Graduating college is a time for celebration–but it may also be overwhelming or intimidating. For many, it signifies entrance into the “real world,” not being within walking distance of friends, and no longer living years dictated by the academic calendar. This can lead to feelings of uncertainty and doubt, but it’s important to remember that graduating college is not just the “end” but, in fact, the beginning of so much more.

Make a plan: The best way to alleviate uncertainty, or if you’re struggling with a lack of structure, is often to make a plan. If there’s a particular career you want, begin applying for entry-level jobs. If you plan on pursuing further education, make a timeline of the application process and consider what you’ll do in the meantime. Service-based organizations, such as AmeriCorps or Peace Corps, are often appealing to recent graduates. Consider your living situation. Have you always wanted to live or work abroad? Or, would you rather stay closer to home? Map out where you see yourself in five years’ time, and begin taking tangible steps to get there.
Don’t panic: If, in fact, you have no idea where you’d like to be in five years or feel overwhelmed, take smaller steps instead. If you don’t know what career you’d like to pursue, try on a few short-term internships for size. If you’re not sure what graduate program is best for you, reach out to professors for advice. If you don’t know where you’d like to live, try a few different areas. Now is the time to explore your options, work on yourself, and experience as much as you can, as that will be much more beneficial than sitting at home panicking.
Don’t compare yourself to others: Looking through social media, it’s easy to feel as though everyone else has it figured out and knows exactly who they are and where they want to be. That’s rarely the case, however, no matter how it may seem. Appearances aside, everyone is on their own journey on their own timeline, and comparing yourself to others does absolutely nothing for you. Stay focused, and don’t be too hard on yourself.
Accept failure: Failure is inevitable as you move forward in your post-college life. Don’t be discouraged by a rejection from your dream job, or a graduate program that didn’t work out. Every rejection is an opportunity, and you never know just where life will take you.

It’s perfectly normal to feel uncertain after graduating, but giving in to the fear and anxiety won’t help. Taking action, no matter how small, goes a long way.