More you might like

College/Career Planning Stuff

Hey y'all,

this topic has been on my mind for a while now. I know quite a few of you are in the post-high school or mid-college phase of life and trying to figure things out. Just wanted to share a few tips based on things I’ve learned [😓 the hard way]:

Accept the Free [Government] Money - Y'all, as crazy as this sounds - when I got out of high school, I turned down a 100% “full ride” scholarship to attend an art school that didn’t accept any type of government funding. Now if you’re fully set on something like that and you know what you’re doing, go for it. Otherwise, look at schools that accept your hard earned financial rewards. You’ll thank yourself after graduation, when you aren’t receiving a bill for $100,000 in the mail.

Think It Through - Don’t careers in industries like fashion and entertainment look so glamorous? After passing up my scholarship to attend art school, I decided to pursue a career in fashion. Let me tell you - very little fun and even less glamour. There was loads of nepotism, though. Tons of stress and endless competition. Ask yourself - what do you want to do and why? Be honest with yourself - if you don’t care for numbers and meeting quotas, you probably shouldn’t embark on a career that involves sales. Once you’ve narrowed that part down, think about this - can you make a living, financially, with this career? Which brings me to the next point…

Keep It Real - If you weren’t able to secure any financial rewards, don’t fret. Just come up with a plan. Applying for loans? Take out as much as you need [for school - not shopping] and come up with a payment plan to help you stay on track. Paying your way through school? Only take as many classes as you feel you can afford (including money for books and lab fees in your budget).

Prove It - Anytime you offer your services, get some proof that you actually participated. Get a recommend letter from the boss or a certificate. Even if it’s a picture of you, on the scene, helping out. Secure what you can to add to your portfolio/resume. This will put you leagues ahead of the competition.

Don’t Beat Yourself Down - So you gave it your all and still didn’t get to where you wanted to be. It’s ok. You’re going to be ok. Give yourself some time to recuperate. Be gentle with yourself. As you’re recovering, think about whether you still want to be in that line of work. What did you enjoy? What didn’t you like? It’s ok if you change your mind and want something else. It’s ok if you decide to give it another shot. Either way, you’re wiser now because you’ve learned some tough lessons and now you know what to do vs what not to do.

I didn’t want to make this too long, but I hope it helps somebody. Love y'all 💘

love self love self care fashion fashion industry college college prep career planning careers tips hints helpful hints take care of yourself help word to the wise