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Embrace uncertainty

Assuming I pass all of my classes, I will graduate from Oklahoma Christian University in 220 days and officially enter the real world. 

A world of uncertainty awaits me beyond the confines of this university. I am single and not tied down to any person or location. I have interned at two Oklahoma papers, but jobs in print journalism can be difficult to come by in an age of declining newspaper revenue and layoffs. 

A year from today, I could be working a fantastic entry-level reporter job at a respected news organization. Or I could be living at home and scraping by at a menial service industry job, still awaiting my first professional break. 

Occasionally I find myself envious of friends who have found their lifelong love or secured a lucrative job offer. Rightfully so, they are celebrated. Their Facebook photos receive hundreds of likes and comments. They are the center of attention at parties and social gatherings. 

Especially at a conservative, Christian university, it can feel as if you are behind the curve at age 21 or 22 if you are not married or engaged with a clear career track by the time you graduate. But with a clear life direction comes clear, inescapable responsibilities and ultimately less flexibility. 

Marriage is all about commitment. Your spouse’s problems become your problems. You must be there emotionally for your partner even when it is not easy or convenient for you. Disagreements and insecurities often arise and cause stress for both parties.  

Married people often spend their Saturdays going to cousin-in-law birthday parties or attending the wedding of a person your spouse knows well but you could not pick out of a police lineup.  Sometimes the cake will be good, other times it will taste like it was bought at Walmart. 

Many professional jobs after college require more than 40 hours a week. There is often pressure to climb the corporate ladder and work overtime, neglecting your hobbies and personal aspirations. You may have a demanding boss who drains all your energy and occupies your mind even when you are away from work. 

Upon bringing to light the full reality rather than just the obvious benefits, it becomes easier for us single, jobless, soon-to-be graduates not to bask in jealousyor at least not rush into a relationship or job opportunity we know is not right for us. 

We are in a unique position as single young adults. We are often blessed with good health, high energy and little debt beyond student loans. Most of us do not have children. 

Rather than trying to fit ourselves into a box of expectations, we need to take advantage of our flexibility. Move across the country to get that dream job. Save up some money and take a summer off after graduation to travel, hike or do mission work. It is easier to do at 22 than 32. 

Uncertainty is scary. What if I never find the person who is right for me? What if I never find a career that fulfills me and I enjoy? 

Personally, I find regret to be more scary. Why did I rush into this relationship just to have someone in my life? Why did I settle for a job which has me feeling numb and worthless?

Of course, I am not implying it is impossible or wrong to find your soulmate or dream job in college. I am simply stating people in a position similar to myselfsingle, jobless and anxious about the futureshould not make rash decisions to try and keep up with this artificial race to become the most successful, mature and accomplished person at the earliest age. 

Certainly, there are barriers to focusing solely on your happiness. Most of us are not from wealthy families who will supply us with funds to pay for our living expenses. We will have student loans, rent and other bills to pay. But if you are willing to sacrifice some comfort for experience, your options become much more extensive. 

Do not scroll through Instagram and bask in jealousy. Do not get inside your head and compare yourself to others. 

Be confident in your education, personality and ability to accomplish great things. Embrace uncertainty.  

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