The first few years after college bring a lot of big life changes. The transition to life after college can be difficult. This is a time that brings anxiety, uncertainty and even social isolation. Even those who are excited about and look forward to beginning their adult or professional life often struggle with the transition. Just know you are not alone! Here are some tips to aid in your transition to life after college:
Prioritize Building a Strong Social Network
It can be difficult to move into another phase of life and away from what you have known for the past few years. If you are moving away from home or friends, you will have to intentionally build a new social network. Making new friends after college can be difficult because you may not see the same people every day. You can pursue activities you enjoy in your community to maintain a schedule to meet new people. Try joining a book club, a running group or even a knitting club. You just have to put yourself out there and embrace the opportunity of meeting new people.
The Job you pick is not your Identity
It can be terrifying to pick a job. The job you start in may not be the job you stay in, but you will be dedicating at least a year or two of your life to it. The job you hold does not dictate who you are. You are a person outside of your job with a past, hobbies, goals and plans. While you may be making a big decision, this decision does not define you.
Your Career doesn’t have to be Linear
Unless you are one of the few lucky people who know what they want to dedicate their life to, there will likely be some trial and error. The job you think is perfect for you can turn out to be unfulfilling. The job you think you will not enjoy may fill your cup daily. It is okay to be uncertain of your career path. It is okay to not work your “dream job” when you start your career. With hard work and perseverance, you can find a career you truly enjoy. Just keep your mind open and do not be afraid to try something you have never done before.
Give yourself Grace
The best thing you can do for yourself is to change your mindset and give yourself grace. You should acknowledge that the road may be difficult, and you may have trouble adjusting. You can create a strategy for yourself to take care of your own needs and do things that bring joy to your life. Not everything has to be figured out immediately. You can figure it out along the way but remember to be patient with yourself.
Stay in Touch with your Sisters
The deep connections you have made in college are important to maintain. You can continue these connections by staying in contact with sisters via text message, video chats and social media. You can also return to your university for alumnae events and schedule trips with sisters you are close with to bond and continue your sisterhood. Alpha Sigma Alpha alumnae chapters exist all across the country and these can help you hold onto sisterhood while making new local connections!