The clock is ticking down, and graduation is 22 days away. Four years of classes, assignments, and evenings with your friends have all led to this moment – now what? A recent poll asked Maroons what their plans were following graduation. The results showed that students have many opportunities and bright futures ahead of them following college.
The voting data was gathered from two groups: one through a personalized poll where students could be directly contacted for more commentary, and the other via anonymous voting on YikYak.
Coming out on top of the poll was career life with 162 total votes (148 anonymous and 14 personal). It’s no joke that college is expensive, but it really pushes you to learn and grow. Starting out with a career right out of college is a huge feat that should be celebrated, and these students with opportunities lined up after graduation are ready to take on the world and change their communities.
The runner up was further education with 108 total votes (97 anonymous and 11 personal). Further education is another amazing option that lets you dive deeper into your major and explore passions on a higher level.
In third place came finding yourself with 37 total votes (29 anonymous and 8 personal). Sometimes college is really a blur, and you just need to take time to find yourself after the whirlwind of the last 4 years. Finding yourself could be all sorts of things, but anything you do during this time is a great way to figure out what you want to do with the rest of your life and search for something that gives you purpose.
Rounding out the list came traveling with 18 total votes (16 anonymous and 2 personal). This may not be the most popular option, but it sure is the most fun one. Traveling can be a great way to celebrate earning your bachelor’s degree and getting through 4 years of higher education.
Whether you find yourself working, traveling, or furthering your education – you will carry the Maroon spirit and the lessons learned here with you wherever you go. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, opinions, and life with me. It has been an amazing four years sharing Folks of Noke with you. Here we go, Maroons and congratulations to the class of 2026!
Adriana Rose
Staff Reporter
