After College Transition

Thrive After College / By Erica Young Reitz

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From the Blog

Why College? (A Don’t-Miss Resource to Add to Your Bag)

Mar 1, 2023
In Learning to Love, Alex Sosler provides a rich vision of college by rooting education in love and affection. Sosler bridges the gap between the Christian faith and academic learning by encouraging students to love deeply and widely. College, first and foremost, is about becoming a certain type of person–one full of charity, wonder, and wisdom.... Read More →

Why College? (A Don’t-Miss Resource to Add to Your Bag)

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In Learning to Love, Alex Sosler provides a rich vision of college by rooting education in love and affection. Sosler bridges the gap between the Christian faith and academic learning by encouraging students to love deeply and widely. College, first and foremost, is about becoming a certain type of person–one full of charity, wonder, and wisdom…. Read More →

The Gap Decade Released this Week: FREE Sneak Peek!

Oct 14, 2021
You’re connected to After College Transition because you want the best resources for equipping students to thrive in their post-college journeys. I’m excited to share about a new IVP title that just released this week! If you haven’t seen The Gap Decade by Katie Schnack, you need to add it to your must-read/must-recommend list for […]

The Gap Decade Released this Week: FREE Sneak Peek!

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You’re connected to After College Transition because you want the best resources for equipping students to thrive in their post-college journeys. I’m excited to share about a new IVP title that just released this week! If you haven’t seen The Gap Decade by Katie Schnack, you need to add it to your must-read/must-recommend list for […]

What’s Your Go-To Gift for Graduating Seniors?

Jul 22, 2021
I received this image above from a college minister in North Carolina who went all-out with gifts for her seniors, saying “sometimes you just have to spoil your student leaders.” If you are already gifting After College to your seniors, thank you! If you’d like to start, order here or where books are sold. Here […]

What’s Your Go-To Gift for Graduating Seniors?

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I received this image above from a college minister in North Carolina who went all-out with gifts for her seniors, saying “sometimes you just have to spoil your student leaders.” If you are already gifting After College to your seniors, thank you! If you’d like to start, order here or where books are sold. Here […]

Just Get Started: Something You Can Use Right Away

Feb 17, 2021
As promised, this next video talks about the importance of just starting somewhere. If you missed the first video, check that out before you watch this one.  The video below includes ideas you can try right away. Just get started! Or, if you’re trucking along, make a commitment to take things to next level. Leave […]

Just Get Started: Something You Can Use Right Away

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As promised, this next video talks about the importance of just starting somewhere. If you missed the first video, check that out before you watch this one.  The video below includes ideas you can try right away. Just get started! Or, if you’re trucking along, make a commitment to take things to next level. Leave […]

Is Transformation Possible?

Feb 16, 2021
I’m rolling out some FREE, fun things this week, and this video below is the first! When it comes to equipping students for life after college, it’s easy to doubt our own efforts. We may wonder: Are we even making a difference? In this video, I talk about how we started small. Very small. We […]

Is Transformation Possible?

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I’m rolling out some FREE, fun things this week, and this video below is the first! When it comes to equipping students for life after college, it’s easy to doubt our own efforts. We may wonder: Are we even making a difference? In this video, I talk about how we started small. Very small. We […]

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Equipping Students for Life After College

Feb 10, 2021
Many years ago, when my team and I started equipping students to thrive after college, we felt like we were creating in the dark. There were not many resources out there – for students or for those who work with them. We did a lot of building from the ground up, spun our wheels many […]

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Equipping Students for Life After College

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Many years ago, when my team and I started equipping students to thrive after college, we felt like we were creating in the dark. There were not many resources out there – for students or for those who work with them. We did a lot of building from the ground up, spun our wheels many […]

Are You Turning This Perceived Weakness into a Strength for Students?

Feb 3, 2021
Let me guess: Often, you feel like you’re in an uphill battle. You’re trying to convince students to take advantage of resources you have to offer, but they don’t know what they don’t know, so they opt out. I get it. I’ve been just as frustrated, but I’ve also learned that there’s something we can […]

Are You Turning This Perceived Weakness into a Strength for Students?

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Let me guess: Often, you feel like you’re in an uphill battle. You’re trying to convince students to take advantage of resources you have to offer, but they don’t know what they don’t know, so they opt out. I get it. I’ve been just as frustrated, but I’ve also learned that there’s something we can […]

Summer is Bad Time to Decide to Quit

Jul 12, 2019
Do you work with college students and sometimes wonder if you can continue in your current role? Here’s one (from the archives) on why summer is bad time to decide to quit. Be encouraged!

