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Almost graduating, but unsure of life's direction, without goals, and unwilling to strive?

international student 2020 pandemic major misalignment job aspiration career uncertainty
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Almost graduating, but unsure of life's direction, without goals, and unwilling to strive? By Anonymous | Published on December 18, 2024

I am an international student from Australia, and since the 2020 pandemic, I have been abroad without returning home. Now, as I am about to graduate, I feel that my major doesn't align with the job I aspire to have, and back home, the intense competition and overwork are overwhelming. Firstly, I'm unsure whether I should return to my country for development, as no one except my parents has suggested I work here. Secondly, I'm unclear on how to plan my future, feeling lonely and unhappy, with no sense of value in either my career, life, or hobbies. This semester, I've lost motivation to study, and my state of mind is poor, feeling as if I've been abandoned by the world. I often spend a day lying in bed.

Caleb Mitchell Caleb Mitchell A total of 8926 people have been helped

The opportunity to pursue studies in Australia is a notable privilege, a source of pride and joy. However, your demeanor suggests a lack of contentment. It is possible that the graduation process has also presented unexpected challenges, leaving unresolved issues that contribute to your current state of confusion.

Upon approaching graduation, one may find oneself uncertain about one's life direction, career direction, or even one's life direction. Without a clear goal in mind, it is easy to become complacent, but this approach is unsustainable in the long term.

Procrastination over an extended period may result in the deterioration of advantageous circumstances and the original favourable conditions becoming perplexing and uncompetitive. It is possible to feel that one's academic major does not facilitate the attainment of the desired position, yet it is essential to question whether the position in question truly represents a significant objective.

The initial objective may be to secure gainful employment. The specifics of the desired occupation can be addressed subsequently, should the opportunity arise. In the context of the prevailing wave of job losses, it is evident that a stable employment status is highly sought after.

Furthermore, it is evident that individuals in China are once again engaged in excessive overtime work, which can potentially lead to feelings of distress. Is it feasible to pursue more advanced opportunities in China? This may not be a straightforward decision. Instead, it might be more beneficial to explore job prospects in Australia. It is possible to secure a position that does not evoke feelings of discontent. The feelings of loneliness and suffering you experience may also be indicative of a deeper sense of confusion.

It is recommended that the necessary career personality test be taken to ascertain the type of work that is suited to the individual, thus enabling the individual to identify their place in the world and to spend less time on their phone. It is advised that the individual go out and explore, identify the opportunities that are available to them, form friendships with the people around them, and seek counselling if they are feeling low.

Please clarify the meaning of the acronym ZQ.

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Sabrina Sabrina A total of 4679 people have been helped

Hello, question asker!

I'm Xiaobai. I don't have any worries, and I'm here to help you get rid of yours.

After reading your account, I want to give you a hug first.

I will offer some thoughts and suggestions that I believe will help you.

We must first analyze the specific problem the questioner is facing.

I'm an international student in Australia. I've been abroad since the pandemic started in 2020 and I'm almost graduating. I don't think I can do the job I want to do with my degree. Back home, people are working crazy hours. I'm considering returning home to develop my career. Apart from my parents, no one has advised me to return home to work. Second, I don't know how to plan for the future. I feel lonely and miserable, and I don't feel like I have any sense of worth, whether it's in my career or in my life or my hobbies. I've had no motivation to study since the beginning of this semester, and I'm not in a good state. I feel like the world has abandoned me. I often just lie in bed all day.

You're about to graduate, but you don't know which direction to take in life, you don't have any goals, and you don't want to work hard?

It's difficult to give advice on life because everyone's situation is different.

Determine your goals.

Many people feel lost because they haven't yet encountered a goal that makes them strive for it. The outside world is big, so take a walk, stop and think about it, ask your parents for advice, and figure out what you need. Take your time, don't rush, and don't worry. Being lost is a problem that every graduate faces, but you can overcome it.

Take a deep breath and set a goal. You'll know it's time to move on when you feel calm again.

I want to share a saying with you: I don't know where I'm going, but I'm on my way.

Everyone has bad days, but you can't stay in a state of stagnation. Adjust yourself. Every day is a new day. Cheer up and work hard.

Decide your career direction based on your personality.

If you don't have any hobbies and don't want to work in your field, then you should decide on a career direction based on your personality.

Students with an outgoing personality should look for jobs in public relations or brand marketing. Those with a calm and collected personality should seek positions that involve research and analysis.

❤️Choice is more important than effort. For recent graduates, anxiety and confusion are only temporary. Find your direction. If you're confused and anxious, relax. You don't have to go with the flow. What's right for you is what matters most.

Get yourself moving first.

When people are idle, their brains and minds generate strange ideas, such as feeling useless, feeling that they didn't go to college, and having a negative outlook on life.

My advice is simple: get yourself moving. Even if you're not looking for a job right now, don't waste each day. To improve your confusion and anxiety, you first need to change your environment and give yourself the motivation to move forward.

In summary, these are my views and suggestions, and I am confident that they will be of help to you.

Best wishes!

