How I'm Feeling After Graduating. 🎓 | Post-Grad Diaries

[@jossthomaswright]

Post-graduation depression is SUCH a thing. I wasn't expecting it because I had struggled so much with the final term of uni, but then the next day, BAM. My tips would be to get out of the house, plan in a lot of fun throughout the summer months but keep them spread out so you can rest in between, and actually need the rest. Write notes and stick them on the wall reminding yourself why you're resting, why you deserve it, and that this is a stage in your life that you'll one day only get to look back on, not live through - so that on the days where it's all far too quiet and slow, you know why you're doing it. Don't jump into job hunting too fast. It's only a distraction from the stillness you deserve right at this moment. Set reminders in your calendar to check in with friends because keeping in touch with them will feel obvious right now because you miss them so much, but life will do its thing and you'll appreciate the nudge down the line. Feel, feel, feel. You've done amazingly, congratulations on everything

[@lacthetomato]

Such beautiful advice 🥺 your words felt like a band-aid in my heart, thank you, hope Jade reads this

[@jossthomaswright]

@@lacthetomato Ah I’m so so glad

[@lillysummeroriginals1213]

May I get some advice I love school for the urge of working hard to get good grades. Now that I have graduated there’s nothing for me in the summer. No additional course I can take her anything. Learning on my own is completely different because there’s no one or nothing saying you need to study or do you need to get up and go work on this project. What do I do about it. I am not surrounded by people who like to learn for fun and I’m not really sure what I should do until September. All ideas would be appreciated and also I am legally blind

[@Zoe_EK]

That was beautifully put! Thank you❤

[@arriellis9816]

THIS! ^ I graduated at the start of the pandemic and that summer felt empty for me without the usual celebratory events (no graduation until 2 years later), holidays or even uni work - but I definitely needed the rest and mental break from the requirements of university. I am very happy now not to be in education, as everyday can be a choice to learn something new... I am happy growing as a person in my career and living each day as it comes

[@josephsilva3041]

Watching your entire journey from GCSE's to this has just been so inspiring, so so proud of you Jade!! 🥹🫶

[@lukegrove3282]

Me 2! Well said

[@carajoubert5981]

Hi Jade, I just wanted to say you don't have to leave identity of being a student behind, everyday we are continuously learning. You are just transforming into a different type of student. One that let's pure curiosity lead you towards new knowledge. You are a really hard working individual and it is clear you have lots of love in your heart. Your authenticity and vulnerability is what makes you truly shine. All the best, sending lots of love, Cara.

[@lukegrove3282]

Love this

[@emilygwynneth1278]

I love this sm

[@rachaelpowles8902]

My Post Grad Pro Tips 1) It’s going to take your body some time to recover. Let yourself sleep and eat food that makes you feel good, take your time. The exhaustion is normal and will pass when you’re rested. 2) Some of your friendships will fade post grad, and that’s okay! Those people were in your life at that time for a reason, and drifting apart doesn’t erase the wonderful memories you made together. The friendships you want to last will though, if you both put the work in to keep communicating! 3) When you feel ready, find some activities to fill that Nothing! It can be a creative project, or a part time job, a freelance gig, but ease back into setting yourself routines that fill you up without falling into Hustle. The emptiness that follows graduation is real and scary, but it will pass, I promise. All my love to you Jade!

[@whitefoxlove]

Thank you

[@charlie_linton_]

One year on from graduating (gone soo quick!) but I found embracing/doing the things you wanted to when you couldn’t do at uni really freeing. Running along routes you have never done before. Reading guilt free and not thinking that I need to read something that would benefit my studies. visiting friends- a lot of my friends are still living away so going on little holidays is also soo fun. Don’t feel pressured to apply for jobs straight away- people would ask what I’m doing next, and I’d just say “I don’t know” and a lot of the time the response was “that’s okay” and I felt so surprised and almost happy by that. Take you time and everything will work out!!

[@anonymousindividual0]

This was helpful to read. I’ve had to defer assessments so will be graduating in either Jan or May of next year (hasn’t been confirmed) instead of having done so this past July like my friends and seeing them all go off to do great things really gets me down because I feel like I’m far behind them and won’t be able to catch up. Thank you for this comment. :)

[@kathrynswords6433]

I just graduated from high school but I relate SO MUCH to this entire video. Sobbed for two hours straight the night of graduation and 3 weeks post-grad I have no idea what I'm doing with my life. thanks for making me feel a little less alone

[@_abi_with_an_i]

A year ago I was EXACTLY in this place. Took 3 months at home before starting full time work and it was so disorienting but SO healthy to rest after the grind of school. There is so much light in my life 12 months after, even though everything looks different. Couldn't see it at the time, but there is so much I had to look forward to still.

[@loubna2579]

So I cried during the whole video. I've just graduated from a bachelor degree and I'm taking a gap year before my master degree. The problem is, that I have no f****** idea of what I'm gonna do during the gap year, and of what I'll be doing with my life. I always feel the pressure of, paradoxically, being productive and at the same time resting, after years of hustling. But I feel like I can't rest until I've figured everything out. As a result I feel extreme guilt for "wasting" my summer holidays overthinking all days instead of resting. I never felt as lost as I am right now, I don't see any way out... I'm sorry I wrote such an egoist and pessimistic comment but I felt the need to express myself and somehow I feel safe to do it here. Thanks for reading me ❤ And thank you Jade for all your amazing videos. I hope that we will all find our place in this world one day.

