Life Beyond University: Exploring Varied Opportunities
During my Easter break, I embarked on a two-week journey on the Milford Walk in New Zealand, a trek that would prove to be more than just a scenic hike. The diverse individuals I met along the way, hailing from various corners of the globe, were a testament to the myriad paths one can take after graduation.
Among the many fascinating encounters, I had the pleasure of meeting Nicholas Wu '18, a Princeton alumnus who chose corporate finance as his post-graduation destination. Despite his choice, Nicholas emphasised the importance of networking for finding job opportunities and the value he gained from his corporate job, which he believes offers a good balance between work and personal life.
Another inspiring figure was Emma Kaeser '18, who opted for a fellowship after graduation. Emma found her fellowship experience to be invaluable and advised current students to explore various options before making a decision. She is now considering a career in the non-profit sector.
The North Island's tourism industry was bustling with young professionals, such as a woman from Pennsylvania who was working there while pursuing her art. Two Vanderbilt graduates were also making their mark in the hotel industry in Queenstown, New Zealand.
What was particularly intriguing was the number of people I met who had moved to New Zealand without a set plan. Many had taken a break from their traditional careers to travel, work, or pursue new passions. The people I encountered who did not pursue studies or corporate careers were farmers, artists, and freelancers.
A group of men who had finished serving in the Israeli Defense Force took a break in New Zealand before resuming life at home. Their stories were a reminder that life's journey is not always a straight path and that it's okay to take a detour to explore new possibilities.
My experience on the Milford Walk was a refreshing departure from the usual post-grad narratives of corporate careers, graduate/professional degrees, fellowships, and non-profit work. It was a testament to the fact that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to life after graduation. For me, the journey has inspired a newfound appreciation for the unconventional paths that life can take us on.
As I contemplate my own post-grad plans, I find myself considering working for a small business, starting my own company, joining a non-profit, or taking an interim job abroad. Whatever the future holds, I am now more open to the possibility of pursuing a graduate degree in the future and embracing the unexpected twists and turns that life may bring.
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