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Michael Lee Michael Lee A total of 3245 people have been helped

Hello, classmate! Studying in Australia is a highly sought-after experience. I'm not sure if you completed your undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

And what about postgraduate studies? Could you tell me a bit more about your intended major?

I'm afraid the amount of information you have provided is rather limited, which makes it somewhat challenging to offer a specific analysis.

I would like to start by asking you whether you wanted to study abroad or whether your parents wanted you to study abroad. Could I also ask where you think the major you study will be more developed?

It might be helpful to consider doing some research and analysis of the job market.

It's not just about whether to return or not, but the ability to adapt to social survival is undoubtedly the most important thing, which of course includes employment. I'm curious to know if you agree with my analysis.

Secondly, I would be interested to know how long you spent studying abroad. The length of time spent studying abroad is also something to consider when making your choice. After all, the national conditions are different, as are the major you study and the people you come into contact with. If it is a bachelor's degree from abroad, four years of living abroad may have already allowed you to adapt to many of the local customs in Australia.

If you were to return to China, you would have to start from scratch. Do you feel you would be able to do that?

I also know a family who graduated from an Australian undergraduate program and applied for a postgraduate program. They are also about to graduate, but they chose to return to China for employment. They felt that their family and friends were all in China, and that the pandemic made it a good time to return.

If circumstances allow, you might also consider working abroad for a couple of years and then returning to gain some experience. It's never too late to return when you're ready. (If your parents are young and you don't need to take care of them for the time being, it might be a good option.)

I would be interested to hear your thoughts on this.

It might be said that a person in a foreign land feels as though they are in a city they cannot stay in, or a hometown they cannot return to. Indeed, children who are studying abroad may be considered to be patriotic in spirit.

After all, the motherland can be a great source of support when needed.

Perhaps it would be helpful to consider which kind of life you would prefer. After all, this is an important decision.

Perhaps you might consider that returning home after completing your studies and contributing to the country could make you feel more worthwhile.

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Alexandra Alexandra A total of 879 people have been helped

Hello! I totally get where you're coming from. As you near graduation, it's totally normal to feel a bit lost about the future. And on top of that, you've added another layer of confusion about whether to return to your home country.

First, I want to talk to you about your major. It seems like you're having some trouble finding a job that you're excited about. Have you thought about what you'll do after graduation? It's an important decision, and I'm here to help you figure it out. You have two main options: either continue your studies in your major or accept your current abilities and lower your expectations.

It's also worth thinking about how your field of study is developing in your home country. The good news is that there are very few professions that are not in demand there. And in the long term, it looks like the development trend in your home country is on the rise, which is great!

Secondly, if your profession isn't in high demand abroad, I honestly believe that returning home will be a better choice for you. Every place needs capable people, especially in a foreign country. However, as you mentioned, I'm afraid your professional abilities aren't quite up to the requirements yet, so you might have to do relatively low-level work for now.

Of course, your income will also be lower. I'm really sorry to say that it might be difficult to improve the loneliness and pain you are currently feeling.

Finally, a person's quality of life depends on more than just work. It's also about life, family, and friends. While you might be able to neglect these things when you're abroad, when you come home and face challenges, you'll realize how much it means to have someone there for you, quietly supporting you.

I really hope you find the best option for you. I wish you all the best!

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Rosalind Rosalind A total of 7790 people have been helped

Dear Question Asker,

After reviewing your inquiry, I have mixed feelings. As an international student in Australia, I admire your situation. I also admire your family's financial stability. However, I am concerned about your current state and the perception that the world has abandoned you, leading to extended periods of bed rest. I believe that your decision not to provide financial support for your child's activities may have benefits. I am unsure if your circumstances are related to your time in Australia. Have you not returned to China since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020? I empathize with your current sense of powerlessness. Best regards.

In my estimation, the primary issue you have identified does not appear to be a significant obstacle. If you are resolved to pursue your career in Australia for a minimum of two years or indefinitely, it is unlikely that your parents will strongly dissuade you. While they may have a preference for you to return to China to work, if you are determined to do otherwise, I believe they will respect your decision.

I believe the crux of the issue lies in your second question. I am unsure of how to plan for the future. I feel isolated and unhappy, and I question my value, whether in my career, personal life, or hobbies. I have lacked motivation to study since the beginning of this semester, and I am not in an optimal state of mind. I feel as though the world has turned its back on me. I often spend the entire day in bed. How does this state of mind contribute to feelings of loneliness abroad?

I mention this because I associate it with my own experience of studying. I often felt adrift, lacking a sense of grounding. I was frequently homesick and thinking about my parents. It was a challenging period, but when I graduated, I was still willing to stay and work in that city. What motivated me to stay and work?

Perhaps it was because all the students around me wanted to stay. Fortunately, my family's financial situation at the time also prevented me from staying. Despite the great effort, when I look back on that time at school, I really don't know how to get through the state of missing home so much and feeling lonely working there.

Now that I've returned to my hometown, I may not be as well-connected as my classmates who stayed in the city, but I have my own way of enjoying myself. Based on my experience, I would suggest that if your loneliness is caused by leaving your parents and relatives behind, you consider returning to work in China. This would be for the benefit of your parents and yourself.

