After three years of sleepless nights, endless projects, papers, exams, and finals, this fall, the class of 2024 is entering their senior year of college. As these soon-to-be graduates celebrate all of their “lasts” at their respective universities, there are a few things they can do now — beyond partying — to brace themselves for life post-graduation. Trust me, I’ve been there.
When I walked across the stage in 2022, no one had prepared me for the angst of finding a job when the internship-to-full-time pipeline ruptured unexpectedly — or for the impacts a looming recession could have on my job search. While the college experience teaches students many life lessons, there are many things institutions of higher education miss when preparing students for life in the real world. So, whether you are a student, a parent, or a loved one simply trying to look out for your 2024 graduate, here are the things I wish someone had told me as I entered my final year of college.
Book that appointment with the career center
Do not leave campus without meeting with your university’s career center staff or the campus counselor. Once you reach this stage, it’s easy to think you have it all figured out, but the job search might be trickier than you anticipate. From resume edits to alumni networking to salary negotiation tips, university career centers are a great place to start when planning for life post-graduation. To avoid the rush of panicked seniors looking for jobs days before walking across the stage, begin meeting with your school’s career offices during the fall semester.
Use resources while you still have them
Whether it’s access to free mental/physical health resources, the career center, or special student discounts, use it! In addition to on-campus resources, several national professional development organizations like the National Association of Black Journalists, the National…
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