What to Expect After College — Advice from an Alumna

As graduation looms closer, the question on a lot of graduating seniors minds is a glaring red, ‘What’s next?’ And the truth is, it will be different for each and every one of you; no two post-graduate journeys look the same. The next few months may be harder than you expected, but remember, we’re always here to help. In case you’re in need of some friendly, pre-graduation advice, here are a few strategies and sentiments that guided me—Chloe Bell ‘15—through the weird and wonky days of being a fresh college graduate.

Dream jobs change & shift

Me and one of my first collaborators at Chatham, a penguin from the National Aviary

When I graduated college six years ago, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to be a lawyer, a writer, a chemist, or a public service worker. I had so many dream jobs that I didn’t know how to apply for entry-level jobs. I landed a fellowship but panicked that I wouldn’t be able to survive on the money it provided—I wouldn’t have—and so I opted to work part-time at a restaurant, a tanning salon, and as an event planner at Chatham. It wasn’t a glamorous six months, but it eventually landed in a full-time gig that evolved into my job now as a Writer & Digital Content Specialist. Sometimes things don’t manifest in the way we expect, but I’d encourage you to lean into those moments where you’re forced to take a left when you were planning on a right. My right turns have led to some of the best lessons and surprises of my life.

Try things that seem off-base

If you don’t immediately land a job in your field of study, it doesn’t mean you should give up. Typically, college graduates are entry level workers entering highly competitive job markets. Expand your horizons a bit. Apply to jobs that seem interesting or exciting that may differ from what you initially expected for your career. If you can find a way to engage your hobbies professionally, that might lend itself to a creative and enjoyable avenue for income. If you’re stressed about money, pick up a job in the retail or service industry that will help you pay the bills while you search. Whatever job you do first won’t hinder your ability to do the job you want eventually, in fact, it might help you build out your resume with necessary transferrable skills.

Build community wherever you are

My best friend and fellow alumna, Meg Scanlon ‘16 was one of the first people I got to interview when I started writing for Chatham.

Whether you’re moving home, moving to a new city, or all of your friends are suddenly moving away, graduation lends itself to movement and that’s difficult no matter the variety. You’ll find that post-college life doesn’t always yield the rapid friendship making of residence halls, but if you stay open and curious to community, community will find you. Regardless of if your next stop is grad school, the job market, or a new city, keep your eyes open for those who show up when you need help or cackle at the same jokes as you—you might find the bond of a lifetime, or at least, a bond to help you navigate this transition.

Don’t rush to make big decisions

Chances are, whether you want to acknowledge it or not, you feel a bit of pressure right now. That’s normal and expected. One way you can help yourself is by not adding to this pressure by forcing decisions you don’t feel ready for. If you’re not sure about a graduate program, take a few years off from academia to familiarize yourself with the industry. If you’re not sure about moving to a new place, cast a wide net and apply to jobs both near and far. If something feels off, trust that it is, and wait for something that feels right for you personally and professionally.

Set goals and practice adaptability

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of choices that you’re currently facing, try to set manageable goals for yourself each day. If you’re job-hunting, update your resume and share it with a few trusted resources. Pick a day each week where you hunker down and complete job applications. Try to give yourself grace if things take longer than you expect and extend some compassion towards yourself if you receive a rejection. Continue to build out skills, interests, and hobbies in your free time by reading, practicing, taking classes, and working with trusted mentors and collaborators.

Don’t forget about your Chatham resources

As an alum, Chatham’s Career Development resources are still available to you. You can set up meetings with the Career Development team and meet alumni mentors on Chatham Connect. Don’t discount the bonds you’ve formed with your on-campus advisors, bosses, and faculty members, who would happily serve as references, provide letters of recommendation, or share helpful post-graduation advice.

Remind yourself that this is just the beginning

Four years ago, you were beginning your college journey. Now, you’re beginning another one. When you’re feeling lost, lonely, or helpless, remember all of the obstacles you overcame during your undergraduate education and the ways you’ve evolved in preparation for this next phase of your life. It doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy, but rest assured knowing that the bumps and detours that arise might lead you to the people, places, and opportunities that you’re meant to find next.

Congratulations and best wishes to all of our graduating seniors!