[@devintel9997]

I honestly feel the exact same way right now :(

[@loubna2579]

@@devintel9997 I'm sorry to hear that 😭 We'll get through this and hopefully we will find our way in this world ❤️🙏

[@krox477]

You're gonna make money and work for rest of your life

[@moinmoin8612]

girl same, i wanna do a gap year and do some internships, but at the same time i feel so unproductive and kinda worthless because i'm not doing my masters right after graduation.:(

[@gulnida7801]

i am in the same position

[@Vlogversity]

I just graduated in may and let me tell you.... I HATED IT. Post grad depression hit legit on the day of my graduation and i felt like a total burden. Everyone was there to celebrate me and all i wanted to do was curl up in a ball in my bed. It's scary, nerve-racking, confusing, and a feeling of unpreparedness that takes over. Thinking about how I wouldn't have made it thru school without the moral and financial support of my parents made me feel like i wasn't deserving of a celebration or anything. I didn't (and still dont) have a job or internship lined up and i felt so unprepared for the real world its beyond belief. the thought of having to find a job/internship, interview process, hope that my resume stands out over the others, its all so overwhelming!

[@sleepy-cowboy]

I recently left a school, and the feelings in the weeks afterwards are so crazy. I'm interested to hear someone else talk about the experience :)

[@Zoe_EK]

Wow the part about feeling like a changes puzzle piece not fitting quite back into your childhood/family home is not talked about enough! It's overwhelming since it leaves you feeling detached and a little lost but it also gives us space to show our former selves how we have grown and re-experience the space on a new level!

[@123canadagirl]

Congratulations on your graduation 🎉 You’ve achieved a big milestone in your life. I’m much older and have four degrees because like you I love learning. So keep in mind you can decide down the road to embark on another degree such as a masters and so on. You just ended a huge chapter in your life and it’s completely natural to grieve the loss of your routines, cohort cohesiveness and most of all seeing your friends. You’re right some friends will be with you for your lifetime and others drop away and you meet new people. Change is the only constant in your life. It’s natural you’ve changed and so has your family. So you all will need to rebuild the puzzle structure over time. You may also decide to move to your own location eventually. I can see your wandering feet want to explore again. I have those same inclinations. Take time to go inward and journal and think about your life. What makes you happy? What do you love? What types of places and things speak to you. Do lots of self care. Make a few tiny steps and decisions as your summer goes on. Go have fun! Maybe explore your area or go on a mini break in the UK or Europe. Maybe plan some future get togethers with close uni friends. I find having something on my calendar that I’m looking forward to helps me out. Your casual magic ideas also is a good place to focus and gratitude journals. Having à gratitude journal has helped me immensely especially after my mum died a few years ago. Your therapist is also a good support person. I find when I’m struggling I spend time in nature or cuddle my cats. If you have a family pet that can help. As time passes and the raw sadness lessens then start thinking of what your future self might be doing even if it’s just tiny glimpses of her. Move in that direction with tiny changes. You seem well grounded and I have no doubts that you will find your next chapter soon! You may not feel it now but you are in an exciting time of your life-it’s all before you! I try to recapture that excitement even in my fifties because at the end of the day every day is a new change at life to build a better future for yourself and others. 😊

[@Toriesophie]

This is such a lovely comment!!

[@MaaykeW]

Okay wow, can I just say that this is exactly what I needed to hear. I graduated at the end of last year and felt, and actually still feel, really lost in what I want to do in life. But your story gives me reassurance that it will be okay and I will be okay and that I will figure it all out in my own time. So thank you!!

[@onabalcony]

I wish I had felt this way! Both times I have graduated I have just felt a huge sense of relief and freedom - that's how I knew I was on the wrong path!!! Taking a huge left turn and changing careers was the best decision ever and I'm glad I have managed to heal some of the hurt and pain that my university experiences caused me!

[@loveVampirized]

Which paths did you take?

[@Amy-uc1bo]

I can’t explain how much I needed this video, packing up after 4 years at a university, watching friends leave as I finish my masters and move home has been heartbreaking! Thank you for talking about this, it has helped me feel a lot less alone in these emotions!

[@alicefeel3918]

It breaks my heart to hear that you are not exited about the future🥹 I’ve went through that exact same path - great university/ graduation/ going back home/ leaving my whole life behind. Was feeling depressed as well, but once you get over it and realise that you are free to chose what to do with your future, that you can create in a bigger sense through your job it feels so good! Don’t let these sadness eat you up, trust me the next chapter is even more exiting 🌟

[@pepsicolla123]

She doesn't seem depressed, calm down 😊 she's just sad and grieving her previous chapter

[@charlotte6175]

Hey, I graduated a few years ago and some advice id give is to set yourself mini goals/ tasks for each day. Such as reading a book, then you can feel a sense of accomplishment. Also, take it one step at a time. You don’t need to have your life figured out. But if you know what step you want to take the rest will unfold when the time is right! Enjoy your summer of rest! 💛

[@izzydavie5505]

graduated from a UWC last November and I can confirm graduation depression is so serious and worse when all of your friends and support system are living scattered across the globe! knowing exactly how you’re feeling Jade and you’re not alone

[@PrideFiction]