Summer is Bad Time to Decide to Quit

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Do you work with college students and sometimes wonder if you can continue in your current role? Here’s one (from the archives) on why summer is bad time to decide to quit. Be encouraged!

Are You Prepared to Respond to Students’ Mental Health Issues?

Jun 28, 2019
I’m the daughter of a psychiatric social worker. Conversations about mental health issues – especially acute cases (like a client who ate cigarettes or an ER patient who consumed a bottle of Clorox) – were not uncommon at mealtimes growing up. For nearly my entire life my dad worked at a county clinic (which later […]

Are You Prepared to Respond to Students’ Mental Health Issues?

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I’m the daughter of a psychiatric social worker. Conversations about mental health issues – especially acute cases (like a client who ate cigarettes or an ER patient who consumed a bottle of Clorox) – were not uncommon at mealtimes growing up. For nearly my entire life my dad worked at a county clinic (which later […]

5 Questions to Ask Recent Alumni

Jun 21, 2019
As you reach out to recent graduates, here are some questions you can ask. I’m curious, what questions would you add to these? Check out the article (from the archives) and stop back over to the blog here to comment! I’d love to hear from you. Most importantly, I’d love to know what you’re learning […]

5 Questions to Ask Recent Alumni

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As you reach out to recent graduates, here are some questions you can ask. I’m curious, what questions would you add to these? Check out the article (from the archives) and stop back over to the blog here to comment! I’d love to hear from you. Most importantly, I’d love to know what you’re learning […]

Do These First: 3 Things Every Recent Should Prioritize After College

May 31, 2019
Life after college often feels overwhelming for recent graduates. It’s hard to know where to start. A few years ago, I reached out to a number of alums and asked them to share their advice on what to do first. Here’s an article (from the archives) on 3 things every recent gradate should prioritize. It’s […]

Do These First: 3 Things Every Recent Should Prioritize After College

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Life after college often feels overwhelming for recent graduates. It’s hard to know where to start. A few years ago, I reached out to a number of alums and asked them to share their advice on what to do first. Here’s an article (from the archives) on 3 things every recent gradate should prioritize. It’s […]

What’s the most outrageous thing you’ve ever done? A podcast interview on life, start-ups and “after college.”

May 22, 2019
I recently had the opportunity to interview with Colleen Batchelder, the founder of LOUD Summit, a movement that exists to engage, empower and equip Millennials and Gen Z to change the world and be a light of hope. In in the interview, I discuss themes of the book, but we also talked about business start-ups…and […]

What’s the most outrageous thing you’ve ever done? A podcast interview on life, start-ups and “after college.”

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I recently had the opportunity to interview with Colleen Batchelder, the founder of LOUD Summit, a movement that exists to engage, empower and equip Millennials and Gen Z to change the world and be a light of hope. In in the interview, I discuss themes of the book, but we also talked about business start-ups…and […]

It’s Okay to Cry: Helping Seniors Leave Well

May 8, 2019
Here’s an article (from the archives) that helps us encourage our students to leave well. It’s easy for students (and even for us) to stuff our emotions. But this isn’t healthy. It’s okay to call it [the ending of college] what it is. It’s okay for our students to cry. And for us to do the […]

It’s Okay to Cry: Helping Seniors Leave Well

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Here’s an article (from the archives) that helps us encourage our students to leave well. It’s easy for students (and even for us) to stuff our emotions. But this isn’t healthy. It’s okay to call it [the ending of college] what it is. It’s okay for our students to cry. And for us to do the […]

The Best Graduation Gift You Can Give Your Seniors

May 1, 2019
Last week, I had the joy of teaching a group of students who are about to graduate from an intensive, 9 month discipleship experience called OneLife. The program director invited me to help these students transition, and one of his hopes was that the students leave with confidence about their next steps (even in the unknown).    We covered a […]

The Best Graduation Gift You Can Give Your Seniors

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Last week, I had the joy of teaching a group of students who are about to graduate from an intensive, 9 month discipleship experience called OneLife. The program director invited me to help these students transition, and one of his hopes was that the students leave with confidence about their next steps (even in the unknown).    We covered a […]

What Your Seniors Need to Hear Before They Leave

Apr 26, 2019
Last week I had the honor of speaking via live video to two different groups of seniors — one in Alabama, one in Arkansas. They were wonderful groups of students, eager to launch into life after college, and they asked great questions at the end! As I prepared to be with both groups, there was so much I wanted […]

What Your Seniors Need to Hear Before They Leave

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Last week I had the honor of speaking via live video to two different groups of seniors — one in Alabama, one in Arkansas. They were wonderful groups of students, eager to launch into life after college, and they asked great questions at the end! As I prepared to be with both groups, there was so much I wanted […]

Live Training Course!

