Student Blog: The Big Question: 'What Do You Want To Do After College?'

The question that burdens every college student. Regardless of grade level, it is unavoidable. Family, adults, and strangers alike hear the word "college" and automatically ask about graduation plans. For many, the sheer mention of graduation causes panic and anxiety. If we are in college to study and pursue a career we are passionate about, why are we so afraid of the big question?

The fear of graduating dawns on every student at least once in their college career. Whether it was when you failed your first exam, accidentally slept late and missed a final, or contemplated switching majors. Feeling inadequate is something many students empathize with on a personal level. Between the shadows of self-doubt and fears of the future, it is no wonder college students hate to hear the question "so, what do you want to do after college?"

MAKING A DECISION

While college courses prepare us for success in future jobs, they often neglect to educate us on what types of jobs are out there. For example, I applied to college as a public relations major and theatre arts minor. Coming out of high school, I knew that I loved theatre but did not want to be a performance major. So, I made a tough decision to major in a topic that felt more fitting to my personality. While I sat in my public relations courses freshman year, I often felt I ruined my chances of having a career in theatre because of that decision. That was until I learned about theatrical publicity.

I grew tired of feeling lost and helpless. More so, I resented the broken record I became just constantly saying "I don't know what I want to do after college." With such diverse careers in the theatre industry, I knew the perfect job was out there somewhere. I just needed to find it. Thanks to the many virtual resources at my fingertips, not only did I find out about theatrical publicity, but I discovered hundreds of theatre jobs I never imagined.

THE JOB SEARCH

From theatrical publicity agents to production managers and outreach coordinators, the possibilities are endless! If you are interested in math, look into pursuing a financial advising career in the theatre industry. Do you consider yourself a people person? Take some time to research the different types of human resources jobs in theatre. Here are three helpful resources for getting started on the job search.

1. BroadwayWorld.com - Jobs Page
2. Playbill.com - Jobs Page
3. Youtube - Search for people with theatre jobs! (Who doesn't love a good "A Day in My Life" video?)

Regardless if you don't know what industry you want to work in, it all starts with figuring out what you are passionate about. Life is too short to not be doing what makes you happy. Gain a sense of control in your life by doing research to find out what jobs inspire you, then take the next steps to achieve your goals. The theatre world, like many other industries, is filled with opportunity, so continue to educate yourself on the possibilities and strive to seize them.