In the blink of an eye my college graduation arrived and disappeared. That day, when I walked across the stage, my entire college career seemed to flash before my eyes, and now, I stare face to face with my unknown destiny.

My professors, mentors and friends gave me a slight inkling at what this life after a degree would look like but no words can describe that feeling until you actually get there yourself. It’s scary, mind-blowing and yet exciting. I have the entire world at my fingertips. I am in charge of my future. I can go wherever my heart desires, and I can follow the path to life I’ve always dreamed of. The only problem is; how in the world do I get there?

With my new degree in hand, I have found myself jobless fighting against thousands of other candidates for the same positions. The suffering economy has brought an intense level of competition amongst recent grads. To land a good job it now takes a lot more than “just applying”. It takes skills, unique traits, ambition and creativity to even catch a glance from HR. So what do you do when you find yourself on the stepping stones to a new career somewhere in between a degree and a job?

Below, are the guidelines I’ve set for myself during my search for the perfect career:

1. Create a list of things you want out of life. Where do you see yourself? What do you want to do? Do you have a preference on where you would like to live? What is your desired salary?
2. Research. Figure out which cities are seeking recent grads for work and which states have low unemployment rates. Discover job Web Sites that target your field for work opportunities.
3. Take your list and align it with a job opportunity that seems fit. Do your interests/needs match up with what is required for you in this job? Would you be happy with this location?
4. Update your resume, cover letters and portfolio. If your information is out dated, chances are, the company will over look you. Companies want someone who takes priority in keeping up-to-date with important documents and right now, that document is you.
5. Network. Network. Network. Even if your friends are in different areas of work, you’d be surprised with who they may know.
6. Be open to new information and opportunities. Be careful not to shut the door on something new to you. That opportunity may be something you may enjoy.
7. Volunteer. If you are having a difficult time finding a full-time job, volunteering is a good way to try new things, help a good cause, meet new people and discover new things you may be good at.
8. Keep updated on social media. Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook are great sites for networking and they can be a great tool for letting people know you are on the job market. On Twitter, sign up for city job listings. The updates will go directly to your page. Keep your social media pages professional.
9. Continue learning even after your degree. Your time spent “off” during your job hunt can become valuable time you can enrich your skills. Read books, practice what you do best and do what you can to keep up-to-date with everything that is going on in your field.

This “in between” time can be scary but it is exciting. Remember to take the time to develop a plan and breathe. It’s okay if you don’t find that perfect opportunity right after college, but don’t give up or give in.

Remember this: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going!” Life after graduation is a gift. We, as recent grads, have the entire world in front of us. We can decide where we want to live, who we want to become and how we are going to get there. So never give up on your search for complete happiness. You will find your place in this “life after college” world, I promise. We will all do it together.