Feeling discouraged

I didn't grow up very rich (family is lower middle class) and even now they still live paycheck to paycheck and money is tight for the family. I recently graduated from college this past May and so far I don't have a job lined up in spite of my efforts networking and applying. I really want to retire my parents who are immigrants so they can be able to know that their hard work paid off. I can't help but feel awful. If there was anyone who was in the same shoes as me, how were you able to overcome or deal with this? 

5 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice from individuals who have faced similar challenges:

  1. Recognize Your Motivation:

    • One user shared that what got them through insecurity was the blunt recognition that they were pursuing their path to provide a better life for their parents. They were sincerely grateful for the opportunity their parents provided and wanted to give back everything they could.
  2. Stay Connected and Keep Networking:

    • Another user suggested reaching out to alumni and cold info interview requests. This can help you stay connected with your friends and keep you grounded in reality.
  3. Understand That Many Have Faced Similar Struggles:

    • A Certified Private Equity Professional shared their experience of being laid off during the financial crisis, making thousands of cold calls before landing clients, and living off coupons and free meals. They emphasized that most people have had ups and downs in life.
  4. Focus on the Bigger Picture:

    • One user mentioned that their atypical background and non-typical thinking were what they brought to the table. They faced significant challenges, such as quitting school to work full-time due to a family illness and returning to school years later. Despite these obstacles, they managed to learn tons both inside and outside the classroom.
  5. Maintain a Positive Attitude:

    • Another user highlighted the importance of attitude. They reflected on their undergrad experiences, acknowledging both regrets and valuable lessons learned. They emphasized that these experiences made them who they are today.
  6. Seek Support and Advice:

    • If you feel overwhelmed, remember that it's okay to seek support and advice from others who have been in similar situations. Sharing your struggles and hearing how others overcame theirs can provide valuable perspective and encouragement.

Remember, many successful individuals in finance and other fields have faced significant challenges and setbacks. Your determination and resilience can help you overcome these obstacles and achieve your goals.

Sources: How do I survive Wall Street as a 1st generation college student?, How to Overcome Class Barriers, How I'll survive graduation and you will to, How I'll survive graduation and you will to, Unemployed and living in parents' basement, losing hope

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

You have plenty of time to find a job by May. Just spend a few hours applying and networking every day.

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee
 

I had tough time in my early careers too. I know it won't help but, toughen up, try harder than you have before, be critical of yourself and how you've done things in the past and be better. While you do all this, you're likely to going to have someone bring you fortune. Sounds like a fortune cookie line but it's happened to me before..

Good luck & hang in there.

 
Most Helpful

Persistence and Determination — Field Good Life

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee
 

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