I’M A GRADUATE!
It sounds impressive, right? A whole graduate; degree in hand, ready to take on the world. The title alone should open doors. It should mean success, financial freedom, and a bright future. But here’s the brutal reality that no one prepared us for: being a graduate doesn’t guarantee you a job.
For months, you sit at home, refreshing job boards, sending countless applications, and hearing nothing back. Family members keep asking, “So, any job yet?” And every time, the question stings a little more. You start to feel frustrated, maybe even embarrassed. After all this education, how am I still broke?
Meanwhile, someone else—someone without a degree—is out there working. Maybe it’s not the most glamorous job, but they’re earning, learning, and moving forward. They’re figuring things out, while you’re stuck waiting.
The Hard Truth: A Degree Alone Won’t Pay Your Bills
Let’s be honest—society sold us a dream. We were told, study hard, get good grades, graduate, and the jobs will come. But the job market is tough, and reality doesn’t care about the perfect script we had in our heads.
Yes, education is valuable. Yes, you worked hard for that degree. But here’s what no one tells you: pride won’t put food on the table. Your bills don’t care about your qualifications. The landlord doesn’t accept “I’m a graduate” as rent payment.
What truly matters is what you do with your time. While you wait for that perfect opportunity, what are you doing to improve your situation? Are you gaining experience? Are you building skills? Are you willing to start somewhere—anywhere—to move forward?
Are You a Broke Graduate or a Smart Graduate?
There are two types of graduates:
- The Broke Graduate – The one who waits. Who refuses jobs they consider “beneath them.” Who believes they deserve better but takes no action to change their situation.
- The Smart Graduate – The one who understands that success is a journey. Who is willing to start somewhere, gain experience, and build their way up.
Which one are you?
If you’re tired of being broke, if you’re tired of feeling stuck, then it’s time for a mindset shift. It’s time to stop waiting and start doing.
The Growth Process: Why Starting Small is Powerful
Think about the most successful people you admire. How many of them started at the top? None. Every great entrepreneur, CEO, and industry leader started somewhere. Some waited tables. Some worked as assistants. Some took unpaid internships. The difference? They understood that growth happens when you take action, not when you wait.
Your first job doesn’t have to be your dream job. It just has to be a step towards it.
Respect Those Who Are Making Money—They’re Ahead of You
Ever looked down on someone doing a so-called “lowly” job? Maybe it’s a waiter, a cleaner, or a shop attendant. But guess what? They have something you don’t—an income.
They are earning, while you are waiting. They are building skills, while you are complaining. They are making connections, while you are making excuses.
It’s time to change your perspective. Respect anyone who is making an honest living, because they are doing something right.
Your Future is in Your Hands
So, what will it be? Will you keep waiting, hoping that the perfect opportunity magically appears? Or will you take control, start somewhere, and build your way up?
Your degree is a tool, not a ticket. It’s up to you to use it wisely. The choice is yours: Stay stuck, or take the step that will change everything.
Don’t wait. Don’t settle for being a broke graduate. Take action!
Daraja la Amani 