It’s bad enough to know that after graduation, everything is going to change. Wait, I won’t be able to walk to my friends’ rooms anymore? Already made food isn’t a 100m walk and swipe away? I can’t choose my schedule each semester? Paying rent isn’t once every four months? Once graduation hits, life as we know it changes, but how much has to change?
Where you live after graduation is based on so many different factors:
Can you live with family?
Are there jobs in your field in your area?
Can you commute to an area that has jobs?
Can you afford the commute?
Will you be finding an apartment?
Will you have roommates?
Do you have the guts to move away to a place you don’t know anyone?
There are so many things to think about, it can be overwhelming. Forget can be, it will be overwhelming.
Depending on your field and your luck in the opportunities available near the place you’ll be living, moving could make most sense for your resume and career. Although finances is the biggest factor in moving, what you might not realize is that moving could benefit your career more than staying home and settling for a job lower than your qualifications.
Living with family might not be ideal, but it usually makes most sense financially. There are a few ways to get out of your house without breaking the bank though:
– Residencies: Some internship opportunities will provide housing, utilities and provide food stipends. These jobs won’t build your savings account, but your expenses will the low to say the least. Residencies also give you a great way to test out a job, as you would be focused on your career without distraction. Residencies usually last six months to a year.
– Fellowships: Fellowships can be found domestic and international. They provide incredible opportunities and will give you an experience like none other. Benefits vary, but fellows are often provided with full access to events and sources like a regularly employed person.
Aside from these opportunities, internships abroad is another way to go, but unfortunately, the safest way to intern abroad is through a program, and many programs overcharge. Also, internships abroad provide a false sense that your experience abroad will be superior to an experience in a different part of theUnited States.
When you are choosing which path to take, my best advice: do whatever is best for you, not anyone else. Balance short-term sacrifice and benefits with long-term. The world is wide open to you, but you have to decide to go out and knock on doors because no one will come to you with a job. Figure out what you want and don’t be afraid to go out and get it.