Dear Life Section,
I am a senior graduating this spring and I have been experiencing a lot of stress about the transition from college to working life. While this is everything I once wanted, the idea of a full-time job petrifies me.
What if this isn’t what I want? What if I’m not doing what I should be doing? Can you help me navigate this crisis?
Sincerely,
Quarter-Life Crisis Senior
Dear Quarter-Life Crisis Senior,
The quarter-life crisis is a period of confusion about purpose, typically experienced in early to mid-20s. Many college students face it before graduation. Questions about career, future and identity—along with external pressures—can be overwhelming. The expectation to have life figured out can take a toll and intensify these feelings.
The first step to overcoming this crisis is acknowledging it. It’s okay to feel uncertain and it’s important to know this is normal. College is a time for exploration, not a deadline for having all the answers. Doubt often stems from the looming transition from school to a full-time career.
Graduation can feel like a checkpoint for those who have it all figured out. It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing you need a rigid plan before you receive your degree, but it’s not a race. Reframe your expectations instead of focusing on a fixed path. Try new things. Make mistakes. It’s not the end of the world.
A quarter-life crisis can lead to profound self-discovery. Use this time to explore new ideas, hobbies and worldviews. Volunteer, intern or start something that resonates with you. Let go of fear and step out of your comfort zone.
Your mental and emotional well-being should be a priority. Stress, anxiety and self-doubt can be overwhelming. Find healthy ways to cope—practice mindfulness, take breaks from social media, spend time with supportive friends and set boundaries to recharge.
Talk to others with similar experiences. Faculty mentors, professors, advisors and peers can offer guidance and share their own struggles and victories. Seeking advice in both formal and informal settings can provide valuable perspective. You might find comfort in their stories and their insights could help you navigate your own path.
It’s easy to get caught up in fear of the future. The thought of moving out of college, starting a job, adjusting to a new city and meeting new colleagues can feel daunting. Instead of jumping to conclusions about an unknown future, take it one day at a time.
Ultimately, this period is an opportunity for growth, self-reflection and transformation. Change is constant and by embracing uncertainty and seeking support, you can emerge with a deeper understanding of yourself. The path to self-discovery is never linear.
Sincerely,
Life Section