Apr 15, 2019
If you viewed the last video post, then you know I have something super exciting I want to share with you!  It’s a special, limited-time opportunity that I can’t wait to tell you about: a Live Training Course for practitioners (student affairs professionals, college ministers, and church leaders) who want to equip students to thrive after college. Are […]

Live Training Course!

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If you viewed the last video post, then you know I have something super exciting I want to share with you!  It’s a special, limited-time opportunity that I can’t wait to tell you about: a Live Training Course for practitioners (student affairs professionals, college ministers, and church leaders) who want to equip students to thrive after college. Are […]

What are the most important topics to cover with graduating seniors?

Apr 12, 2019
If you’re looking to help students prepare for life after college, you may be wondering, are we covering the most important topics? Check out this short video that explains another free PDF you don’t want to miss! Also, more exciting things coming…keep your eyes on your inbox! If you don’t already subscribe to updates, and […]

What are the most important topics to cover with graduating seniors?

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If you’re looking to help students prepare for life after college, you may be wondering, are we covering the most important topics? Check out this short video that explains another free PDF you don’t want to miss! Also, more exciting things coming…keep your eyes on your inbox! If you don’t already subscribe to updates, and […]

How-to Run an Awesome Alumni Panel

Apr 10, 2019
One of the best ways to close the gap between what students expect and the reality they often face is to let them hear from those who have gone before them. Host an alumni panel! If you’re looking to move your efforts from mediocre to awesome, here’s a step-by-step guide. Download this free PDF to […]

How-to Run an Awesome Alumni Panel

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One of the best ways to close the gap between what students expect and the reality they often face is to let them hear from those who have gone before them. Host an alumni panel! If you’re looking to move your efforts from mediocre to awesome, here’s a step-by-step guide. Download this free PDF to […]

Equipping Exercise & free PDF

Apr 8, 2019
In my last post, I promised some exciting, FREE stuff would be coming your way! These weeks are prime time for helping college seniors anticipate the transition ahead, and I want to help you maximize your efforts.  In this short video, I describe an easy-to-replicate equipping exercise that you can try with your students as soon […]

Equipping Exercise & free PDF

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In my last post, I promised some exciting, FREE stuff would be coming your way! These weeks are prime time for helping college seniors anticipate the transition ahead, and I want to help you maximize your efforts.  In this short video, I describe an easy-to-replicate equipping exercise that you can try with your students as soon […]

Practical Tip You Can Use Right Away in One-on-One Meetings with Students

Apr 5, 2019
This is a key time to pursue college seniors for one-on-one conversations — to help them reflect upon their college experience as well as anticipate what’s ahead. Check out this short video for one practical tip you can use right away in your one-on-one meetings with students. Don’t forget to leave a comment below. Can’t wait […]

Practical Tip You Can Use Right Away in One-on-One Meetings with Students

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This is a key time to pursue college seniors for one-on-one conversations — to help them reflect upon their college experience as well as anticipate what’s ahead. Check out this short video for one practical tip you can use right away in your one-on-one meetings with students. Don’t forget to leave a comment below. Can’t wait […]

5 Strategies for Honoring Graduating Seniors

Mar 29, 2019
Believe it or not, graduation is almost upon us! Let’s make these weeks count, especially with our graduating seniors. Here’s an article (from the archives) to get us thinking about how to best serve seniors in their last stretch. Don’t forgot to pop back to the blog here to share about one way you plan […]

5 Strategies for Honoring Graduating Seniors

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Believe it or not, graduation is almost upon us! Let’s make these weeks count, especially with our graduating seniors. Here’s an article (from the archives) to get us thinking about how to best serve seniors in their last stretch. Don’t forgot to pop back to the blog here to share about one way you plan […]

Why Every Young Adult Should Read Augustine’s Confessions

Mar 19, 2019
A guest post by Austin Gohn I’m so excited to have this guest post from author and young adults pastor, Austin Gohn. His book, A Restless Age, releases today! Austin does a fabulous job of bringing this ancient saint into our present cultural moment, and his book is one every person who works with twenty-somethings […]

Why Every Young Adult Should Read Augustine’s Confessions

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A guest post by Austin Gohn I’m so excited to have this guest post from author and young adults pastor, Austin Gohn. His book, A Restless Age, releases today! Austin does a fabulous job of bringing this ancient saint into our present cultural moment, and his book is one every person who works with twenty-somethings […]

