Commentary by Khayla Gray

As I stand at the threshold of graduation, I can’t help but feel a whirlwind of emotions—a strange mix of excitement, uncertainty, and nostalgia.

The years spent in college have shaped me in ways I didn’t expect. From late-night study sessions to unforgettable friendships, I’ve grown both as a person and as a student. But now, with graduation just around the corner, the reality of what comes next is starting to hit.

I’m excited, no doubt—excited about the possibility of what lies ahead, the opportunity to apply everything I’ve learned in the “real world,” and finally start carving out my own path. But, at the same time, there’s an undeniable sense of uncertainty.

The world around us is complicated, to say the least. As much as I’ve been taught to believe in hard work and ambition, the state of the world makes it feel like there are so many external forces beyond our control.

Climate change, political division and a fluctuating economy all loom large. It’s hard not to feel a little disheartened when you look around and see the challenges our generation is facing. The fight for social justice, the rapid advancement of technology that excites and terrifies and the ongoing global health crises all leave me wondering about the kind of future we’re walking into. These problems are massive, and they make the whole “adulting” process seem even more daunting.

Then there’s the job market itself. I’ve spent years preparing for this moment, earning my degree and hoping that the hours of study and internships will translate into a smooth transition from college to career.

Yet, despite my efforts, there’s a sense of unease.

The job market is anything but stable right now. Competition is fierce, and the roles I’m interested in seem to demand a level of experience that, frankly, I don’t have yet. I keep hearing about how people struggle to find work in their chosen fields, even those with years of experience.

This reality is intimidating, and it sometimes feels like my degree may not be enough to open the doors I want to walk through.

But despite the uncertainties, I’m determined to make it work. I know that nothing worth doing is ever easy, and maybe the challenge is part of the journey. It’s hard not to feel a sense of pressure when everyone around me asks, “What’s next?” But maybe, for once, it’s okay not to have everything figured out.

Maybe it’s about taking the next step, even when the path isn’t entirely clear.

What I’ve learned from my time in college is that life doesn’t follow a straight line, and neither should I. As daunting as the world may seem right now, I’ve been equipped with a toolkit that no one can take away from me.

I’m ready, even if I’m unsure of the map yet. I’ll find my way, just like everyone else before me has.