I understand you are discussing your experience of working in China, which often involves significant overtime. As a doctor in Australia, I am not fully aware of the specific circumstances. However, I believe that a more relaxed work environment could allow for more free time. Prolonged exposure to this situation may have adverse effects. In my opinion, this is something to consider.

I would like to inform you that my son, who is also a graduate student, is pursuing a degree in computer science with a focus on artificial intelligence. He is currently seeking employment opportunities and has expressed reservations about working extended hours. He believes that his current workload is beyond his physical limits. On a separate note, my daughter has recently entered into an agreement with a company that aligns with her expectations. If you decide to return to China, you will likely be able to find a suitable unit that aligns with your preferences, provided that you do not require extended work hours.

Ultimately, it is not possible to have everything. We must choose between two options. No one here can provide the most appropriate advice, as it is then up to you to follow your own heart. However, I believe the most important thing is that, whether you are developing in Australia or returning to China, you must currently improve yourself and enhance your abilities so that you can bring your greatest potential to bear.

If you can demonstrate that you were positive and optimistic during the period leading up to graduation and that you worked hard to improve yourself in all aspects, you may be able to investigate the Australian Certificate and inquire about this aspect of work in China. It is advisable to conduct further research independently, as only through hands-on experience can you gain the knowledge and expertise to make informed decisions, rather than relying on others' opinions and guidance. By doing so, you will be better prepared for future employment opportunities in Australia or China, as you will have a personal understanding of the role and the ability to navigate it effectively.

I am unaware of the circumstances facing international students. Is it possible for you to send your resume from China at this juncture? It would be unwise to spend the entire day in bed.

You may choose to spend half a day resting and the other half engaging in physical activity, exploring the area, and then returning to your computer to review your resume. Once you have completed it, you may send it domestically or to Australia. Only through action can you gradually approach the future you want and the choice of your future development.

I hope you will take action. I wish you the best in your job search and look forward to welcoming you to a new role soon.

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Cameron Cameron A total of 2187 people have been helped

Share your insights. I'm talking to myself.

I think you're at an age where you're thinking about going back to China. When I was your age, I didn't have such a hard time thinking.

When you and I were the same age, life seemed to force you to leave school and take on family responsibilities. I'm proud of you for becoming an exchange student. I'm glad you have the chance to choose at your age.

The pandemic has shown us how good it is to be healthy and alive! Some people say this is the worst and best of times.

Your parents miss you. No matter how old you are, parents want their children close by. You may not feel this now, but you will when you have children.

You are the only one who can answer your own problems. Parents and others may give well-intentioned advice, but you know your own life best. No life choice is perfect. You may bypass obstacles now, but you will discover that you will not be missing any of them.

I have no plan for the future. I feel worthless. I don't want to study. I'm not in a good state. It's like the current environment. Everyone is facing this pandemic without a smoke war. We can feel the unpredictability and sense of endlessness from the people, things, and objects around us.

We don't know what tomorrow will bring. Can we change this?

What can we do?

We can adapt to this environment, learn the rules, and strive to survive.

The world will never abandon anyone. If you feel abandoned, you're wrong. No matter how bad things are, if you don't give up, you can move forward.

If you're abandoned by the world, it's because you abandoned it first.

An international student is luckier than me. I'll regret not going to university. Your parents have supported us until today. They don't want you to be depressed. We can't help you. We can only offer a little comfort. You are the only one who can get out of this.

In the end, you are the only one who can get out of this.

There are no absolute right or wrongs in life. Every choice and step counts!

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Comments

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Odell Davis Life is a horse, and either you ride it or it rides you.

I totally get how you're feeling. It's really tough being so far from home for such a long time, especially with everything that has happened since 2020. Not knowing where to start with your career and feeling disconnected can be really overwhelming. Maybe it's time to take a step back and think about what truly makes you happy and consider talking to a counselor who might help you sort through these feelings.

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Athenais Thomas Growth is a journey of learning to see the growth that comes from being more patient with ourselves and others.

It sounds like you're going through a really hard time right now, both emotionally and professionally. The uncertainty about your future must be incredibly stressful. Have you thought about reaching out to alumni or professional networks in your field of interest? Sometimes speaking with people who have gone through similar experiences can provide new insights and maybe even opportunities that you hadn't considered before.

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Jocelyn Bryant The journey of learning is filled with surprises and revelations.

Feeling lost and unmotivated is something many students face, especially around graduation. It's important not to isolate yourself. Perhaps engaging in community activities or joining groups related to your interests could help you feel more connected and give you a sense of belonging. Also, setting small, achievable goals for yourself might help rebuild your motivation gradually.

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Vera Thorne A teacher's encouragement is the fuel that powers a student's journey of learning.

The pressure to decide on your next steps after graduation is immense, and it's clear you're struggling with the direction you want your life to take. It's okay to not have all the answers right away. You could explore different options, including staying abroad for a while longer to gain some experience or taking a gap year to travel or volunteer. Sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal growth.

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