In my final year at university, it felt like everyone around me had a clear vision for their post-graduation paths—except for me. While most of my peers had secured jobs before even tossing their caps, I had deliberately avoided contemplating my future. My studies in mathematics and philosophy opened a few doors—finance and education being the most obvious—but none truly excited me. Philosophy, on the other hand, didn’t seem to offer many practical applications.
Reflecting back, I realize that I was mistaken in assuming that everyone else had it all figured out. Many of those friends who appeared to have a solid plan now express dissatisfaction with their jobs. Sure, a few individuals may declare their aspirations at 15 and stick with them, but that’s a rarity. In my experience, a considerable number of adults still grapple with the question of “what to do with their lives” well into their 40s, let alone right after college.
Recently, I returned to my alma mater to share my experiences of graduating without a defined plan and the diverse paths I’ve explored since then, which included roles in finance, launching a nonprofit, and pursuing a doctorate in Behavioral Science. This led me to reflect on some key lessons I’ve learned along the way.
1. Embracing Confusion Is Normal.
From a young age, we ask kids about their dream careers, often brushing off their whimsical aspirations. However, as they transition to college, there’s an unspoken expectation for them to have a concrete career choice in mind. Why? If you’ve never held a full-time job, how can you possibly know what you want to do for the next four decades? Acknowledging that confusion is a natural part of the journey can help alleviate stress. In fact, a survey by the National Union of Students indicated that concerns about graduate employment significantly contribute to students’ mental health challenges.
2. Career Choices Are Ongoing Decisions.
The pressure to pick a single career path often comes from the misconception that it’s a one-time decision. Upon graduating, you’re not required to determine your lifelong profession; rather, focus on what you want to pursue in the near term. While some choices may lead to long-term commitments, it’s crucial to explore various opportunities, especially if you’re uncertain about your desired direction. This exploration can help you discover what truly resonates with you.
3. You Won’t Know What You Enjoy Until You Try.
After graduation, I stumbled into a nannying position in London that I didn’t particularly long for but seemed like a good fit at the time. Instead, I was offered an internship at a corporate finance firm, an opportunity I initially hesitated to accept. Surprisingly, I found the work more engaging than I had anticipated, even though I ultimately chose to pursue something more meaningful. Likewise, as I work toward my PhD—something I believed I’d adore—I’ve discovered aspects I find challenging, such as the isolation and lack of structure.
4. Early Career Years Are For Exploration.
The first few years of your career should primarily focus on experimentation, acquiring skills, and self-discovery. It often takes time to pinpoint what you truly enjoy. Therefore, trying different roles through internships or entry-level jobs can significantly expedite your understanding of your preferences and strengths. I initially planned to explore various opportunities, but after my finance internship, I found a passion in working for a nonprofit, which provided a challenging and fulfilling experience right out of university.
5. Break Free From Conventional Career Constraints.
A friend of mine, who graduated around the same time, rejected traditional career paths and instead wrote a book that unexpectedly became successful. This venture allowed him to travel and work on projects that excited him, ultimately leading to the establishment of his own business. The key takeaway here is that you don’t have to conform to typical career expectations. There are numerous avenues to generate income that don’t monopolize your time, such as freelancing or tutoring. If you can secure financial stability, you’ll have the freedom to pursue what you’re truly passionate about.
The overarching theme of these insights is to view your 20s as a period of learning—about yourself, the world, and new skills. Give yourself time before expecting to have everything figured out or knowing precisely what you want to do.
In summary, navigating your career path can be a daunting task filled with uncertainty and exploration. It’s essential to embrace this confusion, recognize that career decisions are ongoing, and allow yourself the freedom to try new things. You might find that conventional paths don’t suit you, and that’s perfectly okay.
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