About Mercy
Mercy Bamigbola is a Journalist and Education Volunteer. She studied Journalism at Ankara University through the Türkiye Scholarships and currently works in Ankara. She is interested in telling African stories from an African perspective, writing and reading.
One year and several ventures later, I can confidently say that graduating from university is one of the most fulfilling moments anyone can experience. It’s a mix of emotions: excitement, anticipation, doubt, and optimism. That moment when you finally put away your graduation gown and write your last exam is unforgettable. Yet, as the celebrations fade, thoughts of missing your friends and the experiences you’ve gathered begin to surface.
For some, post-graduation life begins smoothly, especially for those fortunate enough to secure a job or manage a successful business before completing their education. But for many others, there’s a wave of anxiety, one fueled by the uncertainty of what comes next.
A Huge Milestone
Graduating was a personal milestone for me. Not because I disliked studying, but because I was ready to embark on a new chapter outside of academic life. Studying in a completely new language (Turkish) was a major challenge and accomplishment. As an international student, learning and excelling in a foreign language demands more effort than the average student’s experience. That alone made graduation feel like a victory on many levels.
Career Lessons After Graduation
After graduating in 2024, I was fortunate to secure a job almost immediately. This transition was smoother because I had interned at the organization before graduation, and they already knew my strengths and work ethic. This taught me a valuable lesson: maintain and nurture the relationships you build during your studies. Those connections can make all the difference when you step into the job market (if you do).
Whether you’re working or running a business, life after university is nothing like school life. As a student, especially if you’re on a scholarship or supported by your parents, your responsibilities are relatively limited. But post-graduation, everything changes. Rent, food, bills, transportation, savings-they’re all on you now.
One thing that has helped me greatly is learning about personal finance and budgeting. Free online resources like YouTube, Instagram reels, and even ChatGPT help me understand how to manage my money wisely. Most importantly, surviving and thriving in the job market takes more than just earning a salary. It’s about the impact you make, your visibility, your character, and your values, and what remains when the paycheck is spent.
The Emotional Shift
Emotionally, the biggest shift after graduation is realizing that some of the comfort and care you once received often ends the moment you leave school. This isn’t meant to sound harsh, but it’s the reality. The world expects more from you, and the grace period for mistakes becomes shorter. You become your major support system and your own greatest cheerleader. With each passing day, you figure it out step by step.
You’ve Got This!
Life after graduation is a mix of liberation and responsibility. It’s a time of self-discovery, new challenges, and growth. For anyone graduating this year, you have your whole life of opportunities ahead of you. Keep learning, stay connected, and most importantly, be kind to yourself on this journey.
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