It’s hard to imagine that in about 100 days, an estimated 2.1 million students in the Class of 2026 will graduate and step into the next chapter of their lives. With the current job market defined by new economic realities and uncertainties, including increased competition and evolving workforce skills and needs, guidance and support for college graduates is more important than ever. This moment marks the transition from familiar to unpredictable.
As a college administrator for over 25 years, I have worked with many students at this critical juncture in their collegiate journey. It has been my experience that students who chart their next steps strategically enter the professional world with more confidence and ease and are ready to embrace new opportunities that come their way.
If you or someone you know is getting ready to graduate from college, here are some checklist items to start your plan between now and May.
Reflect on your personal and professional goals: As you get ready to graduate, it’s important that you spend a little time each week thinking intentionally about your purpose, values and beliefs. Write down your hopes, dreams, special abilities and skills, and ways you see yourself adding value as a member of an organization or community. This might include a set of goals for your work and workplace, and even non-negotiables in your next step after college.
Prepare your professional materials: It’s vital to have a strong resume that reflects your education, leadership roles, and relevant work experience and demonstrates transferable skills in the workplace. Detail your college experiences, including student organizations where you held a leadership role, internships, entrepreneurship, community service, and academic programs like study abroad, capstone projects, and research that reflect your knowledge and abilities. Visit the career development office at your college/university, where staff can review and proofread your resume and provide ideas, feedback, and support. Begin to contact a few former supervisors, professors, or mentors who can serve as a reference and speak to your work ethic and talents.
Develop a professional presence, both online and in person: Begin shaping your professional identity by building an active LinkedIn profile highlighting your education, experience, and interests. Aim to share a post once a week between now and graduation, such as a story, event recap, or idea to demonstrate your engagement, perspective, and emerging thought leadership. In addition, invest in a professional headshot (often available through career development offices) and begin assembling a versatile professional wardrobe suitable for interviews and a variety of workplace settings. Incidentally, LinkedIn just made LinkedIn Premium free for students for one year.
Have an open mind around the job search: As you engage your job search, be open to conventional and unconventional methods. Online search engines like Indeed, CareerBuilder, LinkedIn and SimplyHired can be a good start. Many colleges host online platforms, including Handshake, that allow organizations to post jobs targeting new college graduates. You might find that many jobs are not posted online, and your best opportunity will be through networking, joining professional organizations (many have a young professional or student rate), and reaching out to alumni professionals via LinkedIn from your college/university. Say “yes” to any invitations you receive in the next few months to network with new people.
SRC1029 Micki Meyer. Rollins College, Photos: Scott Cook
User Upload Caption: Micki Meyer is the assistant vice president of student affairs at Rollins College and dean of Rollins Gateway.
– Original Credit: Courtesy photo
Upskill around AI: AI skills are highly valuable in the job market and exceedingly critical for new graduates. As AI rapidly transforms the world of work, upskilling equips graduates with the knowledge and tools to thrive in this evolving economy, adapt to new roles, stay relevant and seize emerging opportunities. Employers increasingly seek candidates who understand AI concepts, can work alongside AI systems, and develop AI solutions.
As my mother taught me, “If you don’t knock on the door, no one is going to answer.” Now is your time to take initiative, seek out opportunities, and step confidently into the next chapter of your life. As you plan your time between now and graduation, remember that this is an exciting moment that can lead to possibilities, great growth, and exciting outcomes. Be creative, entrepreneurial and open to new experiences and professional networks while continuing to clarify your interests, purpose, and goals.
Micki Meyer is the assistant vice president of student affairs for engagement at Rollins College.
https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2026/02/05/commentary-a-checklist-for-soon-to-be-college-graduates/
