As another school year comes closer to an end, those in their last year of studies begin to look forward to their graduation date. Though the idea of finally finishing classes and being able to move forward will undoubtedly have its perks, the transition from student to full-time adult will pose some unforeseen challenges, especially for international students.
At ISO, we are built by international students and all of us have experienced these challenges after finally becoming college graduates. To better help you prepare, here are 5 tips you should know prior to graduating.
Tip #1:
You can’t start preparing for post-grad too early
Things moves quickly when you’re busy, which is why many people feel like their years in college pass by in a breeze. Time is sacred while you’re in school and this resonates true during your last year of study. Therefore, it’s imperative to begin your preparations for finding a job or applying for grad school early in your college process.
Many employers in the U.S. who are looking for college students ramp up applications during the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters. If you are looking to line up a job and relieve the stress of finding one before exams come around, then make sure to take advantage as early as you can in the school year.
In addition, you shouldn’t be looking to get references and stack your resume just during senior year. Start this process as soon as you arrive to school and you’ll be dealing with a lot less stress than saving it all for the last minute.
Tip #2:
Take things at your own pace
Though it’s smart to prepare early, you have a multitude of paths you can take as you go through your journey in the U.S. and you’ll undoubtedly run into some bumps along the road. This can cause immense pressure since international students are given less time to think things over due to visa deadlines.
However, F1 visa holders have a 60-day grace period after the completion date on their I-20 to figure things out before you’ll be required to move back to your home country (30-day grace period for J1). This will give you time to think things over if you’re behind and unsure.
Even if you need to return home to contemplate your future, it’s important not to get too discouraged if you find yourself behind your peers in terms of applying to jobs, getting your degree, etc. Take things at your own pace and don’t let comparison be the thief of your joy.
Tip #3:
Take advantage of the time before you start to work
It’s an under looked part but for many, college graduation marks the first time in your life you are no longer considered a student. This can be intimidating and the stress to have something lined up after graduation can often make it feel like you’re jumping directly into this new chapter with no time to breathe.
If you have some time after graduation before you begin your job or new program, it’s incredibly important to take advantage of this free time. This is a common period for graduates to try to travel, pick up a new hobby, or begin to set up side hustles.
No matter what, this period post-graduation might be the last time you’ll have an extended period of free time for years. Make sure to take advantage if you’re afforded the opportunity.
Tip #4:
Keep up with your network, even if you’re far away
Beyond your studies, building your professional network is one of the most important things you should do during your time in school. Having strong, lasting relationships with professors, club leaders, etc. is key to finding new opportunities and having quality references for jobs moving forward.
Though you’ll generate new references once you become a professional, you’ll see as you go through your career that you can never have too large of a network. Make sure to send your connections an email or phone call occasionally, or even just connect on LinkedIn. You never know when they can help you into the future!
The same is also true for friends you make during school. You’ll see it’s harder to meet new people once you get out of school and are away from the large population of people your age. Keep up with your friends and make sure your social network is adding quality as the quantity inevitably decreases.
Tip #5:
Be prepared for the new changes to your budget
Though you probably have some experience budgeting as a college student, you need to make sure you’re prepared for the challenges that come with managing your money as a young professional. Once you get a job, those first few paychecks will feel great, but you’ll quickly realize that expenses add up expeditiously once you’re out of school.
In general, a good rule of thumb is to try to keep monthly expenses to 50% of the amount you take home per month. This way you still have half of your income you can use for yourself or use to save. Though it’s tempting to spend, you should always make sure to save some money every month to set yourself up for the future.
You can use apps like Mint or Pocketguard to help stay on top of your budget or review other options here. It’s your preference on the way you choose to budget your money, but the most important thing to remember is to be consistent and hold yourself accountable.
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