After Graduation

Photo Credit: ESU Flickr

Veronica Ruoff

Social Media Manager

As graduation is approaching that all has us thinking: What is next? Graduation should be a celebratory time and something you will remember forever. Not knowing what is coming after that can cloud that celebration.

As someone still unsure where life will take me, I can attest that graduation is starting to worry me. While some friends are staying to continue their education or while others are going out into the world to begin their new journey, the question is… Where does that leave me? If you feel the same way, after reading this, I hope it can give you peace of mind.

Everyone has options for after college; at ESU we have many different resources and centers to help guide you before entering the world. Career and Workforce Center is an on-campus help center with tools to help you after graduation or during your undergrad. They can help in many ways including resume help, internships, choosing a path or direction, locating a job, or job search. Although we may think there are few resources, it is essential to know that ESU wants us to succeed and use our education after graduation.

ESU’s website explains, “Services include: coaching, interview preparation, job and internship search techniques, networking tips and hiring trends.” The Career Center is located in the University center on the second floor. Along with these services and research of your own, you have to trust that the right thing will come along and remember to put yourself out there.

Here are some more facts to ease your mind: CBS News states, “More than half of Americans who earned college diplomas find themselves working in jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree or utilize the skills acquired in obtaining one.” This does not mean you should not try to get your dream job or use your degree; this is just a fact that may ease your mind if you are not finding or achieving your job right away.

University of the People states, “If you’re nearing graduation and wondering, “What percentage of college students get a job after they graduate?” then the good news is that 72.3% of all college graduates in the U.S. are employed.” That is good news for students who are worried about finding a job. The statistics are in your favor!

With these services and facts under your belt, I hope graduation becomes less scary, and you can enjoy the time now. These worries are something every current student, alums, and high school student has gone through or eventually will. The time is now to soak in all that ESU offers and the friends and family around you.

Congratulations on the most significant moment of your life so far and get excited for what is ahead. Congratulations, Class of 2024! Finish Strong!