Your path of life may change numerous times post-graduation

Happy spring!

Many of you who are reading this are getting ready to graduate, and many are faced with the “burning” question—“What are your plans after graduation?”

During my senior year, I had NO idea what I was going to do with my life (and I still don’t sometimes). I had to change my major from physical therapy to natural science. Sadly, at the time, there weren’t a lot of options for such a generalized major.

After graduation, I chose to join a volunteer program that was based in Colorado. It was scary to think about moving so far from family, but I needed a new outlook on life. During my time there, I figured out who I was; I had to come out of my shell and talk to people because I didn’t know anyone there. Luckily, my time at CSB prepared me for making new friends, and I still stay in touch with some of the people I met there, even after over 40 years.

When I returned to Minnesota, I had several different jobs—I still didn’t know what I wanted to do. I spent several years working in the insurance industry, which gave me good insights into investments and insurance. A few years later, I met my husband, and we had two children in two years. I was a stay-at-home mom and did in-home daycare. Eventually, I worked for Anoka-Hennepin School District as a data management specialist.

My brain liked the challenges of the job, and everything I learned as a student at St. Ben’s was helpful. Later, I decided to go back to school and get my master’s degree. So, at age 56, I earned an MA in gerontology, which is a growing field with all of us baby boomers.

If I had to offer any advice, it would be a couple of things. First, stay on top of your schoolwork; working from behind can be stressful.

Also, don’t ever be afraid to ask for help if you are struggling with a class. I learned that the hard way. Secondly, if you get the chance to travel with CSB+SJU, DO IT. You won’t regret it, and you will never forget the experience.

Don’t be afraid to admit that you don’t know what you want to do after graduation. Don’t be afraid to quit a job if you are not happy there. Find something that you love and that brings you joy. Your liberal arts education is valuable beyond measure. And, you have a huge network of fellow Bennies and Johnnies to offer help and advice along the way.

All my close friends are graduates of CSB. We spend as much time together as we are able. I know you have formed close bonds—keep them. Friendship is such a gift.

I hope I have given some insight into planning your life. As a grandma of four, let me tell you that I have had a lot of life experience, and please know that God is always in control— He has your life in His capable hands.