The days leading up to my graduation from Anderson University were some of the busiest of my life. I was working as the editor of Ivy Leaves, cranking out final projects, finalizing plans for graduate school, saying yes to every opportunity to spend time with friends, and trying to figure out where on Earth I’d live after graduation. I had no job lined up, and, in true AU fashion, I was planning my upcoming wedding. I’m getting overwhelmed just writing about it all now.

All of that to say, I thought very little about how I’d feel after graduating. I was eager to cross that finish line, and I was desperate for a break.

I graduated from Anderson University on May 3rd, 2024. I walked across the stage, shook President Whitaker’s hand, and even had the chance to pet Silver, the white horse who traditionally walks in the graduation procession. I’d made it! Finished at last!

That night, I packed my life into my Toyota Highlander and high-tailed it down I-95 to my hometown of Florence, SC. I lugged my suitcase up the stairs to my childhood bedroom, took a seat on my bed, and finally, finally took a deep breath.

I was a college graduate.

I was excited for everything to come, and certainly proud of my accomplishment, but my primary thought was of how oddly quiet everything felt.

There were no roommates fumbling around in the kitchen downstairs, dancing around one another as they each attempted to cook their dinners at the same time.

There were no GroupMe notifications, pinging at all hours of the night as friends poked fun at one another. No texts of “Anyone want to grab Troy’s?” No emails, no deadlines, no papers left to write.

My world stood still, and the panda bear on my Canvas dashboard was soundly asleep.

In that moment of silence, I had only one question: “What ON EARTH comes next?!”

Those days, weeks, and months following my gradation felt like I was building a life from scratch. I had to remember how I liked to spend my free time, how to create my own schedule, how to connect with friends from a distance, and how to start being an adult. Luckily, I had people around me who had lived through these same experiences, and they were able to advise me in the process. With their help, I felt like I had a sort of roadmap for the process. Even when the journey was bumpy, I knew I wasn’t alone. Now, I hope to pass that same roadmap on to you.

This series on the blog, Post-Grad 101, is where I’ll share everything I know. We’ll be posting a Post-Grad 101 story every month until spring graduation, with hopes that reading these pieces will help you discern your next right step.

Sharpen your pencils and take your seats, because class is now in session.