As I packed my luggage for college, I realized how quickly the past 3 years have gone by. My senior year has just begun, and I know this is the time to start seriously planning my life after grad school. I know the transition from college to the real world can be difficult and confusing, but hopefully this article will make it easier for both you and me.

There are two paths that a lot of people choose to take after graduation that you may want to consider.

Find a Job

This is probably the most expected step for recent graduates to take. At this point, we’ve gained knowledge in a particular field, and we can use that as a way to get hands-on experience. This option opens us to a new world: the world of applying for a job. I haven’t reached this place yet, but from what I have heard, I can tell it’s not easy. Finding a job means that you must go through the process of applying, interviewing, possibly relocating, and much more. Some people are able to secure a job before graduation, but for others, it can take months.

Go back to school

What can you do after you graduate? Go back to school! Many people chose continue their higher education after getting their bachelor’s degree. You can get a master’s degree, a doctorate degree, or even another bachelor’s degree. Some career paths require additional time in college, such as medical school or law school. Typical tests you would have to take as part of the admissions application are the MCAT, LSAT, GRE, and the GMAT. People go back to college so they can gain additional knowledge in their field, which increases their earning potential.

Obviously, there is not a single path for everybody, so feel free to explore other options that aren’t as traditional. Here are some other choices you can make.

Volunteer

If there was ever an organization you wanted to volunteer for, this is the time to do it. After graduation, your schedule will be all freed up, giving you the opportunity to explore different passions.

Travel

Most colleges do offer study abroad programs, but maybe you didn’t chose to do that. Or it’s possible that you did study abroad and you want to go back to a place you loved. If you do not have too many obligations, which you probably won’t after graduating, this could be a perfect time to explore some new places.

Start a Business

Now this one might sound crazy, but people have done it. Earlier, I wrote about Passion Planner, a company started by Angelia Trinidad, who started her business right after she graduated. Starting a business can be can major commitment, but it is quite possible that it will succeed. There are many resources and mentors that can make the process easier for you. If you have an idea for a business you want to start, don’t be discouraged; this could be the perfect time to start.

Graduating college is a huge accomplishment, and we should make sure we celebrate this achievement. After you graduate college, there are so many options to consider. It’s also important for you to make the best choices for yourself. No two people are going to take the same path, but with the right amount of preparation and perseverance, you’ll be just fine.