What Students Need, Companies Want, and We Can Cultivate

Mar 13, 2019
In light of my last post on pirates and child-like play, I thought this article (from the archives) would be the perfect follow-up. Can you guess what top quality makes college seniors successful in their transition and employers eager to hire?  Find out here! After you read the article, don’t forget to stop back to leave […]

What Students Need, Companies Want, and We Can Cultivate

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In light of my last post on pirates and child-like play, I thought this article (from the archives) would be the perfect follow-up. Can you guess what top quality makes college seniors successful in their transition and employers eager to hire?  Find out here! After you read the article, don’t forget to stop back to leave […]

Pirates Don’t Use Computers

Feb 27, 2019
While playing an imaginary game with my four-year-old son, I slipped onto to my computer to check what felt like a very time-sensitive email at the time. He quickly caught me and chided me with these words, “Pirates don’t use computers!” He wanted us to play, have an adventure, and find the lost treasure! My […]

Pirates Don’t Use Computers

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While playing an imaginary game with my four-year-old son, I slipped onto to my computer to check what felt like a very time-sensitive email at the time. He quickly caught me and chided me with these words, “Pirates don’t use computers!” He wanted us to play, have an adventure, and find the lost treasure! My […]

How Do We Best Use Social Media to Reach GenZers?

Feb 12, 2019
I’m a sit-down-and-let’s-talk-over-tea-in-my-living-room kind of person. I don’t have social media on my phone, and I often shut off my cell on Saturdays and on vacation. I don’t have perfect relationship with technology (far from it), but as my students are trying to figure out healthy rhythms with their devices, I’m often trying to figure […]

How Do We Best Use Social Media to Reach GenZers?

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I’m a sit-down-and-let’s-talk-over-tea-in-my-living-room kind of person. I don’t have social media on my phone, and I often shut off my cell on Saturdays and on vacation. I don’t have perfect relationship with technology (far from it), but as my students are trying to figure out healthy rhythms with their devices, I’m often trying to figure […]

Live Training Course!

Jan 21, 2019
If you viewed the last video, then you know I have something super exciting I want to share with you!  It’s a special, limited-time opportunity that I can’t wait to tell you about: a live training course for practitioners (student affairs professionals, college ministers and church leaders) who want to equip students to thrive after college.  Are […]

Live Training Course!

by

If you viewed the last video, then you know I have something super exciting I want to share with you!  It’s a special, limited-time opportunity that I can’t wait to tell you about: a live training course for practitioners (student affairs professionals, college ministers and church leaders) who want to equip students to thrive after college.  Are […]

The Importance of Place and Space in Preparing Students for Life After College

Jan 19, 2019
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eo9ZVK_I9aE[/embedyt] In this video I share a little bit about how the Life After College program got started at Hope College. One of the key things we talked about as it was getting off the ground was the importance of space and place. At the end of the video I mention a special, limited-time […]

The Importance of Place and Space in Preparing Students for Life After College

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[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eo9ZVK_I9aE[/embedyt] In this video I share a little bit about how the Life After College program got started at Hope College. One of the key things we talked about as it was getting off the ground was the importance of space and place. At the end of the video I mention a special, limited-time […]

5 “Must-Have” Features of the Best Interventions to Equip Students for Life After College

Jan 17, 2019
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMB4QiSMtqw[/embedyt] I’m excited to share the second video in this series! If you’re wondering where to start or what to works towards, this next video covers 5 “must have” features we should include in any intervention to equip students for life after college. I also touch on the question of “Who is responsible for our […]

5 “Must-Have” Features of the Best Interventions to Equip Students for Life After College

by

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMB4QiSMtqw[/embedyt] I’m excited to share the second video in this series! If you’re wondering where to start or what to works towards, this next video covers 5 “must have” features we should include in any intervention to equip students for life after college. I also touch on the question of “Who is responsible for our […]

Why Equipping Students for Life After College Matters & How You Can Help

Jan 15, 2019
This is the first of series of videos for those who are serious about equipping students for life after college. In this video I get personal – see if you notice it before the reveal. 🙂 I also share why this matters – how intervening in the lives of students during the college years makes […]

Why Equipping Students for Life After College Matters & How You Can Help

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This is the first of series of videos for those who are serious about equipping students for life after college. In this video I get personal – see if you notice it before the reveal. 🙂 I also share why this matters – how intervening in the lives of students during the college years makes […]

Happy Epiphany! & Tips for Transitional Times

Jan 7, 2019
I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and that you continue to celebrate as we remember today the Magi who traveled miles to visit the new born King. As students also travel miles to return for classes (today or in the coming weeks), they too many be looking to encounter the Savior. As great […]

