Graduating Early

Name: Martin Bazua

Year: 3rd Year (Graduating Senior)

Major: Business Administration

Hello, my name is Martin Bazua. I am a 3rd year Business Administration major who is graduating in Spring 2018. I want to share my thoughts on a subject popular in the minds of graduating students and students overall. That subject is what awaits you after graduation.

I have been asked, “what are you going to do after you graduate?” or “why are you graduating a year early?” These questions have been in my mind ever since I discovered that I could graduate at the end of my 3rd year. My answer is because I want to begin obtaining work experience in an effort to attend a MBA program in the future. UC Riverside has provided me the opportunities to find work experience and information that has impacted my decisions regarding my future careers. I am thankful for the people I have met at UCR, but more importantly, I am thankful for the message the school has delivered to its student body. The pursuit to excellence and living the promise envisioned by our professors for our future success is exponential to the drive our students have. If you are an individual who does not know what they want to do in the future or are worried about what awaits after graduation, do not let that hinder your actions. Reach out to the available services and resources our school offers and have an open mind. You will be surprised what can be tailored towards your passions. Take charge of your future and make the best decisions you possibly can.

I am not someone who hopes to receive attention or sympathy due to my struggles or experiences. However, I do recognize when something needs to be said for the benefit of others. As many students can relate, there is the uncertainty of what is next after graduation. That fear consumes our every action and may lead to poor decisions or uninterested career paths for the sake of generating an income. This struggle is evident in the lives of first generation students whom have not been exposed to certain networks or industries that other students may have. This is not due to status or race, but the environment people were raised in. Evidently, first generation students may only be familiar with the jobs their families members have had, therefore going to college is a culture shock when discovering there are a plethora of opportunities awaiting their skills and knowledge. I worry that I may have not experienced enough opportunities to determine my career path; however I recognize that what you study WILL NOT determine your future careers. As students, we may have time to discover our passions and interests. For those who may not have time to waste, be alert and never lose hope. Reach out to your network and community, you may not know what is available. In the end, your decision is final, but accept change and support that could lead to that decision. It may be for the best.

#whotellsyourstory #graduation