What's next?
The big question right now: what's next?
A couple of weeks ago, I finished my studies at the University. After years of pushing myself, of being around this campus, of handing in assignments and writing up lecture notes, it still has not completely sunk in. This has placed me at the crucial point in the crossroads where I must make a decision about my future. But there is an abundance of options for what I could do. Do I continue into further postgraduate studies at this university? Do I enter the realm of full-time employment? Or—and this is looking most likely—do I muster the courage to make the Big Move that would be essential for my dream career?
It often feels that I am surrounded by successful people who have so much security in their futures. They possess a plan of attack that they know how to stick to. I have friends who have happily just moved to Canada to work in the snow; peers who will be embarking on exciting research in PhD programs; and a sister who has recently been admitted to the bar and can practice as a lawyer. These people in my life (who I am so proud of!) seem to hold the answers... but maybe they were just as confused as some point in time.
Because I am conflicted about the future. I have enjoyed my time in my comfort zone. The future is a scary, unknowable place—and I tend to prefer that which is scary and knowable. There are so many things that I could potentially do, but that feels debilitating. And, for all the options I do have, are all the dreams I have to discard. Plans that rely on funds, resources, and skills that I simply do not have.
I have had to spend the last few months discussing this topic with my friends, family, peers, and teachers. Turns out many people are confused about what's next. Even those who I incorrectly assumed had a helpful five year plan for their future have had to spend lots of time considering what they wanted to do.
And that's okay! That is an exciting moment; to be able to choose what you do next. Perhaps instead of focusing on the fear of decision, I will embrace this thrilling question. Done with uni, there are many possibilities ahead of me. What's next?