Happy Epiphany! & Tips for Transitional Times

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I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and that you continue to celebrate as we remember today the Magi who traveled miles to visit the new born King. As students also travel miles to return for classes (today or in the coming weeks), they too many be looking to encounter the Savior. As great […]

Special Video Message from Erica

Dec 19, 2018
Those who approach transitions (vs. avoid them) are more likely to thrive within them. Here’s a special video message you don’t want to miss! Your comments and feedback help me create customized content. Thank you for filling out the survey. If you haven’t, it’s not too late. I want to hear from you! Please leave […]

Special Video Message from Erica

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Those who approach transitions (vs. avoid them) are more likely to thrive within them. Here’s a special video message you don’t want to miss! Your comments and feedback help me create customized content. Thank you for filling out the survey. If you haven’t, it’s not too late. I want to hear from you! Please leave […]

Making the Most of Trips, Retreats, and Conferences

Oct 29, 2018
What’s the secret to making the most of trips, retreats and conferences? If you work with college students and want to maximize the potential of your fall retreats, winter events or spring break trips, check this out! http://collegiatecollective.com/making-the-most-of-conferences/#.W9cwaZNKg2w

Making the Most of Trips, Retreats, and Conferences

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What’s the secret to making the most of trips, retreats and conferences? If you work with college students and want to maximize the potential of your fall retreats, winter events or spring break trips, check this out! http://collegiatecollective.com/making-the-most-of-conferences/#.W9cwaZNKg2w

Life After College is Weird

Oct 22, 2018
When conducting my research and talking with dozens of post-grads about life after college, the most common word they used to describe the experience was “weird.” It’s not like anything they’ve experienced prior to this time. It’s not like it stays weird until we’re 30, but until we find our new normal, life after college […]

Life After College is Weird

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When conducting my research and talking with dozens of post-grads about life after college, the most common word they used to describe the experience was “weird.” It’s not like anything they’ve experienced prior to this time. It’s not like it stays weird until we’re 30, but until we find our new normal, life after college […]

What’s the Hardest Part of Transitions?

Sep 4, 2018
One of the most difficult parts of any transition is the “in-between” time — that fallow, middle space in which the former thing has ended but the new thing has not yet arrived. This photograph of a fallow Pennsylvania field was taken by my friend, Howie Shultz. He titled it, Waiting for Spring. During transitional […]

What’s the Hardest Part of Transitions?

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One of the most difficult parts of any transition is the “in-between” time — that fallow, middle space in which the former thing has ended but the new thing has not yet arrived. This photograph of a fallow Pennsylvania field was taken by my friend, Howie Shultz. He titled it, Waiting for Spring. During transitional […]

Just Try Something: Personal Finances and the “Real World”

Jun 8, 2018
Penn State alum, Paul Girgis, and his friend, William Ferguson, have spent considerable time exploring how millenials approach money. You can check out some of their research findings here. In this article below, they apply concepts of design thinking to personal finance; we have to test, try, and even fail to learn what works best! Just […]

Just Try Something: Personal Finances and the “Real World”

by

Penn State alum, Paul Girgis, and his friend, William Ferguson, have spent considerable time exploring how millenials approach money. You can check out some of their research findings here. In this article below, they apply concepts of design thinking to personal finance; we have to test, try, and even fail to learn what works best! Just […]

What Home Remodels Teach Us About Transitions

May 31, 2018
My husband, Craig, and I love watching home remodel shows. We grieved the Fixer-Upper farewell with the rest of the HGTV-watching world, and we’ll continue to tune into some of our other favorites. The son of a contractor, Craig comes by this interest honestly. While I have no talent for repairs, seeing an old home […]

What Home Remodels Teach Us About Transitions

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My husband, Craig, and I love watching home remodel shows. We grieved the Fixer-Upper farewell with the rest of the HGTV-watching world, and we’ll continue to tune into some of our other favorites. The son of a contractor, Craig comes by this interest honestly. While I have no talent for repairs, seeing an old home […]

When Passions Don’t Pay: Trusting God With Your Work

May 24, 2018
What do we do when our paid work and passions don’t align? While it’s ideal to find a job where we get to do what we do best everyday, only a small percentage of people enjoy that luxury. If we find ourselves in a less-than-best job, let’s not lose heart. Here’s some perspective, wisdom, and hope […]

When Passions Don’t Pay: Trusting God With Your Work

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What do we do when our paid work and passions don’t align? While it’s ideal to find a job where we get to do what we do best everyday, only a small percentage of people enjoy that luxury. If we find ourselves in a less-than-best job, let’s not lose heart. Here’s some perspective, wisdom, and hope […]

