Bachelor Degrees and Big Girl Bills

When you're in college, they show you the statistics (and salary figures) that you should be making upon graduation based on your major. A degree is advertised as your ticket to making 6 figures.

What they don't advertise? The interest rates on student loans, the fact that you might actually not like your first job, that rent in cities takes most of your paycheck, and becoming a young adult is frustrating.

But hey... you won't have homework anymore.. so its all worth it right?

No matter what company or trade that you start with upon graduation, there are a couple things as a recent graduate you should remind yourself..

1. Be Patient with Your Career

It was important for me to give myself a "reality check" upon graduation. With little experience and a piece of paper like everyone else, it is important to realize that this is only the beginning. There is no predicting what your career path might unfold to, but you're in control of your own future.

You Might Not Know what You Want Right Now. You might not like your first job.. plain and simple. You might also start at a company that you can see yourself at for the next 30 years. Whatever your feelings may be, it is important to remind yourself that this is just the beginning. You are not stuck in a position, city, job, or career path. You have the opportunity to change your mind.

The Money Will Come. I made the mistake of thinking that with a business degree, I would be seeing large numbers on my first salary. I shouldn't still be living paycheck to paycheck.. right? Since I'm supporting myself on a sole income, living in a major city, and paying off debts that I acquired in school... it can become frustrating to see my money slipping out the window. But my bills are paid every month.

Remember that the opportunity to increase your salary will present itself over time. Do yourself a favor - ask your parents what they made when they first started out.. A CEO salary will not come to you on year one.

2. Save, Save, Save

Before graduating college, I signed with a financial adviser. I read books about the best way to save here and there. Don't get me wrong, I am NO Dave Ramsey.. but it was important to me that I started thinking about my future before it even began (mostly because I would like to give up my cube and live on a ranch one day).

Make a monthly budget. With a brand new paycheck, it may seem glamorous to be able to see the opportunity to buy tons of shoes.. but do you really need that $5 coffee every morning? Be mindful of what you spend. Set aside a certain amount of money a month that you put in a savings account. Helpful tip? I opened a savings account at a bank I would never go to.. which keeps away the temptation of transferring money out.

Maximize Your Retirement Contribution. Most companies allow you to contribute to a 401K and might even match some of the amount that you contribute. Do NOT have the mindset that "I'm so young... I'll think of retirement later.. I want my money NOW!" The suggested retirement contribution from each paycheck is 4% minimum.. I contribute 10%. With the money coming out of your paycheck before you even see it - why not start saving as much as you can now? You'll thank yourself later.

3. Take a Lunch Break

I get it... you are at a new time in your life - wanting to prove yourself to your colleagues and boss. You want to show commitment. We've all heard the phrase "be the first one there and the last one to leave". Just remember to take care of yourself as you start this new journey.

By something as simple as taking a lunch break during the day (and not letting yourself check your email), you allow your mind to take a time-out. Enjoy your food and conversation with friends.. or enjoy the peace and quiet of being alone! Either way some days you honestly just need to take the full-hour of time to turn your head off.

Although your career is just starting and you want to be committed as possible - remember that your well being is just as important. Stop stressing about things that are only temporary. Allow yourself to take a vacation. If you need a day off to be with family - take it. Your work will speak for itself.

You are more important than your career.

Just like the fresh employee next to you, it is important to remind yourself to keep learning. In time, you'll learn what you eventually want your career path to look like. In time, you'll learn exactly what financial situation and lifestyle looks for you. In time, you'll find out the perfect work-life balance. Enjoy this exciting time in your life! Be practical, pro-active, and present.. but most importantly - be yourself!