Graduation Is Coming. What's Your Next Move?

Graduation is a big accomplishment. After months—or even years—of classes, assignments, exams, and balancing college with everything else in your life, you are finally reaching the finish line.

But sometimes, getting close to graduation brings a new question: What happens after this?

You might feel proud of what you have accomplished while still being unsure about your next step. That is completely understandable. You do not have to have your entire future figured out before you graduate. Instead, start by thinking about what direction makes the most sense for where you are now.

Your Next Step Could Look Different From Someone Else's
After graduating from Lemoore College, there is no single path you have to follow. Your next step might involve transferring to a four-year university, starting a career, continuing your education, or taking some time to figure out what comes next.

If you are not sure which direction fits your goals,               Lemoore College Counseling & Advising can help you explore academic, career, and transfer options. Counselors can also help you understand your degree requirements, create an educational plan, and connect you with other campus resources.

Thinking About Transferring?
If earning a bachelor's degree is part of your plan, graduation from Lemoore College may be one step toward transferring to a four-year university.

Start by identifying the schools and majors you are interested in. Then, check their transfer requirements and make sure you understand which courses and credits apply toward your intended degree.

Lemoore College Transfer Services can help you review transfer pathways, understand requirements, explore transfer guarantees, and connect with four-year university representatives.

You do not have to figure out the transfer process alone. A conversation with a counselor can help you turn your general idea into a specific plan.

Ready to Start Your Career?
Maybe your goal is to use your degree or certificate to enter the workforce. If you are ready to start looking for jobs, now is a good time to make sure you are prepared to apply.

Start with the basics:

  • Update your resume.
  • Create or update your LinkedIn profile.
  • Practice answering interview questions.
  • Look for jobs related to your education and interests.
  • Identify employers you would like to work for.
  • Consider internships, work-based learning, or other opportunities to gain experience.

The Lemoore College Workforce Internship Networking (WIN) Center offers career support including resume and cover-letter assistance, interview practice, career resources, professional clothing through the Eagle Closet, and job-search resources.

You do not need to wait until after graduation to start preparing. Taking a few small steps now can make the transition from college to the workplace feel more manageable.

Not Sure What You Want Yet?
You may be graduating without knowing exactly what career or educational path you want. That does not mean you have fallen behind.

Start by asking yourself a few questions:

  • What did I enjoy studying?
  • What skills have I developed?
  • What kind of work interests me?
  • Do I want to continue my education?
  • What kind of lifestyle do I want my future career to support?
  • What opportunities would I like to explore before making a decision?

You can also connect with Lemoore College Counseling & Advising for career counseling and goal-setting support. Counseling services include career assessments, one-on-one career counseling, resume and cover-letter support, job-search strategies, and referrals to career resources.

Take Care of the Graduation Details, Too
While you are thinking about what comes next, make sure you have completed the steps required to graduate.

Review Lemoore College's graduation and commencement information for important information about graduation requirements, commencement, regalia, and other graduate details. If you have questions about your petition to graduate, Lemoore College directs students to Admissions for assistance.

And remember to check your student email regularly. Lemoore College uses student email to communicate important commencement updates and deadlines.

You Do Not Have to Know Everything Yet
Graduation can feel like an ending, but it is also the beginning of whatever comes next.

You have already made progress by getting to this point. Now, give yourself permission to take the next step one decision at a time.

If you know what you want: start making a plan.

If you are unsure: talk with a counselor or career professional.

If you are exploring: give yourself time to learn about your options.

Your next move does not have to define your entire future. It just needs to help you move forward.

Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Start with the Lemoore College resource that matches where you are today:

Counseling & Advising — Get help with academic, career, and transfer planning.
Transfer Services — Explore four-year universities and transfer pathways.
WIN Center — Get help with resumes, interviews, job searches, and career preparation.
Graduation & Commencement Information — Review graduation and commencement information.
Lemoore College Student Resources — Explore additional campus services and support.