Just my view on things…
Thinking of college can bring several ideas to mind. For one thing, it’s a total blast and a priceless moment in a young person’s life. It’s a time to grow, a time to have fun, make friends, become further educated and find true meaning of one’s self. I often stumble and tumble in my life, searching for a deeper meaning. I often ask, “What’s the point?…Does God have a plan for me?…How does it all turn out in the end?…and most importantly, will I get a job?”
At the same time, college can be one of the most stressful parts of a young adult’s life. Making life-altering decisions at 22 years old seems insane to me, but who really knows. Am I ready?
Maybe life after college isn’t so bad. Who could hate making money and becoming apart of society! While I have enjoyed my youth, living on my dad’s dollar, and not having to worry about bills, I do think entering into the “adult world” will be a good thing.
Think about it, you will finally be taken seriously due to the credibility that a degree can bring. I can think of countless times over the years that I’ve come up with an idea to do something, but no one took it seriously (probably due to my age). Now, at 22, and almost completing my degree in four years at a university, I can see things more clearly. Coming into adulthood can truly put things in perspective.
On the other hand, it has been superb enjoying this special time in my life. I am truly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had provided by my parent’s support and love. Getting an education is one of the most important things in a person’s life. You may lose loved ones in life, your possessions and other trivial things, but no one can take your education away from you. It is something that I truly appreciate and cherish. That alone has brought deeper meaning and understanding of this wild world to my life.
Still, I along with many others pray that the job searching aspect after college won’t be such a pain. With the ongoing recession worldwide, it’s chilling to think that many people in our country are being laid off, jobs cut and unable to find work.
My advice to my fellow 2011 college graduates: define your goals, don’t be ashamed to move back in with mom and dad, size up your expenses and debt, and most importantly, just get a job! It is best to always remember not to be too hard on yourself either.
I’m realizing now that you’ve got to take the good with the bad, be willing to try things you never thought you could try or do before, push yourself to the limit, and believe that hard work will eventually pay off one day.
My father has always told me since I was a little girl, “the harder your work, the longer you wait, the greater the reward!” Given my somewhat optimistic view on life, I think that’s true.
In the meantime, just sit back, relax, and enjoy the rollercoaster of life. It may be a bumpy ride, but in the end, it will be worth it.
Ciera Ouellette 