Many UT students are taking a non-traditional route, graduating late and not committing to any definite post-graduation plans.
“I’m not even graduating on time. I’m going to take my time and work on a few more internships,” says UT junior Zach Ramos. “No book can give you what real life experience can.”
However, other students feel ready to put their college life behind them and take the giant leap off campus and into the workplace.
“I guess you could say I’m ready to move on,” said senior Jordan Berman. “I’m actually far more excited about graduation than worried.”
Berman and Ramos feel students don’t need to stay in the direction of their majors and stress the endless possibilities they have after graduating.
“It’s all about the people you know and the connections you establish after graduating. Life is not limited to your major,” said Berman.
Others have to deal with financial concerns after graduating.
” I would love to stay in Tampa and have my own apartment, but taking a job back home will allow me to save money for the future and cut out enormous living expenses,” said senior Sean Fahey.
Others are more concerned about being happy in their field.
“I’m not worried … I’m doing something I love and have more time to consider my options when I graduate, I’m not rushing to take the first job that comes my way,” said senior Nick Capobianco.
For others, graduation might mean the start of traveling the world.
“I have some money saved so I plan to do a lot of traveling over the next few months through different countries,” said Josh Clarkson who will attend law school next year.
Some might just take the time to enjoy summer the old fashioned way with family while enjoying their last job-free summer.
“I’ll have a job lined up by next fall,” said UT senior Matt Bernholt.
“However, I’m not going to start working when I get home, I’m going to enjoy summer and then start worrying about a job when that day comes, you just have to take things one day at a time.”