The journey is over, but, it's just about to begin. Take some time to appreciate your accomplishment. Your perseverance and hard work got you here, now you have a lifetime of possibilities.
It's a bit intimidating isn't it? How can you possibly know what you are going to do the rest of your life? It's hard to talk to your family because they have their expectations for you. If your experience is like mine, I got little help from my teachers or counselors in learning what to anticipate. You have choices to make but the good news is that time is on your side. Be assured that you are not the only one feeling like this even if nobody else is talking about it.
If you're graduating high school the one decision that you need to commit to is to improve your skills. If college isn't for you, that's okay. Learn a trade. That may mean going to a trade/technical school or beginning at an entry level to be trained by your employer. The work today may not be where you want to be but as you develop skills you will have opportunities become available that you haven't considered yet. If you are inclined toward college but undecided that's okay too. I encourage you to start school in the fall enrolled in STEM classes needed for your general education requirements. Not thinking about a scientific or technical vocation? Take the classes anyway. What you learn will serve you well and you will find that your best career options for compensation and stability are in those fields. If your committed to other areas like Social Sciences, take the STEM classes anyway. You will still need them to graduate.
If you're graduating from college you have some different thoughts. Now it's time to choose an employer in your field of endeavor. I suggest that mid size or larger firms will best serve you early on. Their systems usually are superior including training, mentoring, etc. Benefits are also important and you will find those companies probably have better benefits. Begin to invest in your employers retirement plan (they may partially match your investment) even though it's a lifetime away. They may not contribute on your behalf if you don't make contributions. In effect, you would be walking away from free money.
Let's discuss money. Money is important. Don't let someone tell you to "do what you love." "Love" is an emotion and it may change. Love grows. Passion changes but your need for money for the remainder of your life will not. You've made a substantial investment in your career both monetarily and with your time. Maximize your investment. It's good business. I am not suggesting that you work someplace that you hate, but, I am advising that you always stay aware of your value to an employer, discuss your perspective with your superiors and stay active within your industry having regular contact with peers at other firms to learn about how they are valued. Don't hesitate to have conversations with competitors about what they may offer you and don't fear change. You will retain your friends, make new ones and become every bit as comfortable with a new firm if you select well.
Finally, you are going to feel stress with all of this to consider. Again, you're not alone. I believe your family is your source for support but I also understand that they may not have the skills, education, or experience to help you to make the decisions that you need. They still love you and can help you through the process and that comfort will relieve your stress. Find mentors. The Chamber of Commerce often has SCORE volunteers that would happily meet with you. Talk to your pastor if you go to Church. Counselors at schools that you are considering may be valuable as well.
The most important thing to remember is that you are loved. At times in life you will be overwhelmed and that is important to remember at those times.
This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 1 John 4:9-10
Blessings and good luck!
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