Guide for Graduates: Transitioning from College to Employment

Guide for Graduates: Transitioning from College to Employment

So you’re graduating college and wondering what’s next? Many aspects of your life will change – your social life, your routine. It can be overwhelming but fear not, we have 5 pieces of advice to get you through that transition period.

1. If you have a few weeks before you’re starting your full-time position, try to make a habit of waking up around when you would need to wake up for work. It can make the physical and mental transition a lot easier if you’re not about to fall asleep at your desk.
2. If you’re starting a full-time position at a place you haven’t interned at before, be prepared to be out of the loop for the first few weeks. Like anything, it takes time to truly understand the culture of a place, politics, etc. Just be a sponge! Now’s your chance to learn a lot of new things.
3. Always be working on your resume! Don’t think about your job just as tasks, think about how you can translate and transfer what you’re doing and why you’re doing it to look great on a resume. Always look for results in your work.
4. Take on new responsibilities. After graduation, there will likely be more responsibilities, such as paying for bills or moving to a new city. Along with new personal responsibilities, you will be responsible for completing your work on time, getting along with colleagues, and reaching specific measurable goals. After some time in the role, it’s expected that you will perform your job to the best of your ability without instruction or a grade. Take initiative, and be focused.
5. Your social life might change a lot. The first year out of college can be lonely as you transition to a structured schedule and a new environment. Use this time to see what else is out there. Join a networking group like AMA, PRSA, PYP (Pittsburgh Young Professionals), or find a new hobby!

This is an exciting new chapter of your life. Keep an open mind and embrace the change.  Prior to graduation,  be sure to schedule an appointment with Career Development to talk future plans!