I graduated nearly 6 years ago, and honestly, I'm still figuring out what to do with my life. I don't think anyone realises what a big transition is from education to "real life" and how much it affects your mental health. The post grad journey is different for everyone, but I've learnt not to feel guilty about resting and not having things figured out yet. Not giving into the pressure others put on you about your career is a big thing I'm still working on, too. We're not alone in this journey, and it's not talked about enough (post grad depression is also a thing that needs discussing more, too), so thankyou Jade for sharing your experience. I'm sure the future will be bright for you, whatever it may bring ✨️

[@simplyloveyouso]

Really love to see you talking about this topic. It's a couple of years back now, but I can still very much remember how it felt. And I love your explanation of the belonging to the group of 'students', belonging is one of our biggest desires and that shift if HARD. Any advice? Just breath, take your time to mourn, to look back, to dwell a bit in the memories. You'll be alright. One day you'll find yourself looking back to this period, realizing that you picked up life again without even really noticing. Just because that's what you do, that's what you're able to do. Transitions take time. So take yours

[@ferrentes]

After my masters I tried to move to another country for a PhD but left after one day at the new uni. I suddenly had no future plans, no place to live or need to be anywhere, no school or job. I went back to Edinburgh where I did my masters and started looking for any odd job to keep myself active. I worked in a vintage shop till lock down hit. I recommend going out in the world and working or volunteering anywhere, remake the puzzle of where you are now so the new Jade fits. The job I found had nothing to do with my future plans, I just made sure to be out in the community. Now in the third year of the second PhD I applied for and I’m grateful I got a gap year to figure myself out and live with less pressure on ‘making it’

[@katharinaalf]

Congrats on your graduation Jade! 🎉 I graduated about 1.5 years ago and almost jumped straight into full time work after without really taking time off and considering what I really wanted to do. I now wish I had taken time to feel a bit ‘sad’ and think about the next steps. So while it’s super painful to have this post grad depression it might also be a good thing too because when you take some time off and process your emotions, you will have so much more clarity going out of it. 🎉 hope this is a little bit helpful 😅 you will find your path I’m sure ❤

[@samanthagamgee8137]

This is exactly the video I needed - thank you for your honesty. I am about to graduate and couldn't find a grad job in my university city so will be moving 'home'. The thought of leaving the place that currently feels like my true home, the one that the current version of me has grown into, and returning to a place I am supposed to call 'home' but feel I have grown out of, is devastating. I know it won't be forever but, at this stage of life, a few years has a habit of feeling like forever. Many new, exciting things await us in our future, but it is so valid to feel pain and mourn having to close a chapter you would have liked to live in a little longer.

[@pari4911]

Hey Jade! I just graduated from college and I’m going to university in September. I’ve been here since your GCSE days so it’s crazy that I’m on the same path you’ve just completed. I’ve had a really tough year and I really relate with feeling quite empty after graduating so thank you for making this video. It’s great that you allow yourself to be so vulnerable (I admire your bravery) just so people like me can relate. I really relate with worrying about my friends and what I’m going to do with my life but I think both of us deserve to give ourselves a break. Congratulations on graduating, and things will get better! Love you 🥰❤️✨

[@martynamazurek5251]

I've just graduated high school, but my feelings are similar to yours. Thank you so much for this video, your honesty made me feel so much more comfortable and seen. you are my casual magic for today, Jade♥️🙏

[@absolutelyanisa]

Jade, even though I am only a middle school student right now, still the thought of losing the student identity in there future makes me feel so sad. Even though I dream about graduating one day and you inspired me to want to go to Minerva too. I almost started crying thinking about it as I was watching this video. congratulations on graduating, Jade. I hope that you have the best rest of your life. I hope you grow more and inspire us more.

[@baylamakarov8701]

I didn’t go to college, but when I graduated high school I had to actually figure out who I was and what I liked to do when I was no longer taking on the motives and identities of my peers, teachers, and their expectations. My world had been so small: study hard, get good grades, go to college, study hard, get good grades. And now there are soooo many options and opportunities

[@lenasoddemann726]

Ohh. I was literally crying when you were speaking about friends on the other side of the world. I know this feeling so well

[@lilybrown4180]

I've just finished GCSEs, and am going to a separate college to study A-levels because my school doesn't offer a sixth form. A lot of my closest friends seem to view this change as something very much indifferent. Instead, after my last exam I went home and cried for hours. I have my college enrolment day tomorrow and it all feels so overwhelming. Having to balance reflection, anxiety towards what's coming next and a sudden loss of purpose all seems a little too much. This video is like a warm hug; I might just find my own way after all. 💗

[@the_secret_unicorn3715]

wow, Jade, thank you so much for being vulnerable and sharing what I am sure many other people feel at different times of their lives, myself for example, I got released from the army 3 months ago and I felt and still sometimes feel just like you. The thing that helps me the most, as for all the times when life gets harder, is being kind to myself, times like this are meant for us to enjoy and explore ourselves more, talking about how we feel with our loved ones and realizing that we are not alone. We have to remember that for better and for worse, nothing in life is permanent and better times will come and will also pass at some point. Just do your best, stay true to you, and when it's really tough - just take it day by day, we really are all in this together, sending lots of love!

