How to Deal With the One Question College Seniors Fear Most
Six words that bring out the stress in college seniors: “What are your post grad plans?”
As if the door of reality that’s boldly labeled ADULTHOOD and ENDLESS RESPONSIBILITIES wasn’t knocking loudly enough, people constantly ask about post graduation plans that seem to remind seniors of the little time left to get professionally advance themselves. Many inquire about the direction a student will take with their new success of attaining a degree with no harm and genuine curiosity. However many fail to realize the simple inquisitive question is loaded with pressure.
The real answer that many students have to the question of what may be planned for post grad is that most are still figuring it out.
While the direction of grad or law school may be clear for some after four years, many students are just hoping to be able to find a job to support themselves while they figure out the next move. In the midst of senioritis, when you’re awake in the crunch hour trying to get those last assignments submitted on time or dragging yourself out of bed to make it to the 8am you thought would be a breeze, post- grad plans can add more stress and overwhelm you when you’re simply looking forward to graduation day.
A better question to ask a graduating senior is one that is more focused on how the student may feel or one that inquires about their personal wellbeing. Allow the student to invite you into a conversation of their next endeavors once they feel secure and comfortable. You wouldn’t ask a newly married couple, “So when are you going to have a baby?” because they’re still basking in the new chapter of their life and trying to figure out themselves now as a married unit amongst a crowd of spectators, the same consideration should be given to a graduating senior.
Signed,
An Understanding Senior