“What are you going to do after college?”
That’s the dreaded question I seem to get every time someone brings up my hard-earned and *very attractive* bachelor’s degree that I just obtained last week.
I struggle with finding an answer because although I may now be considered an expert in mass communication, I’m still not an expert at figuring out this whole “life” thing (which is surprisingly difficult for someone who hates the unknown and plans everything). However, the one thing that college has taught me is to never stop learning.
Learning leads to opportunities, victories, and even failures. It inspires you to do what you’ve always dreamed and to stay humble after you have achieved those dreams. Learning should go beyond classroom walls and workplace cubicles.
When I decided to attend Louisiana State University in hopes of pursuing a career in communications, I was scared that I wouldn’t be at the top of my class anymore. I was terrified of meeting new people on campus. I doubted my abilities!
By doubting myself, I stopped all possibilities of growing into the person I wanted to be. I was upset all the time, I didn’t want to hang out with friends, I didn’t want to study, and I was okay with failure.
I needed to change. I began studying with classmates, experimenting with food recipes, and even competed in a pageant.
I eventually blossomed from the introverted girl who made terrible grades into the extroverted-but-still-introverted girl who didn’t let life bring her down or hold her back. This was only possible because I decided to actually learn more about my purpose and who I am as a person.
Growth only comes when you’re willing to work on all aspects of your life – school, relationships, social life, work, etc. It takes commitment and a lot of time, but it’s worth it.
If I had not decided to change my lifestyle, I would have never been given the opportunities that I’ve had and achieved my wildest dreams. It’s seriously crazy how much you can learn when you open yourself up to the world!
I’m not telling you that I’m a professional life coach, because I’m far from it, but what I want you to take away is that even though things seem permanent or locked down, they don’t have to be. Learning allows you to escape, become a better person, and realize your purpose. Learning can come from a new book, a conversation with a stranger, or a new place you travel to.
Striving to succeed in my personal life and career are my top priorities as a recent graduate. I may not know exactly where my life will take me, or where I want to take it, but that just means I have more learning to do.