When I decided to move East, I was very adamant that I would do all the things I had planned on doing in Minnesota. I graduated from college in August, with plans to continue to graduate school to study Marriage and Family Therapy. So, I signed up to take the GRE and applied to several universities. About a week before the move, I received an acceptance letter from my top choice school, so I registered for classes and was all ready to make my dreams a reality.
Then, I found myself unfulfilled. My classes were lackluster, I realized that it didn't fit my interests, and I learned that it would be hell to move my license to Minnesota when we move home. So, what now?
1. I considered all of my options.
I thought a lot about applying to other graduate programs before realizing that I didn't have a solid enough understanding of what I wanted to do; and, graduate school is too expensive to go into without a plan. So, I decided it was time to start looking for a full-time job.
2. Start looking at job listings (or whatever applies to your option)
I knew that I was interested in a creative field (I double majored in sociology and art in college), but didn't otherwise have a field in mind. So, I started browsing job listings to see which fields looked interested and which fields I seemed to match the requirements needed. I landed in the entry-level marketing field.
3. Update your resume and cover letter.
Make sure your education and experiences are up to date and that your resume is clear and readable. Update your cover letter and let your personality and enthusiasm shine through.
4. Start applying.
I'm aiming for one job application a day. I have a lot on my plate right now (school and a part-time job) so my time is limited, so this is all I can handle.
5. Panic when you feel underqualified and that you'll never get a job.
Just kidding. I did this, but I don't recommend it for you. Instead, find a friend or a colleague in a similar career path and ask their advice. I asked a friend in the marketing field (with a psychology major!) for her thoughts and advice... and it helped SO much.
6. Know that it is hard work and may take a long time, but persist: you'll get there.
I haven't gotten to this stage yet, but I know I will.
Do you have any advice for adapting to big changes? How do you stay calm and not panic when you're overwhelmed?