Senior year is quickly upon us. From the wide-eyed freshman learning how to function independently, we have all grown immensely. One could say we have made it to the top of the food chain and have developed quite a swagger. This confidence comes as a result of overcoming academic and personal obstacles throughout the past three years and is no small feat. Nothing quite compares to the feeling of satisfaction one experiences when they realize they can conquer life's adversities on their own. Yet, despite this newfound self-assurance, there is one common theme I see among most seniors. Surprisingly, this trait is doubt. Within the coming months, the job search will become an added burden and will certainly contribute to such doubt. The job market is more competitive than ever, and it can leave millennials feeling downtrodden or inadequate, but this is not justified.
Recently, one of my classes addressed the idea of calling. Calling is defined by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary as "a strong desire to spend your life doing a certain kind of work" and "the work that a person does or should be doing." In the Christian faith, calling is often linked to God directing us to a particular vocation. This is not to say that only work within ministry is worthy of our time. One can serve God in many ways, as long as they are carrying out His message while doing so. This is a comforting sentiment, but it does not direct us to a specific profession. If you are like me and do not have a major that directs you to a specific role in the workforce, the options can be overwhelming. As young people, how are we supposed to make such a life changing decision without any prior experience? Even more so, what happens if we make a mistake in our choice of profession?
There are a few techniques in narrowing down potential occupations. For one, get to know yourself. This entails digging deep into your past and current interests, strengths, and weaknesses. As a child, what activity gave you the utmost pleasure? Although this may seem silly, it is important to revisit the fundamentals of your being. For example, as a child, one might have loved to draw and construct things. This might lead to a career as an architect or perhaps an interior designer. Having trouble remembering what you were like as a child? It might be useful to connect with old teachers and your parents to inquire what attributes stood out when you were younger. They can be great resources in identifying early-on hobbies and gifts.
I am also here to tell you that it is okay to make mistakes in the job search. Very few people choose the profession they will stay in for the rest of their lives the first time around. Just like with the college experience, you are bound to encounter failure and learn from such failure. Contrary to common thought, learning does not stop when formal education comes to a close. Life is about ups and downs and what one makes of them. Do not consume yourself with the right job title. The most important vocation any one person can have is to make a positive mark on the world.
"I wanna say I lived each day, until I die and know that I meant something in somebody's life. The hearts I have touched will be the proof that I leave that I made a difference, and this world will see." - Beyonce Knowles
