The post-graduate life may not be as glamorous as movies make it out to be. You may feel worried about student debt or looking for your first job. 16% of college graduates remain undecided with their plans after graduation.
If you’re feeling lost or unsure about what to do after college, we got you. Here are five tips for your life after college.
1. It’s Okay to Get a Job Unrelated to Your Course
You don’t have to worry immediately about getting a job related to your course. Only 27% of post-college graduates get jobs related to their courses. Ultimately, your college major doesn’t define your career.
Only a few fields correspond to your college classifications. unless you’re an engineering or nursing student. 91% of employers value problem solving and communication skills over an undergraduate’s majors.
2. Pay Off Your Loans
Try to pay off your loans as soon as possible. The debt can be overwhelming, but that’s all the more reason to bump it up to your priority list. Understand how much you owe and the terms and details of your debt.
Try getting a student loan payment plan. You can also try to consolidate your loan so that you can get a lower interest rate.
Did you use them for rent? Make sure to pay it off so the bills won’t hover over you as you forge your career.
3. Freelance Your Passion
Planning to work for yourself? After graduating from college, you may have picked up some useful skills that aren’t related to your course. If you like drawing or writing during your free time, use this as an opportunity to freelance your passion.
Start by building a portfolio of your best works. Clients value diversity and flexibility. While freelancing your passion can be rewarding, it should be a side job at best.
It’s easy to experience burnout, and when this happens you may face a huge decline. Have a day job that you can fall back on.
4. Handle the Paperwork
Life after college comes with a lot of paperwork. Don’t delay taxes, ID’s, or other important paperwork. Learn how to organize your paperwork.
Pay attention to the terms and conditions of contracts you sign up for. Keep your bank records, credit card bills, tax return documents, and others. Review loan documents and savings bonds every few months.
5. Manage Your Finances
Being an adult means learning how to handle your own money. It’s okay to splurge every once in a while, but know when to prioritize your needs. Have a financial sheet to track every expense.
Always review your credit bill. To increase spending awareness, try using only cash. It’s okay to speak to a financial counselor to help manage your expenses.
Enjoy a Successful Life After College!
There’s no need to rush life after college. Don’t set yourself up with impossible expectations or impose deadlines. Take the time to learn the ropes and understand how to be an adult.
If you found our article helpful, don’t hesitate to read our other guides available! We have more great tips and tricks for you to discover.