[@user-wp8ok1cd3v]

Hi Jade, I appreciate it may seem difficult to know your self worth in this tough world and there are a lot of paths we can look to for self improvement and to give us meaning. As arrogant and it sounds for me to say - I 100% believe there is an answer to all of your problems. I'm about to graduate with a masters degree and over the last 4 years I've struggled with a lot of the things you have mentioned in this video. Our porblem often times is we look at ourselves for our own self worth or sense of belonging and try to mould ourselves to be the best version of us and it's exhausting! Constantly thinking I should be doing this or that or wishing that people would think of us in a certain way or maybe thinking if only I could be happy... The truth is your life has value - objective value and God knew you from your mother's womb and he loves you so much and he just wants you to know him and have a real relationship with him. Our problem is that we turn from him all the time we look at other things to give us happiness and meaning - some people chase money status and power but others meditate or get involved in highly spiritual yoga (I'm not just referring to doing a few stretches now and then). We do these things to make our own fullfillment because we don't want God because we're afraid he's going to reject us - maybe we've rebelled against him so long and chaced after spiritual awakening from other sources but the truth is none of this will fullfill us. We try and try and try to get acceptance and to do things to better us but the truth is this will all lead to destruction. We don't deserve anything from God but he's offering a free gift of salvation for all our trespasses against him - past, present and future becuase it is his will that none shall perish. Which is why he sent his only begotten Son the Lord Jesus Christ to die for your sins and the sins of everyone reading this comment and rose again 3 days later for your justification. He suffered so we won't all you have to do is accept it and once you do you will become an adopted child of God who can never be plucked from his hand. He will lead you home and he rejoices that you want a relationship with him. Jade please don't look everywhere else for the meaning in your life , your life has meaning already you just don't realise yet quite how much! God bless you!

[@lauliemal1610]

Okay this is super random but at 9:16 what you described here is literally the main theme of this Italian author called Cesare Pavese, like the illusion of home, and creating something so big out of it, that once you actually return, it just feels so small. Random, I know, but I just thought I’d share cause I love it when contemporary feelings relate to universal concepts.

[@alicewaterhouse3844]

I think it's hard to feel excited when you don't have concrete plans to feel excited about. But I really respect you for taking the time to figure things out and not letting the anxiety push you into something you might not end up wanting just to have something planned. Just remember that whatever you do next, it's not in any way final, you can always change your mind. Graduation just means entering a new stage of exploration. All the best Jade ❤

[@SwatRocks_BeCalm]

Just started watching your videos 3 days ago because i decided i wanted to study in Germany and i made my way up to this video from start to finish and all i can say is thank you for sharing with us i already feel emotional seeing someone going through all this from start to finish i hope you always stay happy and achieve all your dreams❤

[@lauramulder5914]

I’m actually gonna save this to watch in a few weeks because I’m currently in the middle of my empty apartment surrounded with moving boxes and I don’t think I can handle this today 😭 Why did no one prepare us for how hard graduating was gonna be 🥹

[@pvandewyngaerde]

Being a student never stops. Only the meaning changes a little. I hope you can find your passion. And it will never feel like you are 'working'. Heb je nog plannen met je Nederlands ? Groetjes.

[@stellwyn]

Graduation advice... well. I graduated in 2020 which maybe was the most traumatising time to graduate because I felt all the feelings you described but also with major major pandemic fear and dread and will-everyone-even-survive energy. I'm not sure how applicable that situation will ever be but my main piece of advice is to be really careful to check in with yourself and with others. Like you mentioned this is a really vulnerable time of life, everything is up in the air, and it's so easy to start feeling lacklustre, and hopeless, and like you have no future, and... A few of my friends sadly didn't make it through due to their mental health, partly because it was so hard to keep in touch during those times, but still. Check in and ask 'how are you?' twice - to open up that conversation and help people feel heard. Also, on the flip side, there are so so many possibilities it can feel overwhelming because you feel like you have to choose just one for the rest of your life! And that's not true - you can bend the path of your life, change directions, try something new for the fun of it, at any time you want. You do indeed only live once but there is plenty of time to explore ❤

[@Gaesunt]

I had the same feelings when I did a gap year after my IB... thank you so much for being so open and honest. Sending you a big hug and just know that this phase is not permanent and you are so wonderful and not alone in this journey! Your vulnerability is healing for so many of us- thank you Jade

[@111abraxas13]

I'm about to graduate in July, 2023 and I've been following you for so long. Congrats Jade ❤ I'm so proud of you.

[@annaj5465]

I kinda relate to this. I graduated high school last week and it was soo weird. On friday we had the official event where we got our score cards and on saturday we had a huge celebration with our families and teachers which ended in a huge group hug where almost everyone started crying. It’s so weird to think about not going to school ever again and it’s not even like i’m not gonna see these people again but i’ll never have this exact experience again that I had for the past 13 years

[@sebastienruhlmann3917]

You speak immensely true words... Post-graduation is a lot of losses, socially and contextually. But I always wondered how it was perceived by others and I am happy to hear you speak out those feelings as well. I graduated from an international master's degree when you entered uni, so it's been a while! And the advice I'd give is give in to the memories of the childhood Jade and try to pick up a hobby that she liked because I'm sure she had to let go of many activities just to survive uni ahah. And don't stress yourself over future work. Keep it efficient and energised but not a priority, especially if you are the kind to value more than one thing in life. Spread your efforts for better physical and mental stability and you'll find yourself better prepared for the chapters ahead. I wish I could have had that advice for myself back then. xx PS : your uni journey has been so enriching to follow over the years

[@ilovetacobell69420]

I started watching you when we were both 18 and now we're both 23 and I feel like I've grown with you! this video is so relatable, and makes me feel less alone in my post-grad experience. so proud of you, congratulations on graduating :)

[@pienhoestra2303]

