Leaving college for the real world

They say time flies when you’re having fun.

As my final semester as a third level student fast approaches I find myself increasingly worried about things I never even had to consider before; preparing CV’s, applying for jobs, my FYP and the gut-wrenching thought of my college life soon becoming nothing but a distant memory.

The dreaded question seemingly on the tip of everyone’s tongue ‘So, what exactly are you going to be doing after college?” instils the fear of God in me and the perplexed look on people’s faces when I tell them I’m not entirely sure is enough to almost send me over the edge.

 My ever-changing emotions about leaving the comfort zone of uni life and going out into the big bad world is giving me whiplash. One minute I’m excited about what the future holds and the opportunities and prospects it undoubtedly has in store for me, both personally and professionally. The next minute I’m genuinely wondering how I will function as a fully “growed up” human being in the real world with a real job. It’s all oh so confusing. I’m sad that I’m finishing. I’m happy that I’m finishing. How can one be so happy and yet so sad at the same time? That bittersweet emotion tastes so strange.

Here are the five things I’m feeling as the final semester edges closer:

1.   A burning desire to never have to complete a college assignment again

This all too common thought is repeated again and again throughout final year. Now that I’m half way there and one semester away from completing essays, final year projects, presentations and all nighters I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

2. The motivation to apply for every single job going

 

The sheer panic and fear that you might not get a job after four years of hard work is enough to make you apply for every single job you come across. Sure a degree in journalism might not be equivalent to a degree in engineering but what’s the harm in applying…

3.   The temptation to punch anyone who asks you about your future 

Jobs, masters, post-grad programmes…if one more person asks me what I’m planning on doing once I leave college I may not be held responsible for my actions.

4.     The idea of hiding under my duvet and never surfacing again seems more appealing every day

The thought of getting a real life proper job is overwhelming at the best of times and some days staying in bed in my own little bubble and never ever ever ever leaving it seems like a good plan.

5.    Shock that this is my life

Sometimes it's all a bit much to take in; I’m about to graduate, with an actual degree. Life is about to start happening. I’m just going to let that sink in.