Navigating the Post-Graduation Blues

Written by UCD Alumni Ambassador (opens in a new window)Aghogho Sophie Okpara

For more than two decades, you've proudly worn the title of student, and now, as you stand on the cusp of a new chapter, it's only natural to feel a bit disoriented when that familiar identity is suddenly no more. Amidst concerns about landing that dream job, contemplating emigration plans, and double-checking the position of your graduation tassel (it’s on the left, right?), the last thing you'd expect on your big day is the weighty, self-imposed question of “So... what now?” 

The phenomenon known as post-graduation blues isn't discussed enough. Much like the leap from secondary school to university, this time you find yourself in uncharted waters, without a guide to hold your hand or forewarn you of what lies ahead. But fear not – this time, it's not as daunting as it may seem. Despite the expectation that you should have it all figured out, it's perfectly okay not to.

Sure, there's no official "how to do life after college" handbook, but that's where we come in. You don't have to navigate this exciting next step on your own. Feeling like you're going through a mini identity crisis or shedding a tear over the overwhelming unknown?. Even if it seems like everyone else is on cloud nine while you're grappling with uncertainty, know that you're not alone in this experience. 

We've gathered some helpful tips to guide you through this next exhilarating chapter:

Seek a mentor

It’s okay to need some guidance. I think you would agree that a wise person seeking to reach an unknown destination would use a GPS rather than find the place purely based on head knowledge. The latter option may eventually bring you to your desired destination, but it would take much longer than simply availing of help. Similarly, when we are looking for the right route to follow after graduation, there are people who exist who have embarked on that route before (or have tried to) that may help you get to where you need to be, faster. Thankfully, we have a career mentoring service available on our (opens in a new window)UCD Alumni Network. So it’s easier than ever for you to find a mentor that is just right for you!

Take time to rest

When you have spent your whole life on the ‘no-stops’ train of the education system, it is easy to forget how important it is to rest. Often, the post-graduation blues really stems from the discomfort of not having a clear structure anymore. But the sudden stopping of the system should encourage you to take time to relax and adjust to this new era of life. Use the time to ground yourself and just breathe.

Discover who you really are

It’s pretty distracting to spend all your time in lecture halls or in the library. You don’t have to face the music of what you really like or dislike, what you really enjoy spending time doing or what makes you excited to get up in the morning. Memorising information from powerpoint slides will really do that to you. But now that you are in a period of uncertainty, why not endeavour to learn who the person behind it all has been this whole time? Try new hobbies. Visit local-owned cafés. Learn a new language. Travel, if you can. Spend time with yourself. You never know, this whole time the post-graduation blues could just have been an invitation from inner you to get to know the real you!

Remember, this post-graduation phase is an exciting opportunity to shape the next chapter of your life. It's a journey filled with possibilities, growth, and self-discovery. You're not alone, and as you embark on this adventure, know that there's a UCD alumni community ready to cheer you on every step of the way. Don't forget to (opens in a new window)update your contact details so you can stay connected and make the most of the support and resources awaiting you.