How to Beat Post-Grad Nostalgia this Fall

By: Sara Volka

To many, summer’s end marks a pivotal point in the year. The chill in the air acts as a sign, a cue to ready ourselves for fall’s many responsibilities and commitments. Years of being in school have taught us that come August, change is imminent. We have become accustomed to the routine of welcoming the new normal. Schedules release, clubs return with new members, and you begin to feel inspired by the idea of a fresh start, a new year. 

However, for those of us who recently graduated, the usual magic of autumn does not have the same effect that it once did. 

As a 2025 grad myself, I can personally attest to this feeling of lack. Oftentimes, I find myself missing the rush of college move-in and comparing classes with friends. I feel nostalgic for a time that has passed, not even a year ago, wishing to return to the structure of a school routine. There is a stark difference between this fall and last year's fall, and if you are here reading this now– I know you certainly feel it too. 

So, if you’re feeling particularly lost like me, and if the job search isn’t helping, here is a fall to-do list I’ve created to remedy the gap. 

1. Commit Yourself to Something New

A professor suggested this to me after I had told him about my fears surrounding post-grad life. I wondered how I would function without the constant shelter of having something to do or learn. The truth is, we are never not learning, and there is nothing stopping us from fulfilling that want to learn. 

There is no need to completely drop the routine of new beginnings this fall. We can pick up a new hobby, or try to learn a new language. We can take independent classes like music, dance, or film. We can join a book club, or go to our local libraries to see what organization appeals to us. These are all ways we can continue to grow and move, all while allowing ourselves that fresh start feeling. If there was ever a time for you to invest in an interest you’ve always had, it is now. 

New hobbies are also a way to find community, as they are a gateway to new friendships and connections. Who knows, maybe this one hobby can turn into a long term commitment for you! Young adulthood is all about putting yourself out there and chasing new experiences.

2. Switch it Up

If you feel as though you need to advance some type of change, the best way to do that is by changing something physically. Many studies show that our environment has a profound impact on our mood, that includes our own homes and bedrooms! 

Rearranging your space can act as a mental reset, giving you both a new environment and state of mind. This also goes hand-in-hand with redecorating! Take a trip to your local thrift store, grab some new trinkets and posters, and get to planning out your space. I did this recently after my move back home from college, and it worked wonders for my mental health. It was a way for me to revamp my life and embrace newness. Sometimes, all we need is a little environmental adjustment to gain some motivation and clarity.

3. Stay Moving

Trust me, I know the convenience of being home and staying inside all day, but bed rotting is OUT! I cannot stress how damaging it is to spend every moment in isolation scrolling on TikTok or Instagram. It’s not only completely unhealthy, but it is also limiting your potential and general happiness! 

When you wake up in the morning, get up and stretch, make breakfast, read a book, do anything you can to keep yourself from falling into that routine. Schedule your day out how you would when you were in school. Set aside time for daily activities and hobbies, and be sure to step outside of the house at least once. Also, make plans with your friends and with yourself! Recently, I’ve been enjoying my own company while getting coffee, running errands, and going to cafes. This is more than just treating yourself, it is self-care.

Staying on your feet, no matter how you choose to, will keep you moving and going forwards. Enjoy this fall to the fullest, you deserve to have fun!

While you’re venturing out and learning new hobbies, it’s vital to remember that all progress is good progress. Each day that you are moving is a step towards your goals and your future. Even by just getting up in the morning, you are committing yourself to a new day. By reminding yourself of this, you are taking the pressure off and making space for more productivity, motivation, and creativity. Believe in your potential, as it’s already there inside you!

So for now, try new things, maybe fail at a few (and be okay with that). We are still discovering the many avenues of life, and that is a wonderful thing. I am excited for you!