I graduated. Now what?

Photo by Captured by MTV.

Time flew. I mean, it really flew. Admittedly, between finishing my degree, working a part-time job, and hustling for my editorial photography on the side, my blog has been pushed to the back of my mind. But now, everything is different. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and media communications and a Minor in creative writing, celebrated, but already, it’s time to move on.

I spent 22 years of my life in and out of school - thinking about school, forming relationships in classrooms and at campus club events, and dedicating countless hours pouring over my schoolwork or extracurricular jobs to meet deadlines in preparation for the next chapter.

Now, the next chapter is here, and I’m afraid I have no idea what to do. At least, that’s what it feels like. Somehow, despite everything I’ve done, despite the fact that literally, everybody around me has told me, “Yes, you’re ready for this, we’re so proud of you, here’s your diploma,” a part of me just feels intimidated entering the professional world - can my work really compete with all these other talented artists?

It feels different to be vying for an “A” versus a job. A grade only affects you, but making a mistake or not being qualified enough in a job can cause consequences not just for you but for everyone you work with as well. For the entirety of my life, I was always the girl with a plan. I knew where I was going in high school and thought I knew where I was going in college. Now I’m here, and I’ve never felt more lost. Where will I live? What will I do next? What do I want, and how do I get there? And most importantly, how am I going to pay my bills in this economy?

I’m trying to take this one step at a time instead of looking at the looming mountain. One job at a time. I’m considering moving abroad for work, as the time could be now, while I’m untethered to anything in the States. I could also end up living in Denver with my other recently graduated friend or remaining in Fort Collins and working remotely. Or I’ll find myself living on a cruise ship as a photographer again. Truthfully, I could end up in a lot of places. But one thing I know for sure is I’ll never stop learning and growing.

I’m beyond grateful to Colorado State University, my alma mater, for an incredible 3.5 years. Though I hit a few bumps along the way, I met my best friends at CSU and got to experience a plethora of new things: becoming a published writer and photographer, traveling the world on a ship for four months, and getting involved in places like the Museum of Art Fort Collins that I would have never gotten into otherwise. I can’t believe it went by so fast, and I miss it already (except for the deadlines). Please wish me luck as I embark on my next adventure, and thank you for any connections or advice you can offer me. See you in the next post.