Driving around Ohio State's campus this past weekend, I witnessed bare backs and bikinis, games of corn hole and many joyous faces-all signs that spring is upon us. For seniors, that can be really exciting-- or really frightening.
I am stuck between the two emotions. While I am very excited to close this chapter of my life, the uncertainty of my future tells me to insert a bookmark.
How can I possibly lay out with my roommates or plan weekend trips when there's a chance of being an unemployed college graduate in 10 weeks?
According to Audra Godfrey, assistant director of career planning at Otterbein, it takes a new college graduate approximately nine months to find their first full-time job.
This statistic, and other aspects of my life, have led me to explore other options. Is it necessary to begin work June 16? Can I afford to follow in the footsteps of my already- graduated roommates and work a part-time job, hoping that something "just comes along?" Should I travel abroad again or even work abroad?
Ideally, most of us would probably like to have a job lined up in an area of work we enjoy. We have to be prepared, however, if plans don't go as expected. According to princetonreview.com, there are many things a college graduate can do before starting his or her career. The Web site suggests joining AmeriCorps, a volunteer program which allows students to see themselves as part of a larger society.
This whole issue has forced me to become somewhat philosophical and question my existence and what I want to do in life. I will graduate as a 21-year-old, younger than most in my class. I'm not sure I'm ready to make the leap into the "real world."
Educationally and experientially speaking, I would be comfortable beginning my public relations career-I'm just not sure if I want to begin that chapter in my life.
With many options to consider and the economy the way it is, is it okay to alter the timeline that is expected of us and not jump into a lifelong career?
According to The Spectator, Dean Peterson, assistant professor of economics at Seattle University, suggests putting the job search on hold. "The last two recessions have been called jobless-recoveries, the Gross Domestic Product bounces back, but we're just not picking up the new jobs, and the new jobs are going to be what our students are going to be vying for," said Peterson.
He suggests joining the Peace Corps for a couple of years or finding internships to enhance resumes. Senior business administration major Adam Boals said "I'm just going with the flow and enjoying my new job at the Dog Joint. Hopefully I won't have to work there after graduation."
As young adults, only we can make such a life-altering decision come June. In the meantime, I encourage every senior to figure out what they want in life and make choices accordingly, while still enjoying the perks that come with being a student. t&c;
ALICIA DAVIS IS A SENIOR ORG. COMM. AND PUBLIC RELATIONS MAJOR AND STAFF WRITER FOR THE t&c.;
