What to do Now You've Finished University

Dissertation deadline day AKA most stress relieving moment of our lives.

I don't officially graduate from University until November, but finishing my degree and receiving my grades has left me in a bit of a funk for what to do next.  A 'graduand', some might call this period of time, but I just call it in limbo.  I've finished, but haven't got the certificate to prove it, and most mornings I wake up with the thought 'what the hell am I doing with my life?!'.  

To calm my own mind, and hopefully some of yours who might be feeling the same, I've put together a little list of ideas 'what to do next...'.  Although I probably won't be able to solve all of our problems (trust me, I wish I could!), hopefully I can give you some inspiration.

1. Re-do your CV

Having an up to date CV is essential when it comes to taking the plunge and applying for jobs. Although it appears to be a boring task, think of it as a way to reflect over everything amazing you have achieved over the past few years (and plus, being able to write 'Graduate' is the best feeling ever).

2. Apply for jobs.

Unfortunately, the next step is a given.  Even if you're not applying for jobs that will lead you into your chosen career, a part-time retail or pub job will give you the few extra pennies you need to enjoy the rest of summer (or start bailing you out of that massive overdraft Uni has left you with...guilty!).  Having a job has also given me a proper routine.  Lounging around the house for a couple of weeks after finishing your degree is definitely allowed, but it soon gets boring when you realise there are no friends to lounge with you, because they all have jobs.

My holiday in July to Gozo, Malta.

3. Book a holiday.

You've just finished a gruelling final year, so why not take the opportunity to treat yourself by booking a holiday!  Drink cocktails by the pool, top up your non-existent tan and most of all, give yourself some well-earned rest after all that time spent in the library cramming.

Visit somewhere you've always wanted to go.

4. Go travelling

Although I was totally ready to leave University life behind in June, I've decided to put the 9-5 life off for a little longer and instead, go travelling and see the world.  I know tropical paradises exist (I've seen the Facebook photos!), but I'd like to see it all for myself.  Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, I'm coming for you!

Fresh flowers always brighten up any space!

5. Spring clean your life

Moving back home has made me realise how much 'stuff' I've been hoarding.  After a proper cull of
my belongings, I'm feeling SO much better about the space I live in.  It was a lengthy process, but all worth it in the end.  The phrase, tidy space, tidy mind, has never been so relevant.

6. Enjoy life and don't fret.

Everything will fall into place, in time.  This is the only time in our lives that we'll be living rent free, be looking for a job, and for it to be 100% OK to be in this position.  Enjoy life and don't stress!


So there we have it, my tips on what to do when you've just finished your degree, and like me, are feeling in a bit of a rut with life.

What are you doing now that you have finished Uni?