Managing the Transition From College Student to New Professional

Scarlet Andrzejczak struggled to find a job after graduating from the University of Cincinnati in 2021. After months of searching, the stress began to take a toll on her mental health, prompting her to reflect more deeply on her well-being.

"People need to take mental health more seriously," Andrzejczak says. "When I graduated college, there was no routine. I wasn't prepared at all. Transitioning from college to the workforce is one of the biggest changes I have experienced. Like Andrzejczak, emerging professionals often find the process of leaving a familiar environment, securing a job, and settling into a new home overwhelming.

A survey by the National Education Association found that more than 60 percent of college students meet the criteria for at least one mental health challenge — a staggering increase of nearly 50 percent since 2013. These challenges can affect students' ability to find and sustain employment after graduation.

Specifically, 44 percent of students reported symptoms of depression; 37 percent said they experienced anxiety; and 15 percent said they were considering suicide — the highest rate in the 15-year history of the survey. More than 90,000 students across 133 U.S. campuses participated in the survey.

"The final year of school, you're so focused on schoolwork [that] job searching was the last thing on my mind," says Senna Catenacci, a 2023 University of Michigan graduate.

Moving to another state, Catenacci had to leave behind the comfort of her college community and adjust to a new environment. And like many other students, Catenacci wound up working in a field different than what she initially planned. "I had always envisioned myself working in urban sustainability, but the jobs I applied for required years of experience I didn't [yet] have," Catenacci shares. While grateful for the opportunity, she often found herself questioning her career path.

Starting over in a new city only added to her stress. "It was hard to make friends or build a support network when everything felt so unfamiliar," she explains. "You think you're ready for independence after college, but the reality is so much harder than you expect."

Emerging Planners Face Work-Life Balance Challenges

Andy Cross, AICP, a city planner who has worked closely with new entrants into the workforce over the past two decades, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a work-life balance and seeking professional guidance, particularly for emerging planners. "Eighty percent of the work is a grind," he notes, underscoring the stress many new graduates face when entering their first job. He encourages students to focus on what they can control and to take proactive steps in building their personal brand.

The challenges have been further complicated by the pandemic, says Ward Lyles, AICP, an associate professor of urban planning and Indigenous studies. He points out that students who graduated during the COVID-19 shutdowns faced even greater difficulties in securing careers. "The pandemic has left a lasting impact on the job market, making it even more challenging for recent graduates to find positions in their desired fields," Ward explains.

Many schools are still navigating how to reintroduce human interaction effectively. Ward believes that creating stronger school environments and workplace communities is key to supporting young professionals and gaining more support from employers.

Despite these efforts, the stress of the job market continues to weigh heavily on students. Many grapple with mental health challenges while trying to find the right job. For most, several factors, ranging from the competitive job market to the pressure of meeting employer expectations, contribute to the overwhelming nature of this transition.

What Can We Do?

Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is a crucial first step. Many employees with mental health conditions still hesitate to disclose their struggles to employers, fearing negative consequences. Creating a more open dialogue about mental health and reducing the pressure on new graduates can help foster healthier environments for those new to the workforce.

Schools also play a role in providing support. Many colleges offer job counseling, student services, or career events. Students can talk to their professors, connect with peers, and build a support system.

Remember: You're not alone. By supporting one another, students and emerging professionals can navigate these challenges together to improve their overall well-being.

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