3 answers
Avery
Student
Independence, Kentucky
2
Questions
Asked
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Is it normal to be scared about growing up and life after college is over?
I'm mostly concerned that I am not pacing myself correctly for the future and that I will not be prepared enough for it. I'm mostly scared that I am not financially prepared enough for life after college.
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3 answers
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Avery. It is completely normal to feel scared about growing up and facing life after college. Feeling nervous doesn't mean you're unprepared, it just means you understand that life is changing and you want to do well.
A lot of these fears come from comparing yourself to others or thinking that everyone else knows exactly what they are doing. But most people are figuring things out as they go. There is no perfect schedule or pace you are supposed to follow. Some people get jobs right away, some take time to explore, and others change careers later. Your life does not need to match anyone else's. What matters is that you move forward step by step, not that you have everything planned.
It is also very common to worry about money after college. Many schools don't teach basic financial skills, so it makes sense that the future feels confusing. But being financially prepared is something you build over time. You can start with small actions: learn how to make a simple budget, understand your loans, keep track of your spending, and set small money goals. Even small steps can help you feel more in control.
Remember that very few people feel fully ready for adult life when they graduate. Most of the learning happens afterward, by trying things, making mistakes, and growing from them. Each thing you do, even small tasks, will help you feel more confident and less scared.
If you can, talk to mentors, professors, career advisors, or older friends about their transitions after college. Their experiences can remind you that success isn't about knowing everything before you begin, it's about being willing to keep learning.
A lot of these fears come from comparing yourself to others or thinking that everyone else knows exactly what they are doing. But most people are figuring things out as they go. There is no perfect schedule or pace you are supposed to follow. Some people get jobs right away, some take time to explore, and others change careers later. Your life does not need to match anyone else's. What matters is that you move forward step by step, not that you have everything planned.
It is also very common to worry about money after college. Many schools don't teach basic financial skills, so it makes sense that the future feels confusing. But being financially prepared is something you build over time. You can start with small actions: learn how to make a simple budget, understand your loans, keep track of your spending, and set small money goals. Even small steps can help you feel more in control.
Remember that very few people feel fully ready for adult life when they graduate. Most of the learning happens afterward, by trying things, making mistakes, and growing from them. Each thing you do, even small tasks, will help you feel more confident and less scared.
If you can, talk to mentors, professors, career advisors, or older friends about their transitions after college. Their experiences can remind you that success isn't about knowing everything before you begin, it's about being willing to keep learning.
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
430
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
I believe your fears are normal, and it's ok to recognize what you're feeling. Try writing down your goals and reviewing them periodically. They can be short-term for what you want to accomplish next month and long-term for the future. As you review what you've accomplished, you may begin to feel more confident about all the things you are doing and will do to be successful.
With every good wish and many blessings!
With every good wish and many blessings!
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1085
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Avery,
It is completely normal to feel scared about growing up and one day venturing out on your own. It's also completely normal to be curious and want to venture out on your own. Everybody is different and needs to take the road that suits them best. You'll learn as you walk along your path and take on more responsibilities when you are ready for them. Trust that you will find your way. Build your own support network, be it family or friends. Be thankful, if you have supportive parents, family and friends who will catch you when you stumble.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP.
It is completely normal to feel scared about growing up and one day venturing out on your own. It's also completely normal to be curious and want to venture out on your own. Everybody is different and needs to take the road that suits them best. You'll learn as you walk along your path and take on more responsibilities when you are ready for them. Trust that you will find your way. Build your own support network, be it family or friends. Be thankful, if you have supportive parents, family and friends who will catch you when you stumble.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP.