5 answers
Alexia
Student
Hammond, Indiana
2
Questions
Asked
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What is the hardest adjustment to entering the workforce after college?
Transitioning from high school to college was tough and I want to know what the transition from college to being out in the workforce would look like.
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5 answers
Claire Mahaffey
Management Consultant
9
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Claire’s Answer
I graduated college just under two years ago and have been working full-time for over a year now. Transitioning from college to the workforce can be challenging, but it's definitely something you can handle! While college life is often flexible, many careers have more set schedules. This routine can actually give you more freedom than those late nights spent studying for exams. Use your free time wisely—join workout classes, meet up with friends, and enjoy your life. If you've moved to a new city after college, embrace the change and explore your surroundings. Enjoy the weekends without the pressure of studying, and keep a curious mindset by learning something new every day. Dive into your new job with enthusiasm, stay open to learning, and build connections with your coworkers. Remember, your first job is a big step, so take care of yourself and be brave enough to step out of your comfort zone.
Jess Leitner
Brand Marketing
9
Answers
Severn, Maryland
Updated
Jess’s Answer
Echoing what a lot of the others have said! Transitioning from college to the workforce definitely comes with its own set of challenges, but also a lot of growth.
For me, one of the hardest adjustments was getting used to the structure and pace of full-time work. In the working world, it’s more of a consistent rhythm, and learning how to manage your energy throughout a full workday can take time. I think it's really important to make space for yourself every day. Whether it's going for a walk, having a coffee break, or reading a book at the end of the day. Work can be stressful and taking care of yourself is important!
Another shift is realizing that learning doesn’t stop after college. You’re constantly growing on the job—figuring out new tools, adapting to team dynamics, and navigating feedback. It’s a different kind of learning, but super rewarding. The transition is also really exciting. You start to see the impact of your work, gain confidence, and build meaningful connections. Give yourself grace in the early days—it’s okay not to have it all figured out. You’ll adjust and find your rhythm. You’ve got this!
For me, one of the hardest adjustments was getting used to the structure and pace of full-time work. In the working world, it’s more of a consistent rhythm, and learning how to manage your energy throughout a full workday can take time. I think it's really important to make space for yourself every day. Whether it's going for a walk, having a coffee break, or reading a book at the end of the day. Work can be stressful and taking care of yourself is important!
Another shift is realizing that learning doesn’t stop after college. You’re constantly growing on the job—figuring out new tools, adapting to team dynamics, and navigating feedback. It’s a different kind of learning, but super rewarding. The transition is also really exciting. You start to see the impact of your work, gain confidence, and build meaningful connections. Give yourself grace in the early days—it’s okay not to have it all figured out. You’ll adjust and find your rhythm. You’ve got this!
Claire Wallerick
Technology Consultant
1
Answer
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Claire’s Answer
Hi Alexia,
Great question! I remember having the same thoughts before starting my first job.
One of the biggest adjustments is getting used to a more structured routine. In college, you might have a flexible schedule with time for studying and hanging out with friends. At work, you'll likely have a set schedule, so it's important to make the most of your free time to relax and do what you love!
Moving from years of school to a job is a big change, especially if you love learning new things. Think about whether a job that offers ongoing learning is important to you.
Even if the transition feels tough, you're going to do amazing in your first job!
Great question! I remember having the same thoughts before starting my first job.
One of the biggest adjustments is getting used to a more structured routine. In college, you might have a flexible schedule with time for studying and hanging out with friends. At work, you'll likely have a set schedule, so it's important to make the most of your free time to relax and do what you love!
Moving from years of school to a job is a big change, especially if you love learning new things. Think about whether a job that offers ongoing learning is important to you.
Even if the transition feels tough, you're going to do amazing in your first job!
Jennifer Dede, MBA
Biomedical Engineering
11
Answers
Rancho Cucamonga, California
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Alexia,
Great question! The transition can be a bit tough, moving from a flexible school schedule to a more fixed work routine. But don't worry, you've got this!
It's really helpful to think about how you want to use your time and energy outside of work. If sleep is important to you, try to get to bed at a good time each night, like around 10 p.m. If you want to have a social life, you might have to balance that with sleep and budget. And if staying active is your goal, set a regular time for the gym, either before or after work, and stick to it.
Once you establish a routine, it will get easier over time. You might have less free time than before, but if you manage it in a way that suits your goals, you'll do great!
Hope this helps!
Great question! The transition can be a bit tough, moving from a flexible school schedule to a more fixed work routine. But don't worry, you've got this!
It's really helpful to think about how you want to use your time and energy outside of work. If sleep is important to you, try to get to bed at a good time each night, like around 10 p.m. If you want to have a social life, you might have to balance that with sleep and budget. And if staying active is your goal, set a regular time for the gym, either before or after work, and stick to it.
Once you establish a routine, it will get easier over time. You might have less free time than before, but if you manage it in a way that suits your goals, you'll do great!
Hope this helps!
April Miller
Loss Monitoring Professional - Consumer banking
12
Answers
Uhrichsville, Ohio
Updated
April’s Answer
The biggest difference is how much time you have now. I ended up going back to school when I realized how much free time I had just working. If you are working but not in your chosen field, make looking for your next job your second job now. It is much easier to find a job when you already have one!
Thank you, April!
Alexia