Such a heartfelt video and I can relate a lot ❤️ I did both my bachelor's and master's in the Netherlands but lived abroad three times in that period. I really empathised with that video you made before moving to Taiwan - the moving around (naturally) really got to you. Living out of suitcases for all these years and this lifestyle can definitely deregulate what your body registers as healthy stress. Basically, the more you expose yourself to these stressful situations the more it becomes the normal. While you're back in the UK, be thankful to your body that it has dealt with this stress in the best way possible, but also acknowledge that there is growth in dialing down what has been so normal in these past few years. Even on a subconscious level you have been exposed to so much! Currently writing my thesis for my master's, our ceremony won't be until November. I am also deliberately postponing future plans, allowing myself to feel whatever needs to be felt after concluding such a crazy journey. Will be watching the comment section for that post-grad advice 😂 recently opened up to a friend of mine who was a traveler in one of the countries I was a student and he said to "embrace the liminal", I hope that resonates with you the same way it did for me. I want to thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. After finishing my bachelor's right before a new academic year in which I was deliberating to pursue a master's degree or find a job, one of your videos on setting intentions to look back on made all the difference for me! In a way, I wouldn't have gotten to this point in my master's degree without you. I wish you a lot of love and strength in molding your puzzle piece this summer, your next step will present itself only when you're ready ❤️

[@adrianaspeis]

I feel this even during the summer breaks. That's why I'm planning to take a course I need for graduate school after I graduate because I don't need it for my undergrad. I think it will help me transition to not being a full-time student.

[@lindigqamana1557]

Hey Jade, a recent grad here as well! Congrats🎉. My advice is to enjoy the rest, don’t try to figure your whole life ahead, you should give time to the things you love doing outside of school. Connect with people you’ve missed that are close to you and just enjoy the simple things ❤️. Don’t feel pressured to know what’s going on or where you’re headed✨.

[@Youtuber-by6hx]

what if you don't have friends,,, you just counted down the years to get over them, you feel no comfort but as if you're forced being out of home,, what can be done

[@divineadelakun]

Hey Jade, I’ve been subscribed to you since 2017 and just wanted to say you’ve always been such a role model to me. Your entire journey has been so beautiful to watch and in a way, be a part of. Congratulations and I’m so proud of you xx love you, Jade! xx🫶🏾💕

[@meliphie]

I love how honest your Videos are! It makes me so motivated to work on my own Videos.

[@arminhaq]

Hey, jade. I just 'graduated' 8th grade and I will start o levels/ igsce from the coming session. Like u I luvvvv learning and I had that feeling of emptiness just after my exams. I know I'm at a very early stage but I can still relate to you

[@leni2384]

I‘m graduating from high school next week and seeing you (without ever really knowing you personally) just release me a lot. Showing your emotions that honestly gives me the feeling of being able to accept all of the emotions coming up when life chapters end. Thank you

[@asap.60]

Jade is soo right about us growing with her and her growing with us like i have been watching her video's since i was to give my first ever two GCSEs i was so confused about this like life took me through 3 years of GCSEs but at that very final moment when i was close to putting my efforts into results life took turn and now i am in an entire new country. But jade you have been and will always be a way of inspiration to everyone of us.

[@Ayushr0129]

Congratulations Jade! 🎉 It’s another great video!

[@lukeh1871]

thank you for providing a relatable perspective on graduating. i recently finished a levels and feel the same way as you, i often feel bad for having days where i dont do anything but this has reminded me that rest is okay. proud of you, well done :)

[@thinkingyas4245]

Dive head first into the existential no matter how hard that is; think in uncharted waters after uni. Ironically even though university should be a place to be pushed out of your comfort zone intellectually and mentally, because of the routines, the friends, the structures in place to make us feel comfortable, we end up ironically being in quite a safe mental space. After uni, the freedom to think existentially can take you into directions mentally that you could never have imagined before and it's so worth it. Kesha's song Eat the Acid is not about acid, it's about experiences and thoughts that change you so much that you can never change back afterwards, and that sort of describes what happens. If anyone is well equipped to dive into the biggest questions of the day it's you Jade

[@Natalanium]

I graduated pretty much exactly one year ago, and it was definitely tough. Uni was kind of tough anyway due to the pandemic and poor mental health, but figuring out what to do after being a student all your life is a big task. I jumped into a job straight away, which I think worked for me because I definitely needed stuff to do during the day to keep me busy(ish), however I also really regret not spending more time with my friends and partner for those first few months of summer. So I guess I'd say enjoy the first few months you have of relaxing, but try to line something up (doesn't have to be a career etc, can be part time or volunteering) so you have some sort of purpose during that first year while you get on your feet and find the right job opportunities. The job I have isn't something I'm passionate about, so I'm now looking to find opportunities that will help me grow and give me the creative space that my admin office job is lacking. Either way, I know you'll be able to figure it out eventually. Good luck!

[@Carolina-gl9jw]

i felt exactly the same after i graduated, the post graduation depression is so real. it just feels like you've been a student your whole life and then, suddenly, you're let off the leash without any instructions. like the deadline to real life and the real world has finally arrived and you're supposed to know what to do and what you want, and you just... don't. it can be so empty and frustrating. but, as someone who's been out of university for a little over two years, i could say that eventually it gets better. everything feels so vast and enormous at first, it's important to focus and celebrate the baby steps.

