Dear Ms. Cabot,
I’m graduating next month and OH MY GOD I don’t know what to do! I will have at least a month free before I go back home to start “adulting.” Should I go somewhere? A couple of small trips? One really long trip? Should I do something productive and smart? Should I enjoy my last month of uselessness before I sell my soul to a corporate machine? HELP!
Sincerely,
About-to-snatch-that-diploma-and-run
Dear About-to-snatch-that-diploma-and-run,
First off. Congrats. You made it out of here! Well, almost. Don’t let senioritus get to you and then later regret the time you wasted! Secondly, yes, there are so many options but only one goal. What do you want from it? Do you want to be productive? Do you want to be inspired? Do you want to have fun? Answer these questions and then the right decision will come to you. Do something that will give you what you want.
Productivity? Okay, go volunteer in that program you heard about. Help the homeless, save the planet, tutor at-risk youth, teach refugees how to read, care for the elderly. Take that internship in that non-profit or company that you’ve always dreamed of working at. Make a difference. Impact someone’s life. Hone your skills and make the world a better place. Create a 5 year plan and do it. You will glean so much from helping others, and you’ll help yourself in the process.
Inspiration? Lace up your shoes and walk the Santiago Camino in Spain and find yourself! There is something spiritual about walking, it helps clear your mind, focus your soul, and quiets your spirit. Whether you’re religious or not, there is something to learn from seeking and walking alongside other pilgrims! The people you will meet along the way, the sights you will see, and the miles you will walk as you search your heart, mind, and soul for answers will inspire you like no other. This would definitely take up quite a bit of your month break, and besides finding yourself, you’ll probably gain some killer calf muscles!
Fun? Pick a city you haven’t been to, in a country you’ve never visited, pack a weekend bag and go explore. Alone or with friends, don’t plan, just go. Let the adventure find you. Get out of your comfort zone! The best and most fun times in our lives usually happen when we aren’t worried about the plan and just go with the flow. You might meet some amazing friends, gain new connections, and make the best decisions of your life by being spontaneous (but smart) and open-minded!
Through all of this, don’t forget. Be smart. Don’t be stupid. Be brave. Don’t be scared. Be bold. Don’t waste your time. Be creative. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
This is an important window in your life. You just accomplished something great. Reward your hard work. Enjoy your freedom. Channel what you seek into something amazing. Your time is short. So don’t let it pass you by.
Lastly, just be you.
Sincerely,
Ms. Cabot
The Matthew | John Cabot University 