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After surviving years of elementary education, secondary education, and college and university experiences, students and their parents feel a sense of joy and accomplishment upon graduation; however, sometimes those feelings are quickly replaced by the uncertainty of what may be ahead. With an unpredictable economy and an ever-evolving job market, facing the real world after years of the relative safety of school can be daunting for young adults who long for independence and parents who want to see their children succeed.
The key to making a smooth transition from college into the real world comes years earlier, and it can be as simple as starting a dialogue with your kids while they are still formulating ideas about what they want to do when they grow up. The earlier you begin talking to your children about their future, the more prepared they will be for what lies ahead. It also may be helpful to include others in the conversation, such as counselors at the high school and university levels, who may provide insight and perspective during a stressful time for parents and their children. Area career counselors agree that the best way to open the discussion is to do some research and keep an open mind.
"I recommend that parents allow the student to explore various majors and classes during their first few semesters in college," says Jill Parker, director of career services at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW). "The classes...