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Are you ready for the world out there?

I like organization. I like planning. Knowing what is ahead of me is what keeps me sane and feeling on-track. Now, that doesn't mean that I don't ever cross the line and be spontaneous… but even then it is usually within a set parameter or comfort zone.

Approaching the end of my academic career, I find myself faced with the unknown. It scares me even more than all the work combined in my five years of post-secondary education, because there is only so far I can go planning and organizing. A lot is out of my power. When will I be getting a job? Will I even have a chance at a job? Do I want to work right away? All the questions are piling up and I find myself going back and forth between answers.

The option of taking off on vacation seems like a good break, and an opportunity that seems less than likely once I enter the workforce. Do I want to spend more money (which I have always been frugal with) for personal wellbeing, or try to dive straight into the reality of work life (which may not even happen right away)?

It is that liminal space that I have been dreading and avoiding, not having to face for a long time. It has always been in the back of my mind but has never had to be dealt with until the “future” or “down the road.” Except that time is now. There is no choice anymore but to face these big decisions and follow them wherever they may lead.

So where does this leave me? I know that a lot of factors are out of my hands, but I can make certain decisions based on what it is I do have the ability to control: concentrating on completing my school year and laying out the foundation with a good resume, a solid list of job prospects and professional contacts. These things I can and need to accomplish even if I decide to take off somewhere.

It is important to go through all your options and really think of what is best for you depending on your own situation. I know there is a lot of advice available, but nothing is tailored specifically for you. No one knows what you want or need as much as you. Do what you have to do, but don't jump at a decision because someone told you to. Listen to your instincts and experience.

Perhaps the biggest challenge is really saved for last, but it is a challenge that will lead to bigger and better things. Plan things out and experience things in the moment, life will throw all sorts of obstacles your way, but like I have been discovering... maybe a dose of the unexpected unknown is just what you need.