What to Do After College

If you’re thinking about what to do after college, you’re not alone! It’s a wide, wide world, and while it may seem like there’s only one path to follow after graduation (entering the workforce), don’t rule out other possibilities. From volunteering abroad to furthering your education internationally, this is the perfect time to explore what you want to do with your life (even if you think you already know)!

As a college graduate, you have the benefit of a resume and academic record that can open many doors, but gaining skills that can only be learned through life experiences will further your success both personally and professionally. After some post-college experiences, you may find that you prefer another field or place to live. You might even discover new passions that will change the trajectory of your life.

Why not jump right into working after college?

You don’t need to rush into working just because it seems like the “right” path.

When considering what to do after you graduate college, take time to do some introspection. Has college left you burnt out or rejuvenated? Will the goals you currently have be affected by a gap year or by some real-world experience?

You may want to spend time with family and friends, celebrating your newly acquired degree and reconnecting with your community if you’ve been absent due to classes and extracurriculars. Whether you’re a young graduate or someone who decided to pursue a degree later in life, deciding what to do after college graduation can be stressful.

Don’t rush into a job or field of work just because that’s what others are doing. There’s a lot to be said for those that take the road less traveled—it often makes for a more interesting and fulfilling life!

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15 Things to Do After Graduating College

Deciding what to do after graduating college may seem straightforward, but there are so many opportunities that you can take advantage of! Here are some options for those who want to explore the world and discover more about themselves and their potential:

1. Take a gap year

A gap year can be just what you need after college.

If you have decided to pursue additional education, like graduate school, or know which jobs you’ll start applying for directly out of college, consider taking a year to pursue other interests, travel, and/or add to your resume. It will be time to reflect, recharge, and try new things! There are a variety of program providers that offer incredible gap year experiences.

2. Study abroad

You may not think of studying abroad when brainstorming what to do after college since, traditionally, studying abroad is an opportunity offered while you’re still in school. However, there are many opportunities for college graduates to further their education overseas!

Both short-term and longer academic experiences are available to post-grads, and your degree will open even more doors when it comes to selecting and getting into a program of your choice. You could also earn academic credit to apply to another degree!

3. Attend a language school

Along the same lines as studying abroad, if you’re interested in learning a new language and becoming even more competitive in the job market, attending an international language school could help you achieve your competency goals. By attending a language school abroad and surrounding yourself with native speakers of the language you’d like to learn, you’ll be fluent in no time!

4. Become an entrepreneur

Are you full of innovative ideas and ready to make your mark on the world? Don’t be afraid to try your hand at being a small business owner, inventing something new, or diving into entrepreneurship. If the idea of being your own boss sounds good to you, take some time post college to do your research, gather what you’ll need to get started, and seek support from your network.

5. Intern abroad

If you’re looking for work experience plus the chance to travel, you can’t beat an internship abroad.

Looking to get a bit of experience under your belt prior to entering the workforce? An international internship could be the right option for you. An internship abroad will allow you to learn more about your field, develop important skills you can apply in future work, and expand your network on an international scale.

You could also try an internship in an area you want to learn more about or secure a paid internship in order to explore a destination on your bucket list. Think outside of the box when deciding what to do after graduating college to make the most of this time of discovery and personal growth!

6. Get TEFL-certified and teach abroad

Pursuing a TEFL or similar certification in order to teach English abroad is a great option for those looking to travel while also making a living while abroad. With a TEFL certification and a college degree, you will be a competitive applicant for English teaching jobs around the world.

As a teacher abroad, you can make money while fully immersing yourself in a new culture. You’ll have free time to explore your new surroundings and not have to worry as much about budget.

A TEFL experience could launch you on a career in education, but you can also apply the skills you gain during your time in another country to other jobs. Once you’re ready to start teaching, browse international teaching jobs and programs.

7. Volunteer abroad

Wondering what to do after college? Why not volunteer?!

When brainstorming ideas for what to do after college graduation, consider giving your time to a worthy cause. There are nonprofits, NGOs, and other organizations aiding communities across the globe in need of volunteers.

Regardless of your skillset, there’s an opportunity out there for you! Many organizations will provide volunteers with accommodation and time to explore the area. Find a fulfilling volunteer program that meets your unique requirements.

8. Consider the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps

The Peace Corps and AmeriCorps (like a domestic version of the Peace Corps) also offer college graduates a unique opportunity to give back while furthering their careers. While you’re technically volunteering and aiding in community service projects, you are paid a stipend/living allowance on a Peace Corps or AmeriCorps program. In some cases, room and board is also provided.

As an alum of one of these programs, you could qualify for scholarships to pursue a graduate degree or use the money to pay back student loans. A Peace Corps or AmeriCorps experience could also kickstart your career, with many alumni being offered full-time positions after their term of service has ended.

9. Prepare for graduate school

Take the time to prepare for graduate school so you set yourself up for success.

If graduate school is on your mind, take the time you have immediately after college to do some prep work. It takes time and energy to find which graduate schools may be the best fit, study for and complete any required tests like the GRE, and prepare financially. Celebrate your recent degree, which is a significant accomplishment, and give yourself time to find the best graduate program for you!

10. Pursue your passions with short-term entry-level jobs

If you do need to jump right into the workforce, consider short-term entry-level jobs that align with your passions and interests. This is a great way to try out a field—you may find you’re very skilled or enjoy your work so much that you’d like to give a longer contract or position a try.

Short contacts and entry-level jobs are also a great way to make money while enjoying this time in your life. You’re not making a huge commitment but still working toward your long-term goals.

11. Find seasonal work

Seasonal work is one type of shorter-term job. Whether trying your hand at hospitality in a tourist destination or giving ski lessons during the winter, seasonal work can provide the freedom and flexibility you need at this time in your life.

Seasonal work is a great way to meet people, learn and try new things, and discover a bit more about yourself. There are many types of seasonal jobs available year-round around the world!

12. Sign up for an adventure travel program

Now’s the moment to tap into your sense of adventure.

An adventure travel program is what it sounds like—an unforgettable long- or short-term experience abroad, often guided, that will leave you with memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Consider one of these adventure travel programs when thinking about what to do after college. You won’t regret seizing the chance to travel while you don’t have as many responsibilities and are young and healthy enough to take advantage of all of the activities offered.

13. Spend time with your family

Even if you went to a college locally, your time in school may have created distance between you and your family. Celebrate your accomplishments together and think about using the time you have after college to be with them. You’ll never regret more time spent with your loved ones.

14. Take a public service position

Taking a public service position could be a great way to get a foot in the door if you’re interested in government and/or politics. It’s also a great way to serve your community and gain experience for any job you take down the road!

15. Discover the great outdoors, even in your own backyard

Make the most of life after college and explore the world.

Take time after college to reconnect with nature. When was the last time you went hiking? Camped out in the backyard under the stars?

Perhaps a road trip is in your future, or a journey to a more far-off land. This time in your life, without added responsibility and strict time-off policies, could be the best opportunity you will have to travel.

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Make the most of your life after college!

The more you expand your worldview, the more you’ll realize how much there is to discover. Make the most of your life by becoming a citizen of the world, expanding your international network, and gaining skills you’ll use long after your gap year, volunteer experience, internship—whatever you decide to do.

Considering alternate paths to take after graduating college will only benefit you in the long run and could also benefit your family and community. When thinking about what to do after college, get excited because you’re just starting on an epic adventure!