5 College-to-Career Myths (& The Facts To Help You Transition Successfully)

Bust out the party horns and confetti. It's college graduation season.

Perhaps you're rounding out your college career or the parent of a newly minted grad (and, ahem, struggling to find the right advice to give, or not give as they transition into "real" jobs).

Since we've got so many people navigating this transition right now, it felt like an excellent time to debunk some of the most common college-to-career myths people cling to. The truth, wise grasshoppers, will set you free.

? Myth?1: I should know exactly what I want to do now

Fact: Plenty of people get to the finish line of college without a solid idea of what they want to do next. In fact, a 2022 survey conducted by Colorado State University, found that a full 17% of recent college grads had absolutely no plan for what comes next.

So, if you're in this boat of uncertainty right now, cut yourself some slack. Also, consider exploring rotational programs , which are designed to give early-career professionals the opportunity to gain experience across a range of business areas.

? Myth 2:?My entire career trajectory hinges on choosing the right first job

Fact: You've got all kinds of runway in front of you to explore, gain new skills, build your network, and reinvent along the way. Take it from me. I went to college with the express plan of being a newspaper reporter. And I was a newspaper reporter, for a hot minute. Then I was a corporate PR strategist, a marketing communications leader, a recruiter, and--finally--a career strategist and entrepreneur. And I'm here to say, it all worked out just fine.

No matter what first job you end up landing, don't sweat it. You'll take away valuable lessons and experience for your career from wherever you start.

? Myth 3: I should follow all of my parents' advice

Fact: Don't be mad at me, parents. And, I'll be the first to admit that I love it when my kids follow my sage advice. However, when it comes to career advice, it's crucial to realize that our parents, as well meaning as they surely are, may be a bit out-of-touch when it comes to navigating that first job search.

The ways of working have changed so much in recent decades and years, especially on the heels of the global pandemic. That said, if you're feeling like your parents' advice is dated, it very well may be. (And, parents: this may be a really great time to educate yourselves so you can avoid the giant eyeroll as you weigh in.)

? Myth 4:?I don't have a network of people to help me yet

Fact: You absolutely have a network already. You have friends, family, professors, classmates, parents of friends and classmates, and--importantly--an entire network of alumni who will likely be happy to support you if you take it upon yourself to reach out. (So, take it upon yourself to reach out!)

Need help? Check out "How to Ask For (& Make the Most of) an Informational Interview"

? Myth 5:?I didn't have internships so no one will hire me

Fact: You are most certainly not the first, nor will you be the last, person to get to the end of school without having landed a relevant internship. Perhaps your life circumstances made it impractical or impossible to work in a low- or non-paying internship. Maybe you switched majors several times, or spent summers traveling or playing video games. Whatever. You will find and land a job and you will gain something from the experience.

Related: Many companies offer post-graduate internships. This could provide you an amazing way to get a foot-in-the door to a company or job of interest.

Interested in more guidance as you transition from college to career?

I'll be live with Emily Burris on KOIN-TV's AM Extra show tomorrow morning (Tuesday, 5/30) at 8:05am. We'll be talking about landing your first post-graduation job. If you're in the Portland, Oregon market, tune in!

And, if you want more comprehensive help, grab a copy of our ebook, "How to Land Your First Job " (which also comes with a companion guide, "How to Help Your Kid Get a Job, Without Being That Parent") for just $19 (reg. $39) with promo code: GRADUATE.

Thanks for giving this a read. If you'd like to access more of my interviewing, job search, and professional development tips:

1. Check out? A Career Strategist's Guide to Getting a Job

This self-paced LinkedIn Learning video course will guide you through the process of creating and executing a job search strategy, from setting a target job through the interview and negotiation process. I've made it free for viewing right through?this link .

2.?Subscribe to Steer Your Career

Join me right here to receive monthly updates, actionable advice, and even members-only discounts on our products and services.

3.?Order the Book

"Do This, Not That: Career" . My first published book, this super digestible guide will help you navigate 75+ of the most formidable job search, workplace, and career growth challenges. I'm really proud of this accomplishment and would love to hear what you think!