[@katiehenry3345]

I remember when I graduated I was on a high most of the time, it wasn't until September when I wasn't going back to uni that I was an absolute mess. With struggling to find work and not being near my friends I felt so confused and vulnerable which lasted for a while, so i always feel sympathetic to new graduates who are going through the same thing. While I'm sure it'll be tricky you will get through it, and in the future you'll be able to look back and remember how far you've come.

[@khadeejaalmanea7028]

Thanks for recording and sharing this video. I graduated this month and got my bachelor's in chemical engineering with an honor degree and most of the feelings, thoughts, etc... That you talked I’m traveling with and I just don’t know how to express those feelings. I felt that I shouldn’t feel that way because I finally achieve my greatest goal!

[@ambercone1287]

on contextual friends...i had a friend who i sat next to in one class during my second year of college. we completely lost touch after that semester but i always kinda wondered what he got up to. 5 years later, we reconnected on a dating app and now we're married. everyone is in your life for a reason or a season, and sometimes friends come and go! but the ones who are meant to be with you will stay with you (metaphorically), or they'll come back around if they're meant to. give yourself grace and patience during this transition

[@sarah.4694]

so so proud of you dearest jade, been following you since when u were studying in seoul, so grateful that i've found u genuinely. 💌

[@Rayowag]

I'll go to an online uni most likely, so I wonder how my feelings will differ from yours as I won't really build a lot of friendships with the way the uni works. As I said under yesterday's video: Can't imagine the grief of having to end such a wildly beautiful chapter of your life. I'm a very deep feeler, so that first clip is something I can relate to 🥺

[@littleblueplanet222]

My only advice is to be patient and take the time to become clear about your goals. It took me about a year postgrad to find a job in my field, in the city I wanted to live in- but that time was very important. I traveled the world, healed my burnout, rested, made art, spent a lot of time with loved ones and friends. Journaling everyday changed the course of my life (the artist’s way, morning pages, etc.), as did daily exercise and routine building. That time was needed to reflect on my experiences and set a path forward that truly had me excited for the future.

[@emikomina]

its been 4 years, Japan is calling you back. come visit soon again 😊

[@YasminOlivia-]

Hi Jade, I have also just graduated from my undergraduate degree and am feeling very lost too. Coming to the realisation that i wont see my friends as often as we are all from different hometowns, and all our daily routines are going to become very different from each others. My plan is to perceive this time as a normal, in between an academic year summer, to make the experience feel much less overwhelming. Hopefully, this will allow me to enjoy this time more, like its going to just be the usual 6 week break, and i will eventually come across an opportunity than i want to pursue. I just rewatched your video of '50 productive things to do this summer' and its made me feel a lot less overwhelmed. The key is just using your time wisely to enjoy life and learn skills you've never had chance to because you didn't have time. Im becoming the student of my own university, enrolling in the courses of my life. We're in this together! 🫶

[@Gaesunt]

wow you describe the feeling of moving back home after a few years away so well

[@sooyasdior]

i’m graduating uni next month🥲thinking abt the future is scary. thank you for making this video!

[@martiwachs]

hey jade!!! congrats on your degree, I actually just graduated too! I can't believe that after years of watching your videos we are on the same spot rn

[@d.6593]

Thats how I felt for yours, currently doing my 2nd bachelor.

[@NYKIRA]

This is truly so insightful, and this advice can even apply to those taking a leap of faith going on a new career path or creating a new life pattern for themselves. It can be so overwhelming to bridge the gap between what you're used to and the unknown ahead and I am so glad you've made a video about it! 💛

[@JazzminelLocher]

Before watching this I just wanted to comment that the word ”graduation” has so many emotions behind it for me personally. I graduated high school 2022 so very recently. I had an exchange student from Italy living with me and my family for that time frame. It was sad because I only got to know her for a short time span only about five months. Then she had to go back home to Italy. But she taught me a lot of things. I’m so grateful that I have been able to have three separate exchange students throughout my high school years. It opened my eyes to their cultures and experiences. My first was a girl from France, second Kyrgyzstan, and third Italy as I mentioned. But through it all even though high school had its ups and downs it was such a beautiful experience. This is a time in my life I will never get back. This is why I’m trying to enjoy every moment as my Italian exchange student always said. Because life moves by in a blink and we never get back the same moments and emotions.

[@aashrithasinde6558]

actually, I have another year in college and am kinda nervous about graduation and becoming a fulltime adult so much, because I have not been so satisfied with my degree, so I keep questioning myself about my future plans and stuff like that..... I am honestly terrified of facing many of my insecurities and I really don't feel comfortable yet to let anyone into this space where I am vulnerable and this video made me feel so validated, so, thanks a lot for just being brave enough to put out such awkward vulnerabilities which are very much real but nobody actually addresses them actively. And congrats on graduating successfully and hope to see you find what you love doing in life..🤗

[@Raquel-4444]

I relate to this so much.. Last year, I studied in an international boarding school in the US, and it was by far the best year of my life. Unfortunately, eventually it came to an end and we graduated. It was an amazing day, but I couldn't stop crying afterwards. We were all going back to our home countries, and I was DEVASTATED to have to say goodbye to everyone. We had lived together 24/7 for a whole year, and they really became my second family. I knew I probably wouldn't see them again for a long time, and I just couldn't see my life without them in it anymore. The post-graduation period of time was both awful and great, as I got to go back home and see my family and friends again, but I felt so empty and purposeless. I felt like I was just "floating through time" without any tangible goal, and I hated it. However though, it's been over a year now, and everything is great again. My life is pretty much back to what it used to be, and I love it. It's amazing how, as humans, we are so good at adapting to every situation. Everything always gets better eventually!