Not What He Expected

May 17, 2018
When life after college does not pan out as expected, it can be easy to question, “Have done something wrong? Did I make a mistake in moving here, taking this job, or marrying this person?” Just because something feels disorienting or distressing, it doesn’t mean we need to go somewhere else. In fact, we might be […]

Not What He Expected

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When life after college does not pan out as expected, it can be easy to question, “Have done something wrong? Did I make a mistake in moving here, taking this job, or marrying this person?” Just because something feels disorienting or distressing, it doesn’t mean we need to go somewhere else. In fact, we might be […]

Launching College Students Who Land in the Local Church

May 10, 2018
By September of his senior year, David had two great job offers. Two offers. In two totally different cities. As he compared the hiring packages, starting salaries and corporate cultures for each position, we challenged him to consider one more factor: location. As his campus ministers, we asked, Which offer will land you in a […]

Launching College Students Who Land in the Local Church

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By September of his senior year, David had two great job offers. Two offers. In two totally different cities. As he compared the hiring packages, starting salaries and corporate cultures for each position, we challenged him to consider one more factor: location. As his campus ministers, we asked, Which offer will land you in a […]

Change is the Only Constant: Wisdom from a Graduating Senior

May 4, 2018
In her Onward State column, photographer and graduating senior, Sarah Snyder, looks back on her college journey, which did not play out as she predicted. Instead of freaking out or throwing her hands in the air when things did not go as planned, Sarah embraced the unknown. She writes, “There are always so many blessings in […]

Change is the Only Constant: Wisdom from a Graduating Senior

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In her Onward State column, photographer and graduating senior, Sarah Snyder, looks back on her college journey, which did not play out as she predicted. Instead of freaking out or throwing her hands in the air when things did not go as planned, Sarah embraced the unknown. She writes, “There are always so many blessings in […]

Millenials & Money: What’s Your M.O. & Is it Working?

Apr 13, 2018
Financial faithfulness — how we steward the money that God allows to pass through our hands — is not easy, especially right after college. If we want to pursue a healthy approach, one of the best things we can do is take an honest look at our current habits. Penn State alum and innovator, Paul […]

Millenials & Money: What’s Your M.O. & Is it Working?

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Financial faithfulness — how we steward the money that God allows to pass through our hands — is not easy, especially right after college. If we want to pursue a healthy approach, one of the best things we can do is take an honest look at our current habits. Penn State alum and innovator, Paul […]

Just Tell Me What I Need to Know: Community After College

Mar 2, 2018
What’s one of the top issues post-graduates face? Finding friends and community. I had a blast this past weekend talking with students about this issue and others at CCO’s Jubilee Conference. See below for some of what we discussed. Just Tell Me What I Need to Know: Community After College It’s Friday night. After a […]

Just Tell Me What I Need to Know: Community After College

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What’s one of the top issues post-graduates face? Finding friends and community. I had a blast this past weekend talking with students about this issue and others at CCO’s Jubilee Conference. See below for some of what we discussed. Just Tell Me What I Need to Know: Community After College It’s Friday night. After a […]

Two Truths and a Lie About Singleness

Feb 23, 2018
When I was in my mid-twenties, my friend Kimi and I entered an essay contest for twentysomething writers that invited us to explore a question that was keeping us up a night. Kimi wrote a thoughtful piece about race issues and ethnic identity. I, too, had deep questions related to politics, justice, and so on, but […]

Two Truths and a Lie About Singleness

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When I was in my mid-twenties, my friend Kimi and I entered an essay contest for twentysomething writers that invited us to explore a question that was keeping us up a night. Kimi wrote a thoughtful piece about race issues and ethnic identity. I, too, had deep questions related to politics, justice, and so on, but […]

God is Not A Magic 8-Ball

Feb 1, 2018
Life is chock-full of choices. Every day we make thousands of little decisions—what to eat, what to wear, how to spend our time or money.  And this doesn’t even include the huge questions we may be contemplating: Where should I go and what should I do after college? Should I go to graduate school or […]

God is Not A Magic 8-Ball

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Life is chock-full of choices. Every day we make thousands of little decisions—what to eat, what to wear, how to spend our time or money.  And this doesn’t even include the huge questions we may be contemplating: Where should I go and what should I do after college? Should I go to graduate school or […]

5 Strategies for Preparing Students for The Workplace

Dec 19, 2017
What’s the best part of the transition into the workplace? The hardest? This article looks at the opportunities and obstacles of adjusting to that first job as well as 5 strategies for workplace success. http://collegiatecollective.com/5-strategies-preparing-students-workplace/  

