Advice for graduating seniors

Graduation can be exciting but extremely stressful at the same time. As you step into the real world, you go through many life transitions. Graduating senior Aashna provides some advice to navigate through them:

1. Take a deep breath and reflect

You’re about to go into a new and important phase of your life. Maybe you’re starting your first big job or traveling the world. Maybe you’re starting your own business or continuing your education. These are crucial moments that you don’t want to miss! Think about your time in college and how you’re going to cherish the memories, and all the lessons you learned through your experiences.

2. Make a bucket list with your friends

In these last 2 months before graduation, make a list of all the places and things on campus that you want to do one last time: take a picture with the Alma Mater, go axe throwing at the Axe Bar, take a stroll at Japan House, or go to a show at the Canopy Club or other venues in the area. Don’t miss these last few opportunities before you leave:(

3. Create your own mission and vision

In most job interviews they always ask: where do you see yourself in the next five or ten years? Although it’s daunting to hear this question, it’s important to think about what you truly want out of life. Ultimately, what do you want to achieve that will make you happy? This doesn’t mean you need to have a well-set out plan for the rest of your life, but deciding your mission and vision will help you set daily goals.

4. Try something new on campus

This is your time to be spontaneous and do something you would never do—go ice skating, or join that club you always wanted to be a part of but never had time for. Maybe try a new cuisine—with all the options for food on and off campus, the options are almost endless. This is the best time to discover more about yourself and your friends.

5. Learn how to budget

As you become an adult, tracking your spending can ensure that you don’t end up spending all your money very quickly. With big paychecks, learning about 401(k)s, emergency funds, investments and more, will prepare you for life.

6. Embrace the uncertainty

Not having things figured out is completely normal. As you go through life, you may experience many uncertainties. Maybe you don’t like your job, or you have to move to another city—or you want to change your career path altogether. It is all a part of your journey. Don’t be afraid of change—embrace it.

7. Keep networking

You might have heard this a lot but making connections can help you in ways you didn’t anticipate before. The University of Illinois alumni network is huge—take advantage of it while you can! Attend alumni events, connect with alumni on LinkedIn and reach out to them for advice.

 

Soon, you’re going to achieve a huge milestone: graduation. Pat yourself on the back and be proud of how you got here, including your successes, triumphs, and even the setbacks and detours. Congrats, grad. You made it!