For the last 3 years, I have worked in the School of Worship Leadership at the University of Mobile. This school holds a special place in my heart, and I have gotten to work with some of the most talented students in the country. Seniors have recently graduated and I have witnessed a pattern of questions being asked to them. So, I saw an opportunity to write an informative blog.

5 THINGS TO NEVER ASK RECENT COLLEGE GRADUATES:

1. WHAT’S NEXT?
   Ok people. Chances are, they don’t really know what is next, and that is scary. They are applying for jobs, waiting for answers, or not sure what job offer to take. So…when you ask them what they’re doing after graduation, it makes them feel like absolute crap. (Sorry Mom, I said crap.) Just congratulate them and celebrate this milestone with them, without making them stress and worry over the unknown future.
2. ARE YOU GOING TO GET YOUR MASTER’S DEGREE?
   That’s another pressure question. If they want to get their Master’s, they will go pursue that. Whether or not they choose to further their education, cheer them on! Don’t get me wrong, I am all for higher education, but being pressured with this question brings more anxiety to the graduate than you might realize. Be their biggest fan…not their future planner.
3. CAN YOU ACTUALLY DO ANYTHING WITH THAT DEGREE?
   I’ve heard that said to students time and time again. Let’s not provoke any thoughts of regret or worry.
   Just don’t go there. I mean…would you want to be asked that?
4. DID YOU NOT WANT TO GET A DEGREE IN A FIELD WHERE YOU COULD MAKE MORE MONEY?
   Success is not measured by the amount of money you make. Obviously, they chose to go to school for what they are passionate about. In my opinion, we need more people pursuing their passions rather than paychecks. (Tweet that. That’s internet gold right there. Haha.)
5. YOU’RE ABOUT TO ENTER THE REAL WORLD. ARE YOU READY?
   Is anyone ever ready? Were you ready when you graduated college? Of course they know the real world is coming, but I’m not sure if there is really a way to prepare for it. If there is, let me know! 🙂 Just remember, these students have spent the last 16+ years in school. Encourage them. Support them. Let’s be their biggest cheerleaders!! They deserve it!

If you’re dying to ask a recent graduate any of these questions, at least wait a few months. Ok?

CONGRATS CLASS OF 2016

(You’ve got a huge fan)

Chase your dreams, and do whatever it takes to get there!

(Unless it involves drugs. Don’t do drugs.)