[@pepsicolla123]

Jade, I will share with you my similar experience. When I came back from my Erasmus traineeship in the Netherlands, my homecountry didn't actually feel like home anymore. Only after awhile I started getting used to it. I wish you never lose your positivity and hope 😊 do new adventures in this new life chapter

[@ellen3093]

This is exactly how i feel after my Erasmus exchange, thank you for writing it, I feel less alone in that now 🤗

[@juliasturrus876]

It took me months to find my way again after graduation. And I'm so grateful I took the time to process and take that space. It's okay to be lost

[@teresaribeiro8489]

Post Graduation advice is really just chill and TRAVEL and go on little adventures. Being immersed in your day to day activities until almost naturally it comes answers to you. Also, after start working, you don't get to really have holidays, unless you quit , the same careless way as when you were a student/recent grad. Tbh I had 6 months from graduating until my first job and the beginning was the best, to enjoy summer to gradually start looking for a job and learning how and becoming better at it. Also frustrating at times but you literally are an adult with no obligation than to just enjoy

[@Sophia-cd2ci]

Wow this was so well articulated. Especially the part about coming back to a place (home) having missed and loved and romanticised it but coming back the place being different because you yourself (and therefore your relationship to the place) is different, and also the part about grieving/missing contextual friends really struck me as something that I feel very deeply but haven't been able to verbalise myself. Wishing you lots of love and warmth for what seems to be a liminal time in your life's journey. Congratulations on this huge milestone, and all the best to you going forward : )

[@PurpleSorcerer]

0:28- the moment it hit me that I 'graduated' this part of my education and that it'll never be the same again.

[@Alhanoof-24]

I glad that someone feel the same😢✨.after I rested, I am thinking of volunteering to be open to the new experience, and working on one of my dream, learn English. I would not westing my life by waiting for anything 🕊✨

[@tharsishanmuganathan4022]

Congrats on finishing a chapter in your life!! Honestly from the bottom of my heart wish you all the best in the future and be well rested. Followed your channel since sixth form and now I'm studying abroad and watching your channel mid exam break 😂.

[@luanminitti1177]

It really hits hard when I look back and realize the week before spring break was the last time I would ever see some people again. #classof2020 🎥 😷

[@mahamquraishi7708]

Dear Jade you have always inspired me to keep fighting, to see highs in lows, and just do it. Although I'm still striving to achieve what I want, and I hope I will InshaAllah. I really admire you as a person and wish that I can meet you someday soon InshaAllah. God Bless Girl.

[@alicevivan4380]

Good luck with everything! I would love for you to organise a meet-up in London. It would be so fun!

[@amycarter3303]

Go Spend some reflective time in Nature Jade. After graduating I went camping by myself for 10 days was good to get out of the family home. It was super fun to just be present and explore whilst still having the challenge of where to go hike or what to cook yourself for dinner :) Also on reflection I think it is good to do something even if it is volunteering at a new charity once a week to keep you grounded. You'll be launched onto your next exciting path before you know it

[@ninamartens650]

Congrats Jade and I'm soo proud of you!!! I also kinda relate too this because I just graduated high school. I'm also kinda nervous to go to uni next year 💕

[@ZulfaMo]

I love you sm u dont know how much you inspire me to finish this double degree journey..from my O level years 💖

[@UnJadedJade]

this is so so incredible, keep going!! 👏💐 v v v proud of your journey and honoured I could play a lil part in it

[@lisagreghi1835]

I feel you so much, my contract is about to end and I am going back for summer and will go back to study masters and that is scary. Because then what. The only thing I suggest is to not take it too seriously, we are young and the world is ours to explore. Give yourself space

[@Celtravels]

I graduated 2 years ago and seeing everything youre going through atm feels so close to home, your videos these past few days made me feel so nostalgic and I miss this part of my life a lot. My advise for you is take it slow. I got a full time job right after graduating with no break in between, moved far away from my family and knowing that I will work in this job/ field for the next 40 years makes me regret not taking things slower. Im not the most optimistic person so I dont feel like many exciting things apart from going on a nice holiday are going to come my way in the future, so taking the time you have right after graduation should really be a time that you get to enjoy fully. Excited to keep watching your journey through life and growing alongside you. It was such a crazy and fun ride going to uni at the same time as you. I wish you all the best and just know that you will rock this next chapter ❤😊

[@celinefuchs4095]

While I felt some of the things you’ve described after graduation, particularly in regards to friends, I had a summer internship lined up quite literally the week after graduation, with a teach abroad experience to begin in the fall, which distracted me from feeling the full brunt of that great and terrifying void left by leaving school. However, I really hit a period similar to yours in 2020; I had just spent two years teaching abroad, and was excited in looking for my next path, when Covid hit and I came home. I was suddenly separated from all the friends that had been constants in my life abroad, with no idea when or even if I would ever see them again. The last time I had lived at home for that long was in high school, and to be honest, it was difficult. I am so grateful to my parents and for the simple fact of being able to be home, and I did find a rewarding job for the time I spent at home, but it can be difficult living in your childhood home again after having lived on your own in other countries. My best advice would be to be patient and kind with yourself. It’s not easy, and it takes time. I also felt the puzzle analogy, where the home of my childhood looked and felt the same, but I did not. However, over time, the pieces started shifting, both the surrounding puzzle pieces and my own, and I found new ways to fit. It was a long process, but it was in and of itself rewarding. Some things that helped me were reconnecting with old friends and community, finding new ones, and, honestly…just bringing to life some of those gilded fantasies of home I had. Like sitting in the backyard with a hot coffee and a book on a Saturday morning, or sharing a fun movie or even KZbin video with my parents, or going to the library and checking out every book that interested me even if I knew I’d barely read half of them…yeah. You’ve got this, Jade ❤️

