The spring semester often brings a mix of excitement, pressure, and panic for graduating seniors. As graduation approaches, it can feel like everyone else has a post-grad plan figured out, while you’re still sorting through possibilities. The truth is, having a fully mapped-out 10-year plan is unrealistic, and that’s okay. Feeling uncertain doesn’t mean you’re behind. Instead of letting anxiety take over, use this final semester to redirect that energy into preparation. You don’t need all the answers right now; you just need the next step.

Clarify Your “Next Step” (Even If You’re Unsure)

While you don’t need to know exactly where you’ll be years from now, it is helpful to have a general direction in mind. The next step might be starting a job search, applying to graduate school, volunteering, interning, or even taking a gap year to rest and reset. All of these paths are valid. Your goals and interests will continue to evolve just as they have since your freshman year. Think of graduation as an extension of your learning journey, not the end of it. Every opportunity, even unexpected ones, can teach you something valuable.

Get Career-Ready On Paper: Resume, LinkedIn, & References

Even if you don’t have a job lined up yet, keeping your resume and LinkedIn updated is essential. Include meaningful experiences such as internships, volunteer work, academic clubs, class projects, or leadership roles that showcase your skills. Take time this semester to reflect on your experiences at Chapman University and translate them into strong, clear bullet points. If you don’t yet have a portfolio, now is a great time to start building one. Erin Berthon, your Career Advisor in Wilkinson College, can help you polish your resume, LinkedIn profile, and overall professional presence. If you plan to request letters of recommendation, be proactive; ask professors early in the semester rather than waiting until deadlines pile up at the end of the year.

Use Campus Resources While You Still Have Access

With your Chapman email, you have access to a wide range of tools designed to support your career development, including Canva Pro, Handshake, and VMock. While some resources may remain available after graduation, others will expire—so it’s smart to take advantage of them now. These platforms can help you design portfolios, search for jobs and internships, and refine your application materials. You can also attend networking events, career panels, and professional development workshops during the spring semester to strengthen your profile and connections. Be sure to check which resources remain accessible through alumni services after graduation.

Build Professional Relationships That Outlast College

During your time at Chapman, you’ve likely connected with professors, classmates, alumni, and professionals who can continue to support you after graduation. Start thinking about how to turn these connections into long-term professional relationships. You don’t need to stay in touch with everyone; focus on a few people you admire or want to learn from. Attend office hours, reach out to alumni for informational interviews, and check in with classmates as you move into your next chapters. You may be surprised by how many opportunities come from simply staying connected.

Final Thought

Graduation doesn’t require having everything figured out; it requires being willing to take the next step. Use this spring to prepare, reflect, and build momentum. Progress doesn’t happen all at once, and that’s okay. Trust that you’re more prepared than you think.