Today, as you wear the coveted cap and gown, you take your second most important walk….across the stage, that bridge to the next phase of your life. And if you are one who lives in an area where the odds were supposed to be against you, you WON! Congratulations! Go on and brush your shoulders off! (And don’t forget to thank the folks who supported your journey).
Next ‘Steps’?
Stay actively involved in shaping your future. Of course have some fun but don’t settle as a “drifter” through life. Drifters just float through life and watch things happen instead of making things happen. You’re about to get your diploma or have just graduated high school – you ARE great. So have the audacity to continue the journey towards a better life for yourself. Here’s a checklist of things you should consider or already be doing:
1. If you are heading straight to college, congratulations! Hopefully you have some idea about what to expect in college; if not chat with those who have graduated college. I had a ball in college; it was a tad bumpy at first but my friends put me in check…and I graduated. You, too, will make new friends and establish a professional network of support. Have fun but stay focused – even when things get a little tough – stay focused. Do whatever it takes to make your third most important walk of your life!
2. If you have chosen not to go to college, at least for now, and you already know what your talent/passion/purpose is you can still take steps toward fulfilling your goals. Continue to seek professional guidance – ask to speak with an advisor at the career center in your community, attend career fairs in your area, or if you know someone who is already doing what you would like to pursue, ask them for guidance, an internship or the opportunity to work with them.
3. If you are unsure about what your talent or passion is, it is truly ok….for now. Just look at this moment as an incredible opportunity to BEGIN to discover your purpose. Continue to contemplate: Who am I? What do I want out of life? What is my purpose for being here (in this life)? What is my talent – how do I want to contribute to humanity? In the meantime….
4. Find employment. Having a job shows maturity, responsibility, discipline and drive. Whether you find work in your chosen field of interest (even if it is an internship), or a job at the community center, movie theater, grocery store, pet shop, department store, restaurant, park, day care center, hospital, the community pool/day camp, the key is to get work experience. Don’t forget to keep a log as you gain work experience - name of employer, address, phone number, your title, duties; your log will help you in building a solid resume and job references. Briefly, be open to learn from your employers and co-workers, respect guidelines for conduct, have a team mentality, work to the best of your ability and you should have no problem securing viable references!
I have to interject: Please do not have the ‘it’s just a paycheck’ mentality. You are providing a service and should be paid based for your performance. If you must quit a job, try to do it with integrity and grace….don’t ‘burn bridges’ (unless of course the relationship was absolutely disgusting and abusive). Your experience will haunt you and affect every job you take on, unless you somehow make peace with the past situation.
5. Last but not least, open a bank account…. And save! We really do not want you to inherit today’s debt…in your future! We want you to be able to take care of yourself regardless of the times.
Teen Task: 1. See June 2010 blog for summer safety tips. 2. Discuss this blog with your parents or with those you feel safe sharing your thoughts.
~ Quelyn
Copyright©2011 Quelyn Purdie
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