W. P. Carey Alumni Share 7 Positive Ways to Deal With Post-Graduation Anxiety

We asked W. P. Carey Alumni: What positive ways can new graduates deal with post-graduation anxiety?

Here is what they shared:

  • Avoid Comparison, Focus on Self-Growth
  • Remember that Success Is a Journey
  • Address Anxiety’s Root Cause
  • Embrace New Opportunities
  • Accept Non-Linear Career Paths
  • Value Networking and Support
  • Focus on the Present Moment

Avoid Comparison, Focus on Self-Growth

It’s important to avoid comparing yourself to others since everyone has their own unique journey. Instead, maintain self-confidence in your abilities and concentrate on your own path. 

Stay focused on your personal growth and development, and refrain from being distracted by comparison. Fixate on being true to yourself and trust that the opportunities you seek will come your way.

Corinne O’Dell, BS, Business Administration and Management, Recruitment Consultant, Selby Jennings

Remember that Success Is a Journey

Graduation anxiety is a common experience, but it’s important to not let it consume you. Instead of getting bogged down by uncertainties, focus on building a strong network of mentors and peers who can offer guidance and support. 

Additionally, take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow, whether that’s through internships, volunteering, or taking online courses. Embrace your passions and pursue them with a sense of curiosity and openness. 

Finally, as cliche as it sounds, remember that success is not a destination, but a journey. Stay flexible, adaptable, and always be willing to pivot and change course when necessary. With the right mindset and approach, you can make post-graduation life a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Jennifer Huynh, BA, Business Law ‘21, Facility Implementation Specialist, Helia Care

Address Anxiety’s Root Cause

Post-graduation anxiety is real and a challenge for many.

Personally, when I’m feeling anxious, it’s because I’m either nervous or unprepared. With that in mind, my best piece of advice for students and recent graduates dealing with negative emotions is to apply yourself to the best of your abilities so that you feel confident and empowered with whatever the anxiety-induced motive might be. 

A process that has helped me is first to determine the root of the (anxiety) cause, reflect on the “why” aspect, and apply yourself toward battling that feeling head-on. 

Chloe Trimarche, BA, Business/Corporate Communications ‘21, Marketing Associate, Beacon Pointe 

Embrace New Opportunities

Graduating college is one of the most exciting yet terrifying times of your life. My best piece of advice is to say “yes.” 

When you’re starting out at a new job and coworkers invite you out to dinner, say yes. When you’re at the gym and someone asks to do a workout with you, say yes. Putting yourself in new situations may be uncomfortable at first, but you’re allowing yourself to be present with new opportunities. 

Along the way, you will make new friends and lifelong memories. Who knows, by attending something you normally wouldn’t do, you could meet a new mentor or even find a passion/hobby you never would’ve tried. 

Adjusting to post-grad life can take some time, but saying yes to the opportunities that present themselves makes the transition less lonely and allows you to connect with others who are most likely experiencing the same feelings.

Jackie Parr, BS, Supply Chain and Business Management ‘21, Buyer B, Moog Space and Defense Group

Accept Non-Linear Career Paths

The overriding reason for experiencing post-graduation anxiety is the thought: “The next step I take will determine the rest of my life.” 

BUT… you still can make mistakes and explore what your career will be. Embrace the journey. Career paths are not linear, and it is perfectly normal to change direction or try different things along the way. 

If you embrace this approach, you can have a better mindset, which will often result in less anxiety. Often, this will lead to unexpected opportunities and growth. Take a deep breath and realize that your next choice is not permanent, but simply a step towards learning about your future.

Dustin Sitar, MBA, Finance, General ‘19, Managing Editor, The Groom Club

Value Networking and Support

Your network is your net worth. You’re only as successful as the people you surround yourself with. The key to jumpstarting a career is to network aggressively and build a strong support system around you. 

Having a strong network will present you with more opportunities down the road than if you’re going through it alone. By showing genuine curiosity through asking meaningful and intellectual questions, the right person will reciprocate and take a chance on wanting to see you succeed. 

Being likable will bring you far in life!

Michael Chong, MS, Finance ‘22, Technology Investment Banking Analyst, D.A. Davidson

Focus on the Present Moment

Accept what you cannot change, have the courage to change the things you can, and have the wisdom to know the difference. This quote resonated with me then (and still does now) because, at such pivotal periods in your life, there may be a tendency to look back on your experiences and wish you had done more, or worry about plans that have yet to take shape in the next chapter that lies ahead. 

My advice: focus on what’s in your hands today. Finish finals strong, submit thoughtful and thorough applications to jobs you’re excited about, be present with your friends, start planning for your upcoming move, and visit your favorite spots on Mill. Do your best today, and the rest will work itself out.

Libby Branning, BA, Business Law ‘18, Client Engagement and Success Manager, Addepar

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By W. P. Carey Career Services Center
W. P. Carey Career Services Center