Starter Kit for College Graduates

Once you pack up your things and move home out of your dorm, it’s normal to nervously ask yourself, “Well, what do I do now?”

It’s intimidating to think about everything you need to start planning for now that you’re officially entering the so-called “real world.” This is where a starter kit can come in handy; use this checklist to make your first strides as a college graduate.

1. College diploma

If you’ve gotten this far, you probably have this already! (See, this won’t be so bad.)

2. Updated resume and CV

Have this ready and tailored to internships and jobs that you are applying for.

3. Updated LinkedIn profile

Companies will use AI tools to seek out potential candidates on LinkedIn. Make sure that your title, work experience, and accolades are all up to date.

4. Letters of recommendation

These will come in handy for a few reasons; internships and employers commonly ask you to provide them with letters of recommendation if they are interested in you as a candidate for the position. Some even require these when you are submitting your resume and CV. You will likely also need a letter or two when you are trying to rent an apartment. It’s best to have these handy so that you don’t keep anyone waiting, which could result in you loosing a position or apartment.

5. Wardrobe

Once you get the job offer, you’ll need to be ready to dress for the occasion. Whether you work in an office or need appropriate clothing for a more hands-on environment, having your wardrobe ready to work will leave you prepared to start immediately.

6. An updated government-issued photo ID

This will be important when opening a bank account, renting an apartment, filing out new-hire paperwork, and more. Those DMV lines are a hassle, but it’s best to do them when you have time instead of scrambling for documentation last minute.

7. Know where your Social Security Card is

This document is crucial in most application processes whether that be for a job, an apartment, a student loan, etc.. If your SSN card is lost or stolen, you can replace it for free on the Social Security Administration’s website.

8. Proof of income

Whether this be a paystub, W2 Form, or a bank statement, this documentation will be critical when renting an apartment and opening credit cards.

9. Determine a cosigner

Like a letter of recommendation, you should establish a cosigner as soon as you can. Given that you are just out of college, landlords and student loan plans will likely require you to have someone that can cover any expenses in the event that you can’t.

10. A good internet connection

These days, practically everything happens online. Whether it be an application or the potential to work from home, a stable internet connection will cut down tech frustrations and increase accessibility to opportunities.

11. Think about what’s important to you

At this point in your life, the world is your oyster. Consider where you may want to live, what job benefits are important to you, and how can you best set yourself up for success.

This is part of a bigger series that was designed to guide recent college graduates towards reaching their professional goals and benefiting from their studies. Check out our guide to post-graduate life to learn how to leverage your degree financially.

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

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