face this wind of change. Learn how to enjoy the process and watch yourself grow. Be proud of the wins and times you must fall to learn to be stronger. Be thankful for the path you are on, along with the people that help you take it. Being grateful for this experience, yourself, and the people around you will fill your life with joy. No matter how hard the Post-Graduation Wind of Change may be, everything will be okay.