Post-grad in a Mid-pandemic world

DePaul Graduation 2021

Graduating into the world mid-pandemic wasn't something anyone expected. Both the classes of 2020 and 2021 had the world pulled out from under them, and told that it would all be fine.

Over a year of classes online, not seeing our peers, and cancelled internships its hard to know where our futures might lead us. We've missed out on many lasts; last sorority formal, last basketball game, last days of school, graduations. While everyone has had some level of hardship from this pandemic, the struggle of trying to join the work force is one that is staring many in the face as this pandemic continues. We are constantly hearing about the labor shortage, yet me and my peers have sent out countless emails and applications only to hear nothing at all. We want to work, and we have a lot to contribute but it often feels like we are doing something wrong. Either we are missing that internship experience (it got cancelled), we don't have previous experience, or we are being asked to do 3 jobs under one title. It can feel like an impossible situation.

These last few months since graduating I have taken on a part time job as a host to bulk up my savings account, took on an opportunity as a day of coordinator for a wedding planning company to gain experience in the events industry, and spent time at my family's cabin trying to envision my future. The work experiences I have gotten have been invaluable through either the connections I've made through them, or the experiences I have had while on the job. I am left wondering if it will all pay off. Will these experiences help me meet my long term goals?

I know many students have struggled as their academic careers have come to a close from their childhood bedrooms, and I am hopeful that we will all find our way as we move forward. I am so excited to continue seeking out professional opportunities for myself, and to support my friends in all their endeavors as well.