THINGS TO CONSIDER FOR LIFE AFTER GRADUATION CHECKLIST
Graduation day brings feelings of excitement: I’m finally on my own!
Graduation also can bring feelings of concern: Will I find a job and be able to support
myself? Where will I live? What other things should I be considering? The Things to
Consider For Life After Graduation checklist will get you started in the right direction.
Check these items off your list and you’re well on your way to a bright future.
Take care of medical needs while you are still under parents’ health plan
Look for temporary health insurance to cover you until you find a job with insurance
Open a bank account
Tip: Shop around since banks often charge fees for services such as on-line bill pay, debit card, etc.
Apply for a credit card while in-college offers are still available
Prepare a budget to calculate your cost of living
Tip: Ask parents to review your budget
Understand your student loans (what amount is due and when, who do you make payments to, are you required to speak to a representative of the loan company upon graduation)
Obtain a free credit report and obtain your credit score (there may be a cost for the credit score but it’s an important number o know)
Have any errors on your credit report corrected
Make a follow-up note to obtain your free credit report annually and check them carefully when they arrive
Tip: You can get a free credit report annually from each of the three credit bureaus -- get all three but spread out the requests throughout the year
Find a place to live
Determine how you will furnish your home
Determine your transportation needs
Consider taking an additional class or take short courses to further your knowledge and increase your marketability
Form your resume and cover letter
Tip: Ask for help from a school career center or alumni in your desired career
Make sure you have clothes suitable for interviews and for working in your desired field
Develop an employer prospect list
Take advantage of local job fairs
Set up file folders to keep important papers like your resume, apartment lease, bank statements, paid bills, etc.
Tip: Consider purchasing a file cabinet to organize your file folders
Develop a system to save receipts for job hunting/moving as these may be tax deductible Note: Consult a tax professional for advice on tax matters
