Cue the post-baccalaureate depression.

When I was standing in line at the Convention Center, before the processional, I listened to a couple of graduates chatting. "What are you going to do next?" said one English major to the other while trying to get the tangles out of his tassel.

"Oh, well, my parents are having some family over. There'll be lots of food and cake and alcohol."

"No," the first graduated explained himself, "I mean, like, the big picture." He drew a virtual rectangle with his index fingers.

"Oh", she laughed. "That? I have no idea."

***

The graduation cake is gone, except for a few depressing crumbs and some icing that clung to the cardboard. While I wait for final decisions about law school and contemplate Rodger's massive student loans, I browse employment classifieds and think to myself, "Hmm. Maybe a second baccalaureate degree?"

Comments

[Ken Armstrong]

I just tried singing your last paragraph to the tune of 'McArthur Park'. You know, "Someone left the cake out in the rain...".

It nearly worked.

What? It's a slow night in Ireland, 'kay?

[GrizzBabe]

I feel the same uncertainty about my future as that recent graduate, only I'm 41 years old.

[ourcrookedtree]

graduation is kind of like High School Prom...lots of anticipation and then reality ☺ just remember you deserve a big congrats no matter what you do; and you may change directions a number of times. At least now you have lots of roads from which to choose! You will do great things.

[Chris]

Realized goals come with their own burden some time.

[DCBirdblaster]

Cheer up, look on the bright side. Things could be worse. At least you didn't major in philosophy.

[Paul]

Congratulations on the first one and I pray wisdom upon your decision making for the future.

[Writer]

You could always come help me plant nut trees---

I even have extra shovels and gloves. Bring Rodger too!

Nice days in the country, exercise--all great for depression, with lots of peaceful places for writing...........

Writer

[Maria]

Career student. The life, definitely. :)

[galois]

You have done a great thing.. Nice way to get out of depression.. Make a clear decision on the second like the first..
=====
galois
Dual Diagnosis

[Chris]

I graduated two years ago... I am finally after that amount of time deciding to back to school to actually do something in my field (psychology, planning on school counseling now).

In between I have taught in Japan, worked customer service, and now work in Boston. My best advice is to simply enjoy being a bit free. And from the posts after this it seems like you may be doing that. ;)

Some of the steps I have taken have put me forward and some have been steps back, but every one was worth it.