Graduation is just around the corner, Warhawks! As you prepare to turn in your late-night study sessions for new opportunities ahead, it’s important to tie up loose ends and step confidently into the next chapter of your life. Whether you’re feeling ready to soar or are a little overwhelmed, here’s a step by step process to make the transition smooth and stress-free.

1. Update Your Resume

First things first, refresh your resume! Highlight skills, experiences, and accomplishments you’ve gained here at UW-Whitewater. Tailor it for each industry, business, job, or roles you’re pursuing, and don’t forget to include internships, leadership roles, and relevant coursework. Need help? Career Services hosts resume cafés and has your back with expert advice and resources. You also have free access to LinkedIn Learning while you’re an active student on campus, so earn some certifications to help you stand out and update your LinkedIn profile. 

2. Create a Master Portfolio

Regardless of the school you are in or the degree you are pursuing, building a portfolio is a great way to showcase your work. Include any projects, papers, designs, or presentations that demonstrate your abilities. A master portfolio also allows you to pull different pieces of work for specific opportunities. 

*Tip: Organize everything digitally so it’s easy to update and share.

3. Backup and Transfer Your Files

Don’t leave behind all your hard work! Backup any files saved on your school account, whether it’s essays, presentations, or spreadsheets, and transfer them to a personal drive or cloud storage. Once you graduate, you will lose access to the school-provided accounts, so make sure your documents stay with you after you walk the stage.

4. Apply for Jobs

If you haven’t already started, now’s the time to dive into the job search. Use platforms like LinkedIn, Handshake, and Indeed to find opportunities in your field. Attend career fairs, network with alumni, and tailor your cover letters to each role. Remember, persistence pays off, it may seem stressful, but keep at it!

5. Apply for Graduation

It sounds obvious, but applying for graduation is a crucial step! Be aware of the deadlines and complete all the necessary paperwork, forms, and tasks to ensure you’ll walk across the stage. Visit the Registrar’s Office or their website if you’re unsure about the process. 

6. Order Your Cap and Gown

You can’t officially graduate without the iconic cap and gown! Place your order through the UWW Bookstore to ensure you have everything you need, from the tassel to the gown. Once you have all the goods to graduate, take your graduation photos across campus. If you need location inspiration check out our blog. 

7. Salute to Grads at the Bookstore

Stop by the campus bookstore for the “Salute to Grads” event! It’s a one-stop shop for all your graduation needs. Meet with different departments for announcements, diploma frames, and even Warhawk gear to celebrate your achievement in style. Some of the stations you can meet people at include Handshake, Jostens, the Registrar’s Office, the UWW Alumni Association, and more! 

8. Create a Post-Graduation Plan

Plan ahead for what’s next for you! Whether it’s starting a full-time job, pursuing grad school, or traveling the world, take some time to map out your goals and next steps. Having a plan, even a flexible one, will help you navigate this exciting transition with confidence.

Graduating is an incredible milestone, and you’ve worked so hard to get here. Take pride in your accomplishments and cherish the memories you’ve made at UW-Whitewater. Now, it’s time to spread your wings and show the world what Warhawks are made of. Good luck, graduates, you’ve got this!