Feeling Unsure About Life After Graduation
Hi everyone, I’m Ivan. I’m currently pursuing my Master of Science in finance at Boston College after completing my undergraduate degree in finance at Florida State last August. I’ll be graduating and leaving Boston this September, and I’m feeling a bit lost about my next steps.
I’ve been exploring various job opportunities, but I’m unsure about what direction to take. I know that I’ll probably end up in an analyst role, whether in a company or an investment bank. However, breaking into investment banking feels daunting, and honestly, I’m not sure if it’s the right fit for me.
While I’m good at studying and passing exams, I don’t feel a true passion for finance. It feels like I’m just going through the motions. To put it simply, I’m feeling a bit anxious about this transition.
I apologize for the lengthy post, but I would really appreciate any advice or guidance you might have. Thank you!
One response
Hi Ivan,
It’s completely normal to feel unsure and nervous about post-grad life, especially with the pressure of entering the workforce looming ahead. First off, congratulations on your achievements so far—pursuing a master’s degree is no small feat!
Since you mentioned that you don’t have a strong passion for finance, it might be helpful to explore positions that align more closely with your interests and strengths. Here are a few suggestions:
Self-Assessment: Take some time to reflect on what aspects of your finance studies you enjoyed the most, even if they were minimal. Also, think about your skills beyond academics—are you a problem solver, a communicator, or perhaps a team player? These traits can guide your job search.
Networking: Reach out to alumni from your programs or professionals in roles you find intriguing. Informational interviews can provide insight into different career paths, work environments, and what it’s truly like in various positions. LinkedIn is a great resource for this!
Internships or Entry-Level Positions: While you might be wary of analyst roles, exploring internships or entry-level positions across different sectors could help clarify what you enjoy. Fields like consulting, risk management, or even tech positions that require analytical skills could be worth considering.
Explore Flexible Roles: If you’re open to it, look into roles that offer a mix of finance and other interests, such as business development, project management, or even roles in financial technology (FinTech). These areas often require analytical skills but also allow for creativity and innovation.
Consider Further Education or Certification: If you’re open to it, pursuing certifications (like CFA or CIMA) or short courses in other areas (like data analysis or digital marketing) could broaden your skills and help you feel more confident in your choices.
Take Your Time: It’s okay not to have it all figured out right away. Many people switch careers, and your first job doesn’t have to define your entire career path.
Lastly, trust that your skills as a student will serve you well, regardless of the role you ultimately choose. Focus on continual learning and stay open to wherever your journey may lead!
Good luck, and remember, you’re not alone in feeling this way!
Best,
[Your Name]