STUDENTS AS EMERGING ADULTS: FINAL YEAR PARENT & FAMILY PROGRAMS
The Final Year During a student’s final year in college they are often left questioning, “what’s next?” For students who are graduating, the frequently asked question, “what will you do after graduation?” can cause anxiety as students still considering their options or unsure of their plans repeatedly answer this question with more unknowns. Many students manage the job search process in their final year, while others explore and apply to graduate school or other programs like Teach for America or the Peace Corp. Sometimes having to make a decision about what to pursue next is difficult for students who may not have a clear path forward or may doubt previously determined plans and goals.
For many students, the loss of identity as a student is overwhelming, and in addition to considering what is next in their life after college, they may be managing grief over the conclusion of their college experience or the graduation of friends (if they are not graduating yet themselves). Managing the stress and anxiety, coupled with the transition issues students face as they prepare to move on from their experience at CSU, may lead to mental health concerns or the need to more intentionally explore feelings and emotions related to the transition. The final year is also a wonderful opportunity for
students to develop purpose and think critically about their choices moving forward. It is also a chance for students to make connections between their experiences and their values, connecting the dots of their time at CSU and making plans for the future. It is a time of reflection as students consider larger life questions and consider how their personal values, many of which may have shifted during their time in college, align with their next steps in life, both personally and professionally. The final year can also be a time of celebration as graduating students honor the achievement of degree completion.