By Oyewopo Aminat Titilayo (U19MM1064)
Graduation day is often painted as the grand finale, the applause, the certificates, the pictures in flowing gowns. But as the crowd disperses and the caps are picked off the ground, reality sets in: what’s next?
The truth is, life after school doesn’t begin on graduation
day, it starts long before you leave campus. The experiences you gather as a
student during internships, volunteering, leadership in clubs, side hustles, or
simply learning how to manage time and relationships are the foundation for the
journey ahead. Those who prepare early often find it easier to adjust when the
protective bubble of school life bursts.
Still, the transition can be overwhelming. After years of
lectures and exams, you’re suddenly free. The first step is self-reflection.
This isn’t about comparing yourself with classmates but asking: What do I
really want? Some are eager to dive into a career, while others take time to
figure things out. Both are valid. Taking a pause doesn’t mean failure, it
could be the beginning of clarity.
Career paths quickly take center stage. Some graduates land
jobs quickly, while others face months of searching. The job market is
competitive, and rejection is normal. Instead of panicking, use this period to
sharpen your edge through freelancing, short courses, or building a personal
project. Employers value initiative as much as certificates.
But life after school is not only about jobs. It’s also
about personal growth. This is when you learn independence, how to budget, cook
a decent meal, or nurture healthy relationships. These lessons aren’t taught in
classrooms, yet they’re as important as professional development.
Don’t underestimate networking. The people you meet now,
whether during school projects, at internships, or professional events can open
doors you never imagined. Success often comes not just from what you know, but
who knows you.
Then comes the decision about further studies. Should you
dive straight into a master’s degree or work first? The answer depends on your
goals and finances. Rushing into more schooling without clarity can delay
real-world experience, while gaining work exposure first may sharpen your
perspective.
Above all, remember that life after school is not a race.
Some secure dream jobs within months, others take years to find their path.
Your journey is unique, and comparison only breeds frustration. What matters is
progress, no matter how small.
So, if you’ve just graduated and you’re asking, what’s next?
The answer is exploration. Try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them.
Stay open to opportunities, even those outside your comfort zone. Life after
school isn’t about having all the answers, rather it’s about having the courage
to keep finding them.