Graduation season is around the corner and many students are preparing to celebrate their accomplishments while preparing for the future.
The future is uncertain for all of us and for graduating students, the unknown can be scary.
“I have plans for what I want to do and where I want to be, but I just fear none of it will happen,” said Alice Tikoibau, fourth year sociology major.
The fact that there are multiple options and possibilities in life after college is “jarring,” as Tikoibau puts it.
“I am excited about finishing undergrad, but it’s one of those things where now anything can happen.”
One way students have been combating this fear is by doing what they can do to prepare for life post-graduation while being present in the now.
Khanh Dao, fourth year communications student says she is making the most of her final months at SSU by being productive. “I try to work as hard as I can to finish strong and also, soak up the college life.”
Like many college seniors, Dao and Tikoibau are searching for jobs using the resources and connections they have made at SSU.
“I’m trying to build my resume, create connections with faculty, staff and people in the industry I’m interested in…I’m in the process of narrowing down exactly what I want to do,” said Dao.
“I’ve been looking for jobs that I’m genuinely interested in and applying for them.” Said Tikoibau.
During this stressful time, it is important for students to know that they are not alone and that there are resources available that will help them.
The career center is a great resource to take advantage of before graduating. Students can explore careers while tailoring their resume with the help of the staff at the career center.
In addition to preparing resumes, living in the present is also important for graduating college students. Becoming consumed by the future is not only destructive for mental health, but it also is counter productive.
Ed Halliwell, a mindfulness instructor explained, “Being present and exerting our ability to be mindful not only makes us happier, it can also help us deal with pain more effectively, reduce our stress and decrease its impact on our health, and improve our ability to cope with negative emotions like fear and anger.”
Tikoibau states that one way they have been managing their stress is by grabbing coffee with a friend.
“We discuss our last semester, post-grad, and anything else that comes to mind so that’s one of those stress-free moments I look forward to,” said Tikoibau.
Living in the moment during the final months of college will help students deal with their fears and stress more effectively. We are able to accomplish more when our minds are in the present rather than the future or past.
While no one can predict the future, what students can do is deal with these challenges one day at a time.
“No one is prepared, but you’ve got to start somewhere,” stated Dao.
