What I’ve Realized Since Graduating College

A few months ago (wow I can’t believe it’s been that long), I graduated from college with a degree that I thought was going to be relevant to today’s society but isn’t until I get my Master’s. I always thought the major I chose was great because there are so many different directions I can go with it, but lately, I’ve been feeling like it’s also my greatest downfall.
So here I am, looking for a job. Sometimes the job search can get to you: after getting rejection after rejection, you’re not quite sure if it’s you or the job market. Honestly, you just have to keep your head up, which I know is easier said than done. I’m the worst at “relaxing,” and dealing with uncertainty.
Whenever I look at people who are my age completing their life goals and achieving so many of their dreams, I have that initial paranoia, “Okay what are you doing with your life Sandhya???” I’m in this weird place where half of my friends already have their jobs, and the other half is freaking out about the future. I, unfortunately, was in the latter half.
But I’ve realized something in the past few weeks sitting at home stressed out: not having a job is a blank slate.
I am aware that people come from different economic backgrounds and there are some situations in which you must have a job before you graduate, for example, if you are an International student and need a work visa or some other reason. But for the majority of my friends, they’re in-state students who feel like they’re falling behind in a race that actually doesn’t exist.
I’m here to give you something that actually set me free: not having a job after graduation is not the end of the world: it does not mean you are unqualified, it does not mean that you are incompetent, and it absolutely does not mean that you won’t ever get a job. I feel like everyone around me is constantly worried about the fact that they don’t have that security. I agree, having that security and that plan after graduation is fantastic, but I think we all need to remember to take a deep breath and realize it’s not a testament on ourselves, it’s just the way these things happen.
I realized, that for the first time in my life, my future wasn’t planned out for me. That used to scare me a great deal, especially because I like to plan everything, but now, the possibility that I can pursue any path I want is exhilarating.
So for now, I’m enjoying the city, enjoying my friends and family, and taking what comes my way, and hopefully soon, I’ll have a job to supplement my newfound peace :)