[@cathelijne.h1664]

i graduate nursing school next year, as a 20 year old. And let’s just say im SCARED, so thank you for making me feel seen

[@LunaSmarts]

I just graduated highschoollll and yeah it’s crazy it’s all over. I’m excited for the next four years of college- especially since I’ve watched you since 9th grade :) so in a way I know what to expect? Almost like an older sibling 😌 I wish you the bestest luck in the next chapter of your life ❤

[@michelledowling276]

Watching this video and your last vlog actually brought me to tears! 😪Seeing this amazing progression of your life over the years has been such a pleasure to witness. You are such an inspiring and bright light to watch, and I'm very grateful that I found your channel. And thank you for always being so genuine and sharing your truest thoughts and feelings. I hope your summer is restful and gives you all you need for a new chapter of Jade ❤

[@miriam2526]

I graduated and basically went straight into lockdown. That was really tough, because I was kind of looking forward to finally putting my degree to a good use, start working, etc. But the world paused for quite some time. Looking back, I really appreciate the "free time" covid was forcing onto me though. In the end, it made me change career (not that I had actually started a career, but I got to work in a completely unrelated field to my degree) and I couldn't be happier! So I guess, the only advice I can give is, be open for whatever comes your way! Easy to say in hindsight, I know, but something will come up eventually :)

[@hannahshriver306]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I just finished my second year of university and can already see myself feeling so many of the things you are talking about in this video. I really admire that you shared this vulnerable moment with the world so that other people don’t feel so alone. Lots of love!

[@nikkiibone927]

Hey Jade! Firstly, congratulations 🥳 it’s been amazing to see you grow throughout your journey! I’m so glad you talked about all the post-grad feelings because it’s definitely not spoken about enough. Personally, a lot of my friends went straight into another program after college and I felt very alone not having someone to related to. I graduated in 2020 and as someone who has also strongly identified as a student their entire life, this is also something I’m still navigating. What has helped me the most would be picking up hobbies (rock climbing, photography, hiking), and planning trips with friends or visiting people. This time has helped me find who I am outside of being a student, and though I want to go back to school in the future, I think having this time to relearn who I am will help me incorporate a lot more balance in my life when I do start another program. Sending love ✨🕊️🤍

[@dominikaszczerkowska9689]

The most important video of yours. I graduated on Thursday and I get what you're feeling SO MUCH.

[@declutteredbookworm]

Congratulations Jade!! Well done for graduating and coming so far in your academic jouney. You are not alone in these feelings of post-graduation blues 🫶🏽 Wishing you the best of luck for whatever comes next, even if that just means resting and looking after yourself ☺️🤍

[@charityvaatikilonzo6061]

I graduated last friday and I was so sad throughout the entire week and I could not even begin to hype myself up. I was an introvert in college and I did not make any friends at all, I knew people but I had no friends and even though I do not regret it I felt like I should have because of the safety of numbers I guess. I am planning to actually begin living life outside the set system and I genuinely hope it sticks and I even started a travel fundraiser to volunteer overseas.

[@jodieturnerx]

I love that you talked about this because it is a truly difficult feeling that doesn't get discussed enough. There's so much talk about what it feels like to leave home but never talk about when you have to return as an entirely different person. When I graduated last year, it was also a very low point in my life but, looking back, it was a very temporary feeling. A year later, I'm feeling so excited for my future and prepared from everything I learnt at University. A chapter has to end for a new one to begin 💛 In regards to advice, I'd say be easy on yourself this summer. Create fun plans to look forward to with people you haven't seen much of or pick up some hobbies that you maybe didn't have time for whilst studying! I hope you have a restful summer Jade and I will continue to follow your journey and future achievements!! xx

[@Joodle75]

Graduating at the end of this year and mentally preparing with your vids... congrads to you!!! And thank you endlessly for sharing your journey, I adore you🥰

[@vespermartinis]

As someone who has just finished a big set of exams and now has a lot of time on their hands, I thought I’d tell you my current projects to hopefully inspire you with ways to fill all your free time! 1) learning languages. I’m trying to learn five languages that aren’t my mother tongue at the same time. Yes I know it’s a lot, but god I just love it. I find it so exciting. It feels like I’m investing in the future opportunity to communicate with a wider range of people more meaningfully! 2) watching all the films from my favourite actress and reviewing them! 3) practicing my dancing 4) investing in my friends! 5) continuing to work on my editing account and grow my community!

[@miharu9794]

I'll graduate next year around march but i'm having these feelings and this sadness already. I've been giving myself a lot of time to feel it and i have to say that being alone, at least for me, has really worked. Difficult but important for the process

[@lauramartens30]

Thank you so much for documenting this process Jade. I've been watching your channel since I was 12 and you've really changed my life. Wishing you the absolute best with your future!!! The job search process can be stressful, but you are so smart and qualified, there is nothing you can't do!!