What I Wish Every Young Graduate Knew?

Stepping out of college and into the “real world” is exciting—and overwhelming. I’ve been there. As a fresh graduate, I was full of energy, curiosity, and yes—questions. And in the years since, I’ve had the privilege of getting mentored by some incredible individuals on professional and personal front.

🎓 Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever

Let’s face it: university doesn’t teach you how to navigate meetings, office politics, imposter syndrome, or figuring out what you actually want from your career.

That’s where mentorship and coaching come in. It’s not about giving answers—it’s about helping youth ask better questions, reflect, and build the confidence to figure things out for themselves.

💡 5 Lessons I Often Share with New Grads

1. You don’t need to have it all figured out

Seriously. No one does. Your 20s are a time to try, explore, and learn. Careers are no longer linear—and that’s okay.

🧭 Focus on building skills, not titles. Learn how to learn. The rest will follow.

2. Ask questions—even the “dumb” ones

The smartest people I know ask the most questions. Questions show curiosity, not weakness. They help you grow faster than trying to fake it.

🌱 Pro tip: Start every new job or project with this mindset—“I’m here to learn, not impress.”

3. Feedback is a gift (even when it stings)

Early in your career, feedback can feel personal. But it’s one of the fastest ways to grow if you learn how to receive it, process it, and apply it.

🎯 Try this: After every project, ask “What’s one thing I could do better next time?”

4. Find (and become) a mentor

Mentors won’t magically appear—you often have to ask. But when you find someone who believes in you and is willing to share their experience, it’s a game changer.

🤝 At the same time, look behind you. You can mentor someone just one step earlier in their journey. That’s powerful, too.

5. Work hard, but protect your energy

Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. Yes, work hard—but also work smart. Set boundaries. Protect your curiosity and creativity. Long-term success isn’t a sprint.

⚖️ Your career is a marathon. Pace yourself.

🗣️ My Approach to Coaching Grads

When I coach or mentor, I focus on:

• Listening more than I talk

• Helping them reflect, not just react

• Encouraging experiments over perfection

• Creating a safe space to fail, learn, and try again

Coaching isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about walking beside someone as they figure things out.

🌟 Final Thoughts

If you’re a young graduate: be kind to yourself. You’re not supposed to know it all right now. Seek out mentors. Ask lots of questions. Take ownership of your growth.

And if you’re someone with a few years (or decades) of experience—look for ways to support, coach, and uplift the next generation. They need us. And honestly? We need them, too.

💬 Let’s Talk

What’s one piece of advice you wish you had when you were just starting out? Or if you're a recent grad—what’s one thing you're struggling with right now?

Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear your story.