Congratulations! You made it through four exhausting years of tests, papers, bad decisions, all-nighters and much more. Now it’s time to buckle down and start thinking of what you want to do with your life after graduation. Who are we kidding, we all know that this dilemma crosses your mind daily and causes you to have constant stress and anxiety.
Well, you can wipe the sweat and tears off your face because one thing I will not be telling you is to go headfirst in finding a full-time job directly after graduation. Although many people have success with it, there are other options out there to think about! Luckily for you, I compiled some alternative options for your post-college plans:
1. Travel
Everyone says it, but not everyone does it! Traveling the world or just the country can give you so much life experience that college (or even a job) can’t give you. Taking some time to explore and endure other cultures can be a nice way to debrief from the non-stop hustle and bustle that is college. If you’re unsure about some cheap and exciting travel locations, check out this Bustle article that may lead you down the right path! Plus, when will you ever have this much guilt-free spare time again?
2. More school
At this point you’re probably tired of school, but if you have reconsidered your desired career path or you just want to gather some more knowledge, going to graduate school or some form of higher education might be your best option. Plus, with the addition of your second degree, you have a higher chance of getting paid more in the long-run!
3. Volunteer
You’re just out of college and you have no idea what to do next. Volunteering is a great way for you to help make the world a better place, while also benefiting yourself a little along the way. Volunteer numbers have been decreasing over the past couple of years in the U.S., making volunteering even more vital. In efforts to making the world a better place, volunteering can also help build your resume, give you a new outlook on life and help you find inspiration for your future.
4. Work part-time or freelance
If you’re looking to make money, but are hesitant about starting a full-time job, maybe working part-time or freelancing is something to consider. There’s nothing wrong with getting a part-time job doing something you love to help gather up some funds. On that note, freelancing is also a great way to make some money on your own terms while also doing what you’re good at and showing off your skills!
5. Get an internship
Being an intern after graduation is a great way to get your feet wet in the professional world. You can gain valuable experience, make connections and also discover what you like or don’t like in a future job. Not to mention, internships look great on your resume and can often lead to full-time jobs if you’re lucky!
6. Take risks
This can apply to anyone and everyone who has recently graduated college. You can learn a lot about yourself just by having fun and making mistakes. Take this odd period after graduation to do things you’ve never had time to do while in school. People always talk about the “real world” as simply being a professional or being a full-time adult, but I’d like to think the real world is just what you decide to do with your life and how to find your path on your own.
“Do what you love, not what you think you’re supposed to do.”
No matter what you choose to do after college, just remember that there is no right or wrong choice. As cheesy as it is, do what’s best for YOU! Eventually you’ll end up where you’re meant to be, right?