Why am I scared to go into the real world?

Question

I am in college so I consider myself semi grown up, but within the nex couple of years I hopefully will be greaduating and finding a job. I have a job right now its a good job but I don't want to stay in this position. I am scared that when I graduate i won't be able to find anything and all that time and money will be for nothing especially considering my major is Communications. I just don't want to graduate and be stuck in the same place I am now. I guess I just need some happy thoughts and that with time I will get over my insecurities and be able to make something of myself.

Answer 1

Don't worry, you're not alone in feeling that way as many university graduates often worry about what their future job prospects are.

Look for co-op programs and ask your instructors about the field of communications to get some idea of what the job market is like.

Also, see if your college has any career counsellors who might be able to give you some advice.

During the summer also see if there are any government-funded career exploration programs which offer workshops. Taking one might help you develop a better focus on where you want to aim for a career with regards to your Communications major. Trust me, I've taken a few myself, and they really helped give me a better perspective on where I want to go.

Another option is to volunteer in your spare time, perhaps with a non-profit charitable organization or with something related to your interest. You may find yourself developing new interests, contacts or discovering possible fields in which you can apply your degree.

Answer 2

There are lots of areas of your life in which you can make something of yourself. The important thing is that you do good deeds and are happy, not that you are financially successful. Success might mean having a good relationship, being respected by others, being creative, doing work which is valuable to the world or caring for others, and work doesn't have to be paid to be worth doing. Concerning your degree, what you have learned is worthwhile and interesting for its own sake and it can't be taken away from you. It's given you a new way of looking at the world.

I can understand that you might be afraid of not being valued or of being poor. I suppose one antidote to not being recognised is to find a spiritual path that is right for you, or if you're not of that bent, to find a way of looking at the world that you find meaningful. Concerning poverty, i am personally very poor, so i can speak from experience here when i say that given the choice between money and possessions on the one hand and having my fantastic marriage, wonderful children, friends who stick by me and work which makes a real difference to people's lives, i know what i'd choose.

There is also a phenomenon called the quarter life crisis, where people who have recently left college feel nostalgia for the old days, loneliness, have financial difficulties, feel frustrated by seeming not to get anywhere in the world, disappointed by their work, insecure and think everyone else is doing better than them. You have had the foresight to see this coming, and if you've got that, that same foresight will see you right in the world after graduation. You can congratulate yourself that you have seen it coming and can plan for it. Even if your plans fail, you'll know that you did your best.

There's a really cruddy film from the 'eighties called 'St Elmo's Fire' which is about this issue. You could try watching it, but the title is probably enough. The real St Elmo's fire is a glow that used to appear on the masts of old sailing ships which looks like fire but isn't. The anxiety which you feel may be similar. It's about real stuff, but it isn't as serious as your ship actually being on fire, and it won't destroy you.

Answer 3

I was in your shoes not to long ago. Your feelings are typical. I missed college life for about a year or so after graduation but you will get over it after awhile. I also though that I couldn't get a good job either.... I would suggest while you are still in college to try to get various internships or part time jobs to give you a better idea of what you would possiblely want to do or find out what you don't want to do. do. Communications sounds like a nice major to keep you marketable in various fields. If you work hard and do a good job at whatever position your currently doing you won't be stuck in a dead end position, people will notice and opportunites will open up.

Answer 4

Hey sister, once you get out there you'll never want to turn back. You are on the right track already, being in college. With that being said, I know that you have somewhat of a good head on your shoulders.

In many cases, while you are finishing up college, you will be offered an opportunity for a position through internships and job placement programs. You'll have a lot of help.

Have your fun now while in college, but keep your nose in the books. You will have more responsibilities after you get out on your own, but simple things like paying your bills on time and making sure you get to work. It's not quite as stressful as cramming for exams and the pressure of excelling on tests and assignments. If you get through all of that you'll have no problems in the "real world".

Answer 5

because you think you're not in the real world. focuson your school and when time comes you 'll have many option to choose from. instead of wondering why you're scared why don't you wonder where you see your self in a couple of years. go to career center in your college hopefully they'll help you to figure out. ask people tha you know what they are doing how happy they are with their jobs. make research on internet and see what are you options and which one would be best for you

Answer 6

Most people feel that way when they anticipate leaving school for the "real world." Have you visited the career center or counseling offices of your school? They're good resources for helping you find a job after school and helping you with the transition from student to "worker bee."

Whatever you do, good luck! I'm sure you'll be fine...

Answer 7

Yah, communications is a crappy major to be in if you want a job. I used to be one myself. I decided to sell out for the money and switch to Business/Accounting and it served me well.

If you are looking for advice, the best way to get your foot in the door if you are looking for a better job is to make yourself known while you are still in college. If your school has a job faire or on-campus organizations that interface regularly with professionals in the area you wish to work in, you should get in with their lot right NOW. That way, when they see your resume, they will think "i remember her from *insert event*" instead of "yawn, another resume." Hope this helps!

Answer 8

The unknown may be disconcerting at times. By accepting ones weaknesses, adapting and improvising it helps strengthen ones ability to overcome imagined obstacles.

Answer 9

i have the same problem..i'm in college too and i'm asking myself if i would be able to find a good job after graduating....i think you need to know the right people who can help you...

Answer 10

Don't worry about stuff that hasn't happened.
Communications is a great major to get along with people. Those people were always good at speeches, etc.