My Advice for the Graduates

My Advice for the Graduates

1. Be a lifelong learner.

A healthy person is constantly growing. You're a living, breathing thing, like a plant. Keep feeding that brain of yours.

2. You don't have to know it all right now.

When I was in school I remember teachers drilling into us that we had to know what we were going to college for before we even entered high school. One rebel teacher told us, most people have something like seven different jobs in their life. You may not end up doing what you went to college for.

So calm down.

3. Big dreams take big investments.

You want to be a marine biologist? Great! But don't think because you have a degree you're going to be sailing around the world tomorrow. Be prepared to start on the lowest rung and work your way up.

4. In the wise words of my father-in-law, "You always have a choice."

Maybe a four year degree isn't for you. Maybe you can only afford a two year degree at a community college. Perhaps you're shooting for a certification or a trade school. Maybe you want to join the military. You might want to work and do school. This could be night or online classes. There are a lot of options.

You're not a sugar cookie. Your story can have a different shape if you want it to.

5. Listen to your elders.

It's hard. Let's be honest. You want to spread your wings. But they're trying to help. They have way more life experience. And, as with any advice, weigh it out, think about it, then decide if it's sound or not and if it applies to you.

6. Try something new!

Be open. Now's the time to meet new people, go on an adventure, or pick up a new hobby. You may discover an interest you didn't know you had (and solve your what-degree-should-I-get problem). You may meet your person.

7. Don't settle when it comes to your person.

Honestly, you may not meet your future spouse until long after school. Take time to grow yourself and experience life. When you do meet them, you'll be more sure of who you are and what you want. So don't be in a rush.

8. Take a leap!

Slow and steady wins the race but, sometimes, you just have to take a risk. Make sure it's a calculated one. Don't run around willy nilly (that's not wise). Say there's an opportunity to study abroad for a semester. You really want to, like really, really. Yet you're scared. So ask yourself, "Can I not do this and be cool with that down the road?" If the answer is "no," then you might wanna just dive in. What have you got to lose?

9. Things are going to change. Embrace it.

They're already changing now. You're going off to college. You're starting a new career. You're moving across state. It doesn't stop. Someday there will be marriage, babies, etc. Roll with it.

10. Ask yourself, "What did I enjoy as a kid?"

I once heard this can be a great insight into what you should do as an adult. Obviously this is not a 100% fail proof answer. I'm not a paleontologist. As an adult I understand that I don't enjoy science or getting dirty. Digging up dinosaur bones is not for me. However, a lifelong interest (like my love of books) might give you a place to start!

11. Pray.

You don't know everything. Ask for help. A lot. You're going to need it.

12. Your calling and your occupation may be different
(wise advice I once heard from a HS class president).

Maybe you cut hair to pay the bills. You love it, but your heart is with your side hobby, volunteering at a local animal shelter. That's fine. You're allowed to do both!

13. It's more than your degree.

Volunteer. Do an internship. Make your willingness to work known and your face seen. There's a greater chance you'll get hired if people are already familiar with you and know you're serious about your goals and the job.

And lastly . . .

14. Call your mom.

She birthed you. She's probably helping pay for your school. She has your back like none other.

So call her.
Now.

Blessings, J <3