We all have, and are entitled to different perspectives upon graduation season but sometimes, there are experiences or lessons that we can all relate too. These are 7 perspectives I've learned and hopefully can be a highlight of how we handle the next five months:
1. It's okay to feel discouraged, lost, or afraid
I feel like my very own Holly Golightly if you've ever watched Breakfast at Tiffany's. Holly's a twenty-something trying to make it on her own in the Big Apple. She's real, she's eager, and she's a challenge. This film guides us through her own self-realization, something a majority of us can relate too during this stage.
2. It's important to surround yourself with people who are just as hungry for success as you are.
At one point in my life, I was friends with everyone. Year after year, I've cut off just about everyone and can say I'm down to 5 good friends. I've recognized who has a place in my life. Who is real, who is fake. Who is okay with having a stagnant future, who is determined to live a life worth living. Now more than ever, I surround myself with the dreamers, doers, and thinkers.
3. You learn more about who you are and what you want.
I know more and more who I am, who I want to become, and what I want in life. I am so deeply invested in my work, school, and internships that nothing else weighs more than that. I want a future for myself and for my family where I know I can achieve the impossible.
4. Your love life either exists or is non existent.
You either have it or you don't. If you have it, there is a real chance of a real relationship outside of graduation. If you don't, well there are many, many other fish in the sea. A significant other should be the least of a graduates worries.
5. It's NOT a competition. We all have our own bizarre journeys.
As I've mentioned before, social media takes a toll on our lives. It makes us feel as though we are in a race, with the rest of the world. But, your life is in your hands. Your daily routine, your diet, your goals, your to-do lists, those are all yours. You create the life you want and eventually when it is your time, you'll get there.
6. Network, network, network.
I can't stress this enough. Use your time efficiently! I can't tell you how many times I've reached out to influencers through Instagram, Twitter, Facebook but primarily and more professionally, through LinkedIn. It's always about who you know! Never feel afraid to reach out to someone because that persistency can take you a long way (to an extent).
7. Never give up.
As many times as I might have been and will be rejected or denied, whether it be a career or an internship; I constantly push myself to do better the next time. I prepare. I read. I organize. In this extremely competitive generation it's prominent to never give up on you or your dreams. You would be surprised about the capabilities you posses. Set those goals and go for it, no matter what it takes.