It may seem like everyone else has it all figured out, and you are undoubtedly tired of the question "What will you do after graduation?" But, if your plans are not yet set, be assured you are not the first or last to be in this situation.
Whether you're a new high school grad who isn't sure about college or you've finished a college degree but haven't been able to land the job you want, here are some suggestions for what to do until you're able to take the next big step:
Keep Working Toward Your Goals
Don't let inertia or rejection take over your attitude. Continue working on ways to improve your chances of getting the job you want or being admitted to your desired college.
- Continue to send out resumes or explore education options.
- Work on your soft skills, like communication techniques, teamwork, initiative and creative thinking.
- Review your resume and practice interviews with a professional.
- Clean up social media accounts.
Volunteer
Opportunities abound to provide service to those who need it. Check out volunteer options that help you expand your horizons and suit your interests. Many volunteer opportunity and matching sites are available online, including:
- Createthegood.org
- Dosomething.org
- Unitedway.org
- Volunteer.gov
- Volunteermatch.org
Work
You may have student loans to repay or other expenses, so consider working even if you haven't found an ideal job. You can:
- Work one or more part-time jobs that provide skills related to your career choice.
- Try out a type of career you haven't previously considered.
- Provide freelance or consulting services in a field you have knowledge in.
- Start your own company.
- Teach something you have a passion for, such as yoga, skiing or beginning coding.
Take a Short-Term Position
Although many opportunities are designed strictly for current college students, you may be able to find paid or unpaid positions.
- Find an internship related to your degree or in a completely different field you'd like to try out.
- Apprenticeships may be available to recent college graduates and can offer a good chance to break into a specific job market.
- Research assistantships are available in both scientific and non-scientific fields.
Get a Degree
Even if you've already earned a college degree, you may want to continue your education if you have the funds and time.
- Retrain in a different major or field.
- Take continuing education classes.
- Go back to school to get an advanced degree.
Have an Adventure
An adventure may be best experienced while you don't have too many other obligations. Options are limited only by your imagination and come with varying levels of risk and financial commitment.
- Fix up a house.
- Audition for a reality show.
- Take a commercial fishing job.
- Become a roadie for a band on tour.