5 Strategies for Preparing Students for The Workplace

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What’s the best part of the transition into the workplace? The hardest? This article looks at the opportunities and obstacles of adjusting to that first job as well as 5 strategies for workplace success. http://collegiatecollective.com/5-strategies-preparing-students-workplace/  

Stop Overspiritualizing Calling

Nov 30, 2017
Am I called? This question can plague us or send us into analysis paralysis. In this article, Bethany Jenkins helps us stop overthinking, challenges us to start well and work hard (no matter what job we do), and reminds us that we are all called to be children of God. If you’re agonizing over your next […]

Stop Overspiritualizing Calling

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Am I called? This question can plague us or send us into analysis paralysis. In this article, Bethany Jenkins helps us stop overthinking, challenges us to start well and work hard (no matter what job we do), and reminds us that we are all called to be children of God. If you’re agonizing over your next […]

5 Steps to Financial Freedom

Oct 24, 2017
If you read the recent post on Money Matters, here are some follow-up thoughts for next steps. Penn State Alumus, Adam Gante (‘16), shares some of his personal journey when it comes to managing money, including five steps he’s walked to find financial freedom. 5 STEPS TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM As a college student, I didn’t […]

5 Steps to Financial Freedom

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If you read the recent post on Money Matters, here are some follow-up thoughts for next steps. Penn State Alumus, Adam Gante (‘16), shares some of his personal journey when it comes to managing money, including five steps he’s walked to find financial freedom. 5 STEPS TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM As a college student, I didn’t […]

Making Friends in a New City is the Worst

Oct 17, 2017
Most recent graduates agree that finding friends after college is one the hardest things about the transition into the next phase. But there are ways to prepare. Find out more here…

Making Friends in a New City is the Worst

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Most recent graduates agree that finding friends after college is one the hardest things about the transition into the next phase. But there are ways to prepare. Find out more here…

Money Matters: Recent Grads Pay Off $100K Debt in 5 Years

Oct 3, 2017
This recent article in Messiah College’s Bridge magazine features the important topic of financial faithfulness. Enjoy some money wisdom from Messiah alums. Read more…

Money Matters: Recent Grads Pay Off $100K Debt in 5 Years

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This recent article in Messiah College’s Bridge magazine features the important topic of financial faithfulness. Enjoy some money wisdom from Messiah alums. Read more…

3 Ways Graduation and Other “Disruptions” Lead to Growth

Sep 15, 2017
Guest post by Sam Van Eman Disruption typically comes in two forms—as an out-of-the-blue surprise, and as a right-there-on-the-calendar event. When I was one month into seventh grade, my uncle drove through the night to load up our bare essentials and take our family to a safe place away from dad. That came as a […]

3 Ways Graduation and Other “Disruptions” Lead to Growth

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Guest post by Sam Van Eman Disruption typically comes in two forms—as an out-of-the-blue surprise, and as a right-there-on-the-calendar event. When I was one month into seventh grade, my uncle drove through the night to load up our bare essentials and take our family to a safe place away from dad. That came as a […]

7 Tips for Interviewing Well

Jul 27, 2017
Whether you’re preparing for that first job or a career change, here are some helpful tips for interviewing well. Photo Credit: InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Blog  

7 Tips for Interviewing Well

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Whether you’re preparing for that first job or a career change, here are some helpful tips for interviewing well. Photo Credit: InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Blog  

Do These First: 3 Things Every Grad Should Prioritize After College

Jun 27, 2017
The transition out of college can be overwhelming. Where should I start!? This post looks at 3 things every recent grad should prioritze after college. Photo credit: InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Blog

Do These First: 3 Things Every Grad Should Prioritize After College

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The transition out of college can be overwhelming. Where should I start!? This post looks at 3 things every recent grad should prioritze after college. Photo credit: InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Blog

3 Tips To Stay Afloat Through Post-College Adulting

Jun 13, 2017
Will you sink or swim after college? Here are 3 tips to stay afloat. This Relevant Magazine article is an adapted excerpt from After College: Navigating Transtions, Relationships, and Faith.... Read More →

3 Tips To Stay Afloat Through Post-College Adulting

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Will you sink or swim after college? Here are 3 tips to stay afloat. This Relevant Magazine article is an adapted excerpt from After College: Navigating Transtions, Relationships, and Faith…. Read More →

5 Strategies for Honoring Graduating Seniors

May 4, 2017
As we’re in the thick of graduation season, here are 5 strategies for honoring and celebrating seniors as they leave. http://collegiatecollective.com/5-strategies-honoring-graduating-seniors/?utm_content=buffera0073&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer#.WQtbVdLys2x      

