Rilwan Ameen, Sports Editor
As a graduating senior, one comes to the point in their college career where they are faced with the question: What are you going to do after graduation?
When I think of this question, I think of a difficult transition that horrifies most people: adulthood.
If you are going to be getting your diploma in t-minus 89 days, 12 hours, 36 minutes and 27 seconds (yes I am counting) it’s an exciting time. It’s also a time when your family, peers, professors and counselors are more curious about your intentions than ever.
In addition, if you have an overachieving friend or family member around you, you may be experiencing unwarranted stress and anxiety. You know the family member/friend I’m talking about? They are the ones that were accepted into a more prestigious college than you, spent numerous summers as an intern for a major corporation, and recieves acceptances from graduate schools you could only dream of getting into. Being compared to them is nothing new.
As a graduating senior, embrace your freedom! Up until now you’ve had your entire life planned for you. The world is now at your fingertips. Tell a family member that you’re just going to go with the flow and are seriously thinking through all of your options (even if you currently don’t have any, that’s fine as well). Say you’re in no rush to be sitting behind a desk when you’re only 21-years-old. You’ll be surprised at how many tell you, they wish they were in your shoes.
Whatever your answer is to the devious question: “What are you doing after graduation?” — it must be answered in a manner that shows confidence but also reassures the notion that you know what’s in store for you. Don’t let your people know you are totally clueless and scared about the future. As long as you sound like you have a plan, they, too, will think you have one. Showing confidence is key.
Whatever you do, don’t get caught up in what others around you are doing or have planned. To each its own, and by that I mean you probably are not the only one without concrete future plans. Who really graduates from college these days and actually has a job lined up? Don’t feel down about your situation.
Just remember, all’s well that ends well, and despite the fact that you may not want want to spend any more time discussing the future, that inevitable day will come. Just think back to when you were a kid, live a little, build sand castles and relive the good old days; happy thoughts will make facing the prospect of life after college a less daunting task and you will be ready to tackle it head-on.
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