It’s Friday, so it’s time for another segment of Ask GU. This week’s questions seemed aligned with this time of year: graduation. If you don’t know, our GU team is filled with recent graduates, so we’re not too far removed from what it feels like to have pre and post-graduation jitters. Throughout that season, it can feel like so many things are changing.
There’s no need to worry, though. Your virtual bestie is here, and we can get through this together. The bright side of feeling the blues during grad season is that you are not alone. This cycle is completely normal, and you can easily find someone who understands your situation. As you head to class, open your laptop and sip your Stanley cup, dive into the questions this week, and hopefully, we will help you feel heard.
Remember to participate in our weekly advice column. Ask your questions every Monday to potentially participate in the next conversation.
Read ‘Ask GU: Asking For Help And Beating Valentine’s Day Blues’
How do I break into the industry as I outgrow my recent grad phase?
GU: For any industry you want to be a part of, it’s important to seek out your tribe. When you have a community of people working in the same field as you, there’s a support system of people to lean on. It can often feel intimidating or like a quiet competition when someone in your friend group is ahead in their career. Still, it can be easier for others to break into the industry because now you know somebody. Now, it’s understandable to feel like you don’t have a strong network, but luckily, we have social media. Don’t be afraid to shoot your shot professionally. If you follow someone who works in your field and you admire them, email or DM them asking to set up a Zoom meeting to chat and pick their brain. The worst thing anyone could say is no; after that, you move on to the next person. Post-grad life can seem like forever, but it will get better. You have to continue putting yourself out there.
Can we talk about the importance of mental health in college?
GU: Your mental health in college is probably the most critical time to take your emotional wellness seriously. The environment can take a toll on you as you embark on a new social scene, take multiple classes, graduate, and start dating or relationships. There are so many things coming at you at once you must have at least one person to talk to when you mentally feel a decline start to happen. It’s not taboo to speak about the moments when you don’t feel like yourself or are starting to have dark thoughts. College can be brutally overwhelming, and students deserve a safe campus space.
How do you stay encouraged as a journalist?
GU: There are many moments when we look online and see these massive layoffs and grow anxious about the state of journalism for the next generation. The most significant piece of advice to remember during times like this is to let your great ideas fuel you. The harsh reality of layoffs and the demanding freelance life are never going away. Still, those unique ideas can be the driving force behind your next internship, fellowship, or full-time position.