Disclaimer: The following article was written by Brooke Chaplan / Freelance Writer
The day has arrived, you are a college graduate. It’s time to step into — and survive in — the real world. A masters in electrical engineering is great, but it will only take you so far. Keep these five things you need to know in mind as you turn in your student ID, and journey out on your own.
1. How to Toss out the Ramen Noodles (How to Cook a Meal)
Learn how to cook a decent, healthy meal. (Bonus points: learn how to cook several decent, healthy meals.) One can possibly survive, though probably not thrive, on convenience foods alone. Cooking for one can be challenging, but with some advance planning and grocery shopping (and a small investment in food storage containers) your body and mind will reap the benefits.
2. How to Tie Your Shoes (How to Dress for an Interview)
No self-respecting adult wears Velcro shoes. Time to beef up your wardrobe and dress like an adult. Out in the real world you may be spending a fair amount of time interviewing and networking. Dress to impress. Dress for the job you want, not the job you have. You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Yes, all these clichés (and more) apply.
3. How to Write (a Resume and Thank You letter)
Don’t worry, you don’t have to write in cursive. By now you surely have a perfect resume — right? Following every call, interview, and email up with a thank you will set you apart from the crowd. Practice by sending one to your mom — she will be so proud!
4. Count Your Pennies (How to Save Money)
It’s time for the big b-word: Budget. Sorry to break the news but, it’s likely your first post-college job will not be your highest paying one. Every college graduate needs to learn how to live on a budget. Just don’t make your budgeting plan about the grocery coupons. Look closely at your loans and how your income will be spread out now that you are paying for more than just tuition.
Who are You? (How to be Yourself)
This is probably the hardest, and most important part of being an official adult. It’s time to figure out who you are. What are your beliefs? What causes are near and dear to your heart? Now is your time to explore and really look at what you want to do for the rest of your life. Now that education is out of the way, start the journey you’ve always wanted.
Congratulations! You are at the beginning of a very exciting journey.
This is your life. Now hand up your degree and go for it!
