WHEN a student’s sweat, tears and sacrifices finally pay off, graduation brings a wave of relief. But does it end there — or is it where the real struggle begins?
Graduation marks one of the biggest milestones in a student’s life. One chapter ends, another begins. But what comes next?
Many graduates ask, “What is life after graduation?” For some, the path is clear; for others, it’s filled with questions. Some move forward to college, while others stop and start working due to life circumstances.
Rosemarie Apao, a Cebu Normal University (CNU) graduate and now a teacher, shared, “Many students like to continue college, but due to financial constraints, they have no choice but to work. However, some graduates, especially those who have no career goals yet, prefer to rest or travel,” she explained.
For college graduates, the challenge deepens. They wonder whether to apply for a job or take time to rest and recover from academic burnout.
Teffany Wenceslao, a BS Education graduate from the University of Visayas Toledo and now a BPO employee, said, “Students’ immediate plans after graduation vary widely based on their goals, background and resources,” she said.
Rest, recharge
“Some go to travel to explore new culture and find new things, and some take some rest and recharge to recover from academic burnout,” Wenceslao added.
Graduation may bring relief for some — but for others, it feels like the beginning of a more difficult chapter. Feelings of pride and excitement mix with nervousness and uncertainty. Still, most feel a strong sense of accomplishment.
Shella De Guzman, a CNU graduate and now a teacher, said, “Relieved, after years of studying, exams and deadlines, graduation brings a sense of accomplishment and freedom.”
Christine Ella Fuentes, a senior high graduate from Lahug National High School (Night), also shared her emotions: “I felt excited and relieved since another chapter closed, but at the same time quite nervous about the next journey to go through,” she said.
After graduation, it’s normal to feel anything — relief, fear, joy, or anxiety. What matters is that you did it. The next steps may be uncertain, but as many graduates put it: “Malayo pa, pero malayo na.”
Graduation season may be over, but for the graduates, a new journey begins. Whether or not they’ve figured out what to do next, one thing is certain — congratulations and good luck on your next chapter!
Fiona Baritugo / Lahug National High School (Night)