New Beginnings
Graduation marks an ending…the closing of a chapter in one’s life.
Yet, the graduation ceremony is often called commencement –which means beginning. Sure…graduates will say goodbye to their favorite coffee shop on the Ave, the free entertainment that happens on campus, and the other students with whom they bonded during classes, club meetings, and various social gatherings.
But…they will also say hello to new adventures, new friends, and new (bigger) paychecks! Celebrating the advantages of change, rather than just grieving the losses, is a coping strategy that all of us should consider adopting, especially now.
The past few months have been difficult for the UW – we’ve laid people off, increased fees, eliminated many campus jobs for students, etc. It is right and proper to feel sad, frustrated, and even angry about these unfortunate changes.
But, hopefully, as a community, we can start shifting our focus to the new beginnings that accompany change. Graduates and continuing students alike are living in a new reality. Choose to adapt, to stay engaged, and to recognize the endings while celebrating the commencement of wonderful journeys yet to unfold.
And…if you need assistance mapping out a journey that excites you, start your voyage at the UW Career Center.
