I Made It Out of College Alive! ...Now what do I do?

Woo-hoo! I finally did it!! It took me four years (and a couple of summer classes) but I finally graduated from college on May 21, 2009. I felt a surge of joy as I went to graduation and spent over 3 hours in the sun, just to receive a certificate from the RU Alumni Committee. Totally worth my time (I'm being sarcastic.) Anyways, I'm super happy I'm done with school, but now I have more problems to deal with....like getting a job/the uncertainty of my future. I know I am not the only one in this predicament: new college graduate, no job offers yet, moving in with the parents, and friends moving all over the place, but there are ways to survive it. Here are my tips for surviving post-graduation and pre-getting a job:

1. Worrying will get you no where. It's hard not to stress out over not having a job, but there's no point in doing it. Stressing out will just lead to a pessimistic attitude, and will, more likely, hinder your job search. We graduated in a very bad time, but we have to realize that this is not our fault and we cannot control how the economy is going to be like. We just need to roll with the punches and apply to every single job you find interesting.

2. Since you're not doing anything now, start a new hobby or reconnect with an old one. One of the worst parts of not working is the feeling of uselessness and boredom that accompanies it. And the best way to combat the idle feelings is to start doing something! It can be anything from reading books you have always wanted to read to taking music lessons. This is a perfect time to do an activity you didn't have the time to do before. You'll feel productive doing it and you never know - it could lead to a new direction to your life.

3. Help out around the house. If you're like me and had to move back home with the parents, then you should really try to help with things around the house. It's the least you can do after all the money, time, and dedication your parent's gave to you. I know that I may sound like a suck up for talking like this, but you really owe your parents a lot. Also, you'll feel great knowing that you're helping out. So, go ahead, and wash the dishes, make a meal, or vacuum the house.


I can't really think of other tips (It's dinner time and I have food on my mind right now), but when I do, I'll add them on. And if you have suggestions, feel free to comment!