Nervous about graduating from college - what comes next?

I know I'm only a junior in high school, but I'm already anxious about graduating from college and finding work. How do you guys deal with that feeling? What are ways I can prepare for post-college life now?

Dealing with future uncertainties is completely normal, and it's great that you're already thinking about life after college. Here are some strategies to cope with these feelings and prepare for post-college life while still in high school:

1. Self-reflection: Start by identifying your interests, strengths, and values. Think about what excites or motivates you and areas in which you excel. This can help you to explore majors and potential careers.

2. Research different career paths: Familiarize yourself with an array of career options, and talk to people in those fields to gain insights. This can provide you with invaluable advice on education, experience, and job market prospects.

3. Develop essential skills: Regardless of your career path, there will always be in-demand skills like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. Working on these skills now, through extracurriculars or part-time jobs, can give you an advantage in the long run.

4. Networking: Start building connections with peers, teachers, counselors, and professionals in your field of interest. Attend events, join clubs, or find online communities that can help open doors and provide guidance.

5. Plan for internships: Many college students benefit from internships that provide hands-on experience and connections in their field. Researching potential internship opportunities can give you a sense of what to expect and what you need to do to secure a position when you're in college.

6. Focus on time management: Balancing your academic and personal life can be challenging in college. Developing time management and organizational skills now will help you prioritize and juggle multiple responsibilities through college and beyond.

7. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with news and trends in your desired field. This illustrates your commitment and provides useful information when considering job prospects or discussions with professionals.

8. Get comfortable with uncertainty: Sometimes you won't have all the answers, but that's okay! Embrace change and be open to exploration. Remember that life is a journey, and plans may change along the way.

Remember, you're only a junior in high school and have plenty of time to prepare and adapt. Instead of focusing on post-college life as an impending hurdle, approach it as an opportunity for growth and development. Establishing a solid foundation in high school will pave the way for a smoother transition into college and the workforce.