7 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Graduated

Many recent graduates think all they need in order to obtain a job is a degree in their major of choice and a great resume.  What many fail to understand is that there are thousands of right-side tassel bearing individuals such as themselves gunning for the same type of job they are.  Every one of us must take this into consideration once we have stepped one foot into higher education.  You must ask yourself two very important questions,

“What are you going to do to set yourself apart from the competition?” 

“How are you going to be different from the rest of the world who is now vying for the same job you are?” 

It used to be that we as Americans only had to compete with people in the United States for jobs at American companies, but now in the 21st century we must compete with educated individuals from all over the world.  Is that a horrible thing, competition?  I don’t believe competition is that bad, but it will force us as a people and a country to be innovative and creative to ensure that we stay on top of everything and be the best in every industry. 

What are you doing as a recent graduate or as a soon to be recent graduate to ensure that you are eligible or even a candidate for a job in your field of study?  Don’t you think that since competition is greater than it ever has been it would be a good idea to take some steps toward making yourself a more viable candidate for a future position?  Don’t you think it would be useful to sit down on a regular basis, before higher education with a parent, guidance counselor, or teacher, and during college, with a career counselor, professor or academic advisor to talk about your career and your future job?  What this does is give you a chance to make sure you are heading in the right direction for a specific career, or learning about all of the different options available to you so you can make a decision on your career in the future.  There are too many students who just assume they will know what to do when they graduate.  So instead of planning their career before they graduate, they take it easy and "enjoy college" as much as they can.  Then, once the parties stop and graduation day arrives they are left standing in their empty dorm room with their bags packed but no where to go. 

“Why, you ask?” 

Simple.  They did not consider their future career while they were in school and now school is over, they have to play catch up.  Don't let this happen to you.  Plan early and plan often.  There is a famous, saying that I would like to share with you. 

"Those who fail to plan, plan to fail." 

It’s simple, yet profound.  Will this be you some day? 

“All packed up but nowhere to go?” 

Well, I guess you could move back in with your parents and live in your old room until you find something better.  Of course, it doesn’t have to be that way if you simply develop a plan and work your plan before it’s too late.