5 Strategies for Honoring Graduating Seniors

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As we’re in the thick of graduation season, here are 5 strategies for honoring and celebrating seniors as they leave. http://collegiatecollective.com/5-strategies-honoring-graduating-seniors/?utm_content=buffera0073&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer#.WQtbVdLys2x      

13 Ways Your Life Will Change After College

Mar 1, 2017
I got a text message today from a former student who was wondering how long it will take for her stop missing the community and friends she found in college. She likes her new community, but it’s not the same as undergrad. In some ways, she’s asking, “Will I always feel the void that leaving […]

13 Ways Your Life Will Change After College

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I got a text message today from a former student who was wondering how long it will take for her stop missing the community and friends she found in college. She likes her new community, but it’s not the same as undergrad. In some ways, she’s asking, “Will I always feel the void that leaving […]

Why Work?

Feb 17, 2017
  If you won the lottery tomorrow, would you finish your college degree? If you had enough money that we didn’t have to work, would you? A recent Atlantic Magazine article entitled “Secret Fears of the Super-Rich” highlights an in-depth research study conducted by Boston College that explores the question, “Does great wealth bring fulfillment?” Looking […]

Why Work?

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  If you won the lottery tomorrow, would you finish your college degree? If you had enough money that we didn’t have to work, would you? A recent Atlantic Magazine article entitled “Secret Fears of the Super-Rich” highlights an in-depth research study conducted by Boston College that explores the question, “Does great wealth bring fulfillment?” Looking […]

Stop the Insanity, Get a New Focus!

Oct 28, 2016
When life’s demands pile up, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, stuck, or lose our focus. During a recent stressful stretch, I recall a specific afternoon when I just couldn’t get out of my head. I kept replaying a conversation and situation that didn’t go well. This reel sent me thinking about all the things I […]

Stop the Insanity, Get a New Focus!

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When life’s demands pile up, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, stuck, or lose our focus. During a recent stressful stretch, I recall a specific afternoon when I just couldn’t get out of my head. I kept replaying a conversation and situation that didn’t go well. This reel sent me thinking about all the things I […]

How Am I Supposed to Know What’s Next?

Oct 6, 2016
  If you’re in the midst of major life change or choice, you may be asking, “How do I figure out what’s next?” Here are some thoughts about “place” that may help with your discernment. Author, Meg Jay says, “adult life is built…out of person, place, and thing: who we are with, where we live, […]

How Am I Supposed to Know What’s Next?

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  If you’re in the midst of major life change or choice, you may be asking, “How do I figure out what’s next?” Here are some thoughts about “place” that may help with your discernment. Author, Meg Jay says, “adult life is built…out of person, place, and thing: who we are with, where we live, […]

Why Transitions Are the Best Time to Start New Habits

Aug 18, 2016
Habits transform our lives. Borrowing from the concepts in Charles Duhigg’s book The Power of Habit, financial planner, Dave Seibel, recently challenged a group of seniors that the transition out of college is the ideal time to start a new habit. When we are out of our normal rhythm (or ruts), we can more easily […]

Why Transitions Are the Best Time to Start New Habits

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Habits transform our lives. Borrowing from the concepts in Charles Duhigg’s book The Power of Habit, financial planner, Dave Seibel, recently challenged a group of seniors that the transition out of college is the ideal time to start a new habit. When we are out of our normal rhythm (or ruts), we can more easily […]

Two Truths and a Lie About Singleness After College

Aug 10, 2016
When I was in my mid-twenties, my friend Kimi and I entered an essay contest for twentysomething writers that invited us to explore a question that was keeping us up a night. Kimi wrote a thoughtful piece about race issues and ethnic identity. I too had deep questions related to politics, justice, and so on, but […]

Two Truths and a Lie About Singleness After College

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When I was in my mid-twenties, my friend Kimi and I entered an essay contest for twentysomething writers that invited us to explore a question that was keeping us up a night. Kimi wrote a thoughtful piece about race issues and ethnic identity. I too had deep questions related to politics, justice, and so on, but […]

Just Tell Me What I Need To Know!

Jul 29, 2016
There are so many different aspects to the transition, it would be nice if someone would just tell us what we need to know. Well, there’ help with exactly that! Check out the ongoing "Just Tell Me What I Need to Know blog series for recent graduates (on InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Blog). http://intervarsity.org/blog/just-tell- me-what- i-need- know-community- after-college

Just Tell Me What I Need To Know!

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There are so many different aspects to the transition, it would be nice if someone would just tell us what we need to know. Well, there’ help with exactly that! Check out the ongoing "Just Tell Me What I Need to Know blog series for recent graduates (on InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Blog). http://intervarsity.org/blog/just-tell- me-what- i-need- know-community- after-college