After graduating from college, students usually go in one of two ways: attending graduate school or starting a career pertaining to their degree. The purpose of earning a degree is to help students obtain a career.
Not me, I am looking to take a well-deserved break after graduation.
These last two years have been extremely difficult with the COVID-19 pandemic, losing loved ones and online education, all while taking on senior internships and courses. I haven’t even entered “the real world” and I’m already burned out.
“Burned out” is an understatement. I’ve been pushing through exhaustion.
Most days for the last two years, I’ve felt like a zombie running on four hours of sleep. I have been juggling several tasks and responsibilities and feeling as if I never reached the finish line. I’m always telling myself to keep pushing, that I’m one step closer. I’m excited to say I’m days away from reaching one of my biggest goals.
There’s nothing to be ashamed about. Taking time off after graduation is an opportunity to recharge, gain motivation and get inspired. This is the time to work on myself. This is the time to discover and enjoy life.
I’m not saying I won’t ever put my degree to good use or do anything at all.
During this period off, I’ll invest time in myself, especially as an artist. I feel as if this time off can be beneficial. I’ve abandoned my art. The number of artworks I’ve created is so limited. I want to create more art and work on my craft.
Another reason to take time off is to figure out what I enjoy.
I need to find my spark. I don’t have all the answers and I’m not sure where I see myself in 10 years. I believe everything will come in its own time.
There shouldn’t be a “conventional career path.” Everyone works at their own pace.
For example, not all students finish earning their bachelor’s degree in four years. There’s always the urge to compare yourself to others. That shouldn’t be, because what others may consider “falling behind” or a “setback” is just creating a different path to get to where you want to be. I have no exact timeline and that’s OK.
I’ll be a first-generation graduate, which is a huge accomplishment in itself. My family is extremely proud of me.
Most importantly, I’m proud of myself. After all this hard work, a break is just what I need.
