What Lies Ahead: Navigating Life After College
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Chapter 1: The College Journey
Navigating college can feel like a daunting task. Society often places pressure on students to have a clear plan for their futures. In reality, many of us experience a whirlwind of confusion and uncertainty.
My college experience has been anything but typical. I relocated to a new state, knowing only one individual at my institution. Just as I began to settle in, the Covid pandemic struck, forcing me back to Illinois for remote learning.
The transition to online classes lasted two years and felt never-ending. Initially, I was pursuing a degree in media studies, but by the end of my sophomore year, I recognized my passion lay in a more creative avenue, leading me to switch to Theatre Production.
As I approach my senior year, I find myself fully immersed in stage management. While I’m thrilled with my choice of major, the academic journey has presented its own hurdles.
Section 1.1: Love and Life Changes
Towards the end of my freshman year, I fell in love with a military man. After a deployment and the challenges of the pandemic, we now live together off-campus.
Commuting to school daily has become my new normal. Additionally, changing majors after two years of online learning meant I had to start over in building my social circle.
Despite the unconventional path I’ve taken, I have no regrets about my choices. However, as my college experience nears its conclusion, a persistent question looms: What am I going to do with my life?
Subsection 1.1.1: Career Choices and Aspirations
A part of me is eager to delve into freelance writing, while another part wishes to fully leverage my degree. However, I am also aware that stage management often doesn't provide lucrative financial rewards. Should I consider alternative career paths?
Section 1.2: Seeking Guidance
As I stand on the brink of what feels like "real life," I find myself feeling utterly lost. College can be a blend of the most exhilarating and terrifying years of one's life. I’m uncertain about which direction to choose, but I’m committed to sharing my journey here.
To those who have walked this path—adults, graduates, professionals—please share your insights and advice for individuals like me!
Chapter 2: Reflections and Resources
In this chapter, we'll explore the feelings of uncertainty and the search for direction that many students face as they transition from college to the real world.
What the hell am I doing with my life? - This video dives into the struggles of finding one's path and purpose in life, especially after college.
"What the Hell Am I Doing with My Life?" - Drew Gasparini’s performance captures the essence of existential questioning many face during transitional periods.