Seven To Do’s for Post-Grad Life
Whether you’re walking across the stage this December or in 2023, thinking about life after graduation can sometimes seem overwhelming. So many decisions, doors, and destinations are on the horizon. Here, you’ll find seven simple to do’s along with advice from past Bluefield College alumni that can help you confidently start your venture into the real world.
1. Stay in Touch
No matter how far the distance, make an effort to remain connected to your friends. These people have been with you on your “Sunday night test crunch” worst and have celebrated your many victories. Don’t forget to continue to support them in their ventures, as well. Knowing we have people in our corners to encourage us will serve as fuel for the future.
2. Remain Optimistic
Don’t become disheartened if you don’t get your dream job right away. Continue to have a positive attitude moving forward. Pair your optimism with action and keep working toward your goals, even if it’s one small step at a time.
“Be positive, principled, pro-active, and productive throughout your journey once you graduate,” said alumnus Nathan Cline. “Develop a healthy lifestyle and abide by that. Don’t fall into bad habits.”
“Keep an optimistic view of the world after college,” said alumna Laura Kincer. “You give yourself a greater chance to find something you love whether it was expected or not.”
3. Make Connections
Be intentional about connecting with individuals who have experience in your field. These relationships can serve you in ways you may not expect in the future. Do internships, go to networking events, or simply ask questions and gain expertise from those you’ve already connected with.
“Don’t wait until you graduate to start networking and making opportunities for yourself,” said Kincer. “The earlier you introduce yourself to prospective parties, the better your chances are to be remembered.”
“Networking plus resilience equals success,” said Cline. “It won’t be easy at first, but you have to start somewhere. This is just the first step on the stairwell, so don’t give up; know the best is yet to come.”
4. Create Space for the Unexpected
Sometimes our plans just don’t work out, and that’s okay. Allow space for the unexpected and continue to prayerfully prepare and plan. Save money, take multiple job interviews, and continuously sharpen your knowledge and skills for what may be right around the corner. Whether an opportunity ends up as a doorway into your future or a complete disappointment, stay patient and expectant.
“Don’t get discouraged when something you really want doesn’t pan out for you,” said Cline. “That situation just opens up doors to other opportunities.”
“A lot of times your plans can change,” said alumna Nicole Benedito. “My advice is be ready. Be ready for everything, because nothing is lost. Sometimes you think ‘I don’t know why I am dedicating my time and my learning for this,’ but you have to see the bigger picture, because eventually you will use your knowledge for something good in the future.”
5. Embrace Uncertainty
Post-graduate life is full of unknowns. How we deal with them is such a significant part of the process. It’s okay if your next step is a little uncertain. Don’t put pressure on yourself to have it all mapped out perfectly. Leave some room for growth, discovery, and risk as you move forward.
“There will be times of uncertainty when you feel completely lost,” said alumna Paloma Sánchez, “but that shouldn’t be a reason to give up. Stay strong, and always believe in yourself.”
“Do the things that make you feel uncomfortable and build a tolerance to it,” said alumna Brienna Yesbeck. “In the end, you’ll have the confidence to tackle anything that comes in your way.”
6. Have Vision for the Future
Vision for your future is needed to accomplish your goals and ultimately fulfill your God-given purpose. It not only includes planning ahead, but also staying deeply committed to what is ahead. Don’t let disappointments or the pressures of post-grad life affect your passion. Root yourself in what is presently in front of you, while remaining steadfast in pursuit of the future.
“Surround yourself with people that impact you in a positive way,” said Kincer. “Remember work is not all life is about. Remember to relax, enjoy the little moments, and to do something every day that makes you happy.”
“Locate mentors who lead your desired lifestyle, and ask for help when you’re uncertain of your own plans,” said Cline. “Develop good time-management habits early on. Your workload will only increase with time and so will your responsibilities. Be ready when they do.”
“I believe that people put pressure when it comes to becoming an adult, and it’s not easy, but it’s an important moment of growth,” said Benedito. “After graduating is the perfect time for that. We are all young and full of hope. Let’s say ‘yes’ to the challenge and focus on the good things that will come out of it. I am living this moment right now, and I am enjoying it. I choose to be happy and to live through the difficult times with happiness and understand that God is preparing me for something better. He is faithful, and He sees our effort.”
7. Trust and Pray
We simply cannot foretell our futures or know exactly what will happen beyond graduation. Our plans may fail or succeed with greatness. We may be job ensured before we leave campus or still searching. Nonetheless, we can choose to entrust our futures to God, who holds them securely, and pray through every step and decision that awaits.
“Just trust in God,” said Benedito. “All you can do for yourself is give your best, and the rest He will take care of. A lot of times we think we know what’s best for us, but we have to remember that we are humans and our heart is not trustable, but God is.”