When the menacing topic of life after college arises in conversation, students are often overcome by uneasiness. Although this can be partially attributed to the misconception that life grows boring after graduation, much of this anxiety is triggered by the stress associated with the workforce.
Job security and adequate pay are two of many topics relevant to the professional world. Their changing nature sometimes prompts students to ask themselves questions about the stability of their futures and can instill a sense of fear. In a competition-driven society, it is unsurprising that young adults experience doubt and view graduation as a looming deadline. Fortunately, there are many ways to cope with this stress while increasing productivity.
One of the most helpful tools I’ve used as a college student is LinkedIn, an employment-centered social networking platform credited with helping people find internships and jobs. The platform’s layout allows users to spotlight their accomplishments, exhibit their experience and amplify their professional presence. The platform is a great resource for networking and organization, which can decrease my future-oriented anxiety.
Another recommendation for overwhelmed college students is to set up an appointment with their advisor. Hearing the perspective of a professional with real-world experience can help individuals relieve their anxiety and feel grounded. Advisors can also provide students with relevant career advice and help them plan their academic schedules. As someone who likes planning ahead, meetings with my advisor has increased my certainty about my career aspirations and helped me stay organized.
In addition to using online resources and meeting with advisors, students should be careful when comparing themselves to others. In academic settings where everyone strives for success, students can feel like they’re inferior to their peers. However, it is important to note that everyone is on a different academic and professional journey. Certain opportunities may perfectly suit one student, but not match the goals of another.
My final tip is for students to keep things in perspective. Taking a moment to breathe may seem unhelpful at first glance, but has prevented me from growing overwhelmed in stressful situations. Above all, I advise those struggling with future-oriented anxiety to use their resources to manage their fear and remain confident and their abilities. In coping with future-oriented anxiety, students can disassemble the notion that life after college is bleak, and instead look to the future optimistically.
