What I Wish I Knew as a New Grad

by Rakshitha Arni Ravishankar, Associate Editor

A few years ago, I moved to the U.S. for higher education. At the time, I thought I knew exactly what I wanted: I imagined that I’d become a news reporter, work with a reputed global media organization, and fall in love with New York City.

Fast forward to graduation: I didn’t have any job offers in hand, I didn’t like living in the city, and I wasn’t even sure I wanted to be a journalist anymore. Soon I would have to start repaying my student loans, move out of university housing, find my own place, and submit the last of all my assignments.

It wasn’t only stressful — it felt impossible. The hardest part was finding the motivation to get through the grueling job search. In school, I had spent more than six months applying to every opening I could find. I even emailed each recruiter I met at career fairs without success. It took me around two months after graduation to land a full-time role.

Looking back, I realize that a lot of the pressure I felt through that transition was self-imposed. I had a very narrow vision about who I thought I could be, the kind of work I would enjoy doing, and the things that brought me joy.

Five years later, my career goals look different. I’m a writer and editor, something I stumbled upon as I tried out different paths. I moved back to India because I wanted to live closer to my family and loved ones. I now want to work in environments that are more collaborative than competitive. ?

My biggest learning? I don’t have everything figured out and I don’t need to. Letting go of the pressure I used to put on myself has changed everything.

The truth is: It’s going to take time to figure out what you want, why you want it, and realize your goals — which, by the way, will continue to change.

No matter what path you choose, there is no right or wrong way to make decisions about your career. Whether you're starting a full-time role, taking a gap year, going to graduate school, or still exploring, it’s important that you grant yourself the space to experiment, change your mind, make mistakes, learn, and grow along the way. If you’re doing that, then you’re succeeding. As you move forward, trust your instincts, and give yourself the grace you deserve.

Here's an article that I recommend for you: What New Grads Need to Know About Working Remotely by Lia Garvin.

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