There are just 54 days until my graduation, and for the last six months, I have kept getting asked the same dreaded question: “What are your plans after graduation?” I understand that some people asking this question may just be trying to make small talk, and others may be genuinely curious, but I wish that in either case, everyone would stop asking. It may seem like a lighthearted question, but it actually stresses me out and sends me into a spiral. All things considered, I’m sure others can relate.
For the last 17 years, I have focused on being a student. Attending class, completing readings and turning in assignments has been a crucial part of my daily routine for nearly two decades. The idea that I will no longer be doing those tasks seems crazy to me. What will I do with all of my free time? Even more importantly, what will I be doing for a career? That’s what all this work has been for, right? Throughout the time I’ve been in school, you would think I would’ve figured out what I want to do post-graduation. Well, I haven’t. I have narrowed it down, but my path isn’t clear cut.
Nowadays, there’s a variety of options for what to do after graduation. As a journalism student, I could apply for entry-level reporter positions right out of college. I could pursue broadcast, print or even radio jobs. I could also complete an internship for more experience, before committing to a specific path. These ideas apply to many other students, who are deciding between seeking more experience, joining the field right away or taking some time to research. As I attempt to make my decision, I find myself asking, “Is that something I really want to do?”
On top of actually making the decision, there’s also the task of actually finding a job. Many of the jobs hiring right now want the position filled immediately, so it feels like a waste of time applying before I graduate. I still want to enjoy my time as a student, since I might not have the same opportunities in a few months. I simply want to enjoy my time in school without being reminded of the daunting task of finding work.
When someone asks me my plans after graduation, these are all the things that run through my head. Rather than lying, I simply say, “I’m not sure, I’m just going to see what opportunities are available when the time comes,” because that’s the truth. Who knows what will come along in the next two months? Hopefully some clarity.
So all of this is to say, please don’t ask a soon-to-be college graduate what their post-grad plans are. Give us time to enjoy the rest of school. Let us ponder the unknown in peace. Don’t cause stress by making us declare a path. It will be appreciated. To those in shoes like mine, you’re not alone, and we do in fact have time. What’s meant to be will be.
