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Post Graduation Syndrome

A popular question that university seniors can attest to hearing is “what are your plans after graduation.” Although a popular question, the rehearsed answer for many students is usually far from the truth..

 

Students don’t want to face the fact that post-graduation preparation requires pre-graduation research and follow-ups.

 

There are numerous opportunities available today, that weren’t available in past generations, and I still feel a bit of anxiety because I know that I have to make a choice.

It’s tough to imagine life without a list of classes to choose from, overrides for additional openings in classes, meal plans, and campus housing.

 

Reality is a tough cookie to swallow, in just a few short weeks; I’ll be booted out of undergrad with an “approved for the real world” banner (my diploma) and forced into a life that quite frankly I’m not sure I’m prepared for.

 

Sure, I’ve done well in my classes, and I’ve enjoyed a lot of experiences, I’ve had a few internships and I’ve done some networking at Career Fairs, but I’m just not sure if I’m ready to make a decision today that will impact the rest of my life, at least that’s what people expect you to do. We are expected to have this master plan. Where do we plan to be in three years? Five years? etc. Many days go by when I’m not sure what I’ll do with in the next three hours, so asking me to map out my plans 1,095 days from now is quite absurd.

 

College definitely spoils you. It’s like the silver spoon syndrome. The university is like a crutch is many ways, we’ll give you money just pay us back later, we’ll cover your meals but when you leave we’ll need that money back, of course we’ll provide shelter but you have to move out after graduation -my point is there are so many incentives which are often taken for granted and as my tenure as a college undergrad comes to an end, I’m learning to appreciate the small things.

 

Graduation, I can only imagine the freedom it will encompass but I can also imagine the anxiety it may create. Not knowing what’s next, fear of choosing a career that I will absolutely regret or paying for additional schooling to delay the “real world.”

 

I applaud students who are secure in their plans and goals after graduation. Many students have mapped out the, who, what, when, where and hows of their future. But what should students do when their passions such as singing, cooking, or caring for pets does not promise a secure career.  Should we focus on one passion at a time or find ways to fulfill one or two at a time?

 

So many questions, so much to do, so little time-class of 2006, good luck!