Transitions: Got my degree - What's next?

I had a conversation with a stylist at the salon today. Her daughter graduated last spring with a degree in Public Relations. What should have been a time of excitement for this young lady had become a period of angst. On top of graduating during a global pandemic, she suddenly realized she had no desire to be employed in public relations. In fact, she was not even sure why she chose to major in public relations. Her parents didn’t know how to help her as they witnessed her panic attacks and decision-making paralysis.

I’m willing to bet there are hundreds, if not thousands, of recent or soon-to-be college graduates who are echoing this same type of sentiment. Students are just 17 or 18 years old when they start college and are asked to make monumental decisions about a major and future career. About 20 percent choose to start as “undeclared” and give themselves a couple of semesters to try different classes and attain a little more life experience. One-third of all college students will change their major at least once.

If you know a young adult facing this predicament, I have a few suggestions for how to help them through this transition:

1.    Reassurance – The number one thing we should do to help the transitioning student is assuring him/her that there are many new graduates who feel exactly the same way. We can share with them that many Americans are currently working in a career not even slightly related to their degree. And you know what? That’s okay! Provide examples of family and friends who are among this population.

2.    Research – As the saying goes, “We don’t know what we don’t know.” Perhaps the graduate had chosen their major based on one particular career outcome. In reality, any major can lead to many different career outcomes. By searching “What can I do with a major in ____”, the graduate will see a list of possibilities they may have never even considered.

3.    Internships and Volunteerism – There’s no rule that says you can’t do an internship or become a volunteer somewhere immediately after graduation. Becoming an intern or volunteer in a field of interest has tremendous advantages. What better way to determine if a career is a potential fit?

4.    Part-time employment – Much like an internship, part-time employment is a great way to find out if a particular industry or career is of interest.

5.    Career Coach / Life Coach – Engaging with a career or life coach can be a game-changer. Coaches are there to provide guidance to clients during periods of transition. The client creates an action plan and learns new skills, such as decision-making and goal-setting. The coach provides direction and motivation along the way.

The years immediately after college graduation should be filled with excitement and promise, not a time of apprehension. Fortunately, the young lady mentioned in my story is currently working with a coach. She’s learning how to create a future that is in alignment with her interests, skills, and values, and she’s moving forward with confidence. As parents, mentors, faculty, and career services staff, it’s our job to support and guide them. We should assure them that no decision is final and with time and a bit of effort on their part, they will figure everything out.