What is Life After School (going to be) like? Part 3

I recently had a conversation with my friend P, who is 23 years old and has just graduated from The Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye. P has completed her undergraduate studies and is now embarking on a new chapter in life, filled with a mixture of anticipation, uncertainties, and various emotions. During our conversation, P shared her thoughts and reflections on how she feels now that she has become a graduate, she talked about the unique challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Let me now convey our discussion and describe her current emotions during this period of transition.

Maybe, just maybe, you’ll find some relief and feel less pressured.

Did You Graduate with an After-School Plan?

Yes I did. But trust me, God and life is the utmost planner.

Do You Miss Being in the University ?

Yes yes yes yes yes please yes

Why?

Being in the university helped me become myself, when I was little I was always told to be silent and not speak. Then I cowered and would always keep my thoughts to myself even when I was the smartest in the room. When I gained admission I then got exposed to saying what exactly was on your mind. The freedom and daily knowledge I gained is exactly what I would miss.

How did you feel when you wrote your final exam?

When I finished my final exam, I felt a great sense of freedom. It was like a weight was lifted off my shoulders. Although, I had mixed emotions like I was happy to be done with the stress and problems of school and I also felt a bit sad because I had to say goodbye to my classmates and friends that I had gotten close to during my time at university.

Do you think there’s something you could have done better that would have made your life after school experience a more figured out one?

I wished I had learnt something new in school like I had juggled a professional course in between but then it would have not been easy and I would have just sat on the fence. There’s a saying, “Jack of all trades, master of none.” So, even though I have a desire to have learned something new during my time in school, I recognize the importance of focusing on my main field of study to become an expert in that area.

Any pressures? (From family and from yourself)

None from my family. The pressure I am putting on myself is enough.

What kind of pressures are you putting on yourself?

I have goals and aspirations that I want to achieve at a certain age and I feel like time is running out so I’m just pushing myself to do more and be more. I have so many things to do. I want to own my own bakery and I have to start somewhere. Although, I’m already a chef but I also want to learn how to bake fulltime too,

One thing being a student taught you that’ll stay with you long after graduation and help you navigate through the real world?

I learnt patience , I was forced to learn to tolerate and deal with different personalities from various backgrounds and accept them as they are. I also learnt not to trust anyone no matter how nice they appear to be. Lastly I discovered that it’s only when you work real hard that you get results. Be confident in yourself. Do not fear people but respect them.

What are you mostly proud of?

Myself and getting through my toughest moments with lecturers that wanted to end me.

Do you think your life has just begun?

No I don’t , I feel fresh graduates need time to breathe before rushing into the real world.

How do you feel when people ask you “what next after school?”

There is a burden of pressure that comes upon me at that time because it’s just like they are expecting to see results

Do you think your academic experience has prepared you for the professional world?

Yes it has , in all ramifications.

Do you intend to pursue a career in line with your course of study? If not, why?

I do not intend in doing that . Firstly, I was not interested in the course given to me by my university so I just read to pass and I would now love to go after my passion .

How do you feel knowing that you studied a course you didn’t like?

When I got the course, I wasn’t happy at all. I just shut out my mind from it. Then I spoke to someone who encouraged me that I should make most of my time while I’m in school because 4 years isn’t an easy journey.

How do you feel generally?

I feel like an unemployed citizen.

If you could talk to a fellow recent graduate right now, what would you tell them?

Calm down, you won’t get it right at once and it might not be now. Trust God and work on yourself.

As you step into the real world, remember that success is not solely defined by what people expect from you. It is about finding fulfillment, happiness, and making a positive impact in anyway you can. Follow your heart and choose a path that aligns with your values and brings you joy. Embrace your uniqueness, for it is your greatest strength.

Stay persistent, even in the face of challenges and obstacles. Every great accomplishment requires commitment and perseverance. Hard work pays, my friend. Trust that each step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals.