So you just graduated college – now what?
From putting your resume together to interviewing and adjusting to a more professional life, leaving college can be scary for most recent grads. Some schools will prepare you for the “real world” while others will leave you guessing. Either way, we want to take this one step at a time by offering a few tips on what to expect and take care of upon graduating:
Step 1: Be mindful with an open mind
While it helps to have a vision of what you want your next step to be, do not panic and think: I have no idea what I want to do in life. Chances are you won’t find that out right away, and perhaps not for a while. You are an ever-evolving individual – always growing. Where do you want your first step to be? If you graduated with a degree in Engineering, think of the possibilities and choose a path that feels good right now.
Step 2: Understand things take time
Not everyone lands a job right after graduation. Finding employment isn’t easy for most people. It takes work and can be time-consuming. Consult a career coach if you find you need further assistance with your job search or are having difficulty finding the right path – but please, do not think you are alone when counting the clock.
Step 3: Craft your resume
Crafting your resume isn’t something that happens overnight, and it’s not something that all colleges prepare you for. Find the right online resources or consult with a friend, family member, or career coach – all of these can help you fine-tune your resume to help you achieve your passions and goals.
Step 4: Start entry level
You know what they say: you have to start from the ground, up. While this isn’t always the case, most recent grads will search for entry level positions to help them “get their foot in the door”. Don’t feel turned away by entry level – they are excellent learning experiences that can lead to growth. Ask the company how much growth is possible to help you narrow down your options.
Step 5: Prepare for the extra steps
Recent grads admit that college didn’t completely prepare them for the “real world”. That said, it’s important to keep these elements in mind:
- Dealing with different people and personalities
- Learning personal finances and budgeting
- Balancing working and life
- Job-hunting for the right position
From finding passions to coping with the transition from college to work, you might benefit from consulting in a career and life coach. As we said, for some it can be easy – for others it can be a huge, scary transition. Don’t panic! Debra Solomon, Asperger’s and autism life and career coach helps young adults with autism and other learning disabilities identify their strengths and weaknesses to help find a job that best fits them! For more information about Debra Solomon’s coaching practice, visit her on the web.
