Curious of what other recent grads go through after walking across the stage? Here we have the story and encouragements from Kirra Vargas, as class of 2023 journalism grad from Cal Poly, SLO.
It’s the day I’ve eagerly anticipated since my childhood, a feeling that’s truly indescribable, and a title coveted by everyone in our society: to demonstrate that all my hard work and those countless late nights were indeed worth it. Finally, I can proudly declare, “I’m a college graduate.”
It’s the day I’ve eagerly anticipated since my childhood, a feeling that’s truly indescribable, and a title coveted by everyone in our society: to demonstrate that all my hard work and those countless late nights were indeed worth it. Finally, I can proudly declare, “I’m a college graduate.”
Instantly, thoughts and excitement surged within me as I whispered to myself, “Here’s to the next steps of my life, a new path of self-discovery.”
But What Are Those Next Steps?
The questions kept coming over the next few months. “Am I lagging behind other people who have already lined up jobs?” “My best friend has relocated to a new place; should I have done the same by now?” “Is this the right career path for me?” “I haven’t made new friends since moving here; what should I do?” These are just a few of the many questions that plague us in our twenties, making us wonder if we are falling behind.
The truth is, it’s entirely normal to feel this way in our twenties.
This is the first time in our lives when we have the freedom to go anywhere and do anything. We’ve grown up in a structured environment: go to college, graduate, establish a career, move to a new place, find a partner, and so on. It’s only natural to feel apprehensive because, in a way, we’re embarking on a new path filled with endless possibilities, and that can be intimidating for anyone.
Yes, This New Path Can Be Very Overwhelming
It’s the first time we lack a clear structure or set schedule of what to do, and the world is brimming with possibilities as we step into early adulthood. However, what’s intriguing is that we often fail to realize that we all share this feeling of uncertainty. We can embrace it and venture into this uncharted world of possibilities together.
Here are some steps you can take on this new journey:
Explore New Experiences:
Yes, This New Path Can Be Very Overwhelming
It’s the first time we lack a clear structure or set schedule of what to do, and the world is brimming with possibilities as we step into early adulthood. However, what’s intriguing is that we often fail to realize that we all share this feeling of uncertainty. We can embrace it and venture into this uncharted world of possibilities together.
Here are some steps you can take on this new journey:
Explore New Experiences:
Take the opportunity to try as many new things as possible. It’s the first time when exams and homework are no longer obstacles. Go out there and pursue the activities you’ve always dreamed of but never had the time for. This is an excellent way to discover and uncover new aspects of yourself, as growth and self-discovery are natural parts of this phase of life.
Embrace the Unknown:
Embrace the Unknown:
Yes, this feeling can be overwhelming, and at times, you might find yourself second-guessing your choices or experiencing “FOMO” due to social media. Trust me, I’ve been there too. But remember, we all share this experience of the “unknown.” It’s something we should embrace and savor every moment of.
So, the next time you feel stuck and overwhelmed, believing you’re falling behind, remember that it’s perfectly okay to feel this way. Instead, embrace this time as an opportunity for growth, exploration, and self-discovery. Trust that everything will unfold as it should.
So, the next time you feel stuck and overwhelmed, believing you’re falling behind, remember that it’s perfectly okay to feel this way. Instead, embrace this time as an opportunity for growth, exploration, and self-discovery. Trust that everything will unfold as it should.
