As my graduation grows closer, I grow curious about what life will look like after college.

Cleveland State University sends over a thousand graduates out into the world each year, so I decided to reach out to alumni to see what they're up to.

Lauren Hopkins

For Lauren Hopkins, a 2019 psychology, sociology and criminal justice graduate, the road to a meaningful career was anything but straightforward. Now a child protection specialist in Cuyahoga County Children Services’ sex abuse department, Hopkins credits her capabilities to Cleveland State.
 

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After earning her degree, Hopkins admits she didn’t have a clear plan for her future.

 “I worked as a nanny and at a group home with adults with disabilities while applying for jobs on Indeed,” she said. “Nothing seemed to work out at first.”

Her turning point came when she interviewed for her current role, encouraged by friends and family who recognized her natural ability to connect with children. 

“I was offered other jobs, but none sparked my interest like this one,” Hopkins said. 

Entering a demanding field like this one brought about challenges such as mental health, social issues faced by the children, and time management.

“Learning why people behave the way they do, especially concerning mental health has helped me in my career,” Hopkins explained. “And time management, something I honed at CSU, has been crucial with the deadlines I face.”

Although the university tries to prepare students with the best of their abilities, sometimes it falls short. Hopkins explained she really learned valuable skills through hands-on work.

“I don’t think the university fully prepared me for the real-world challenges in my field,” Hopkins said. “Most of what I’ve learned has come from on-the-job experiences and guidance from my co-workers.”

Hopkins reflected on how her perspective on life and work has evolved. 

“My career has shown me the struggles people face. Mental health issues, poverty and a lack of proper support,” she said. “Working with kids in inner cities has been eye-opening. It’s hard knowing they deserve so much more than what they’re getting.”

For current students and soon to be graduates, Hopkins offered this advice:  “It’s okay not to know what you want to do or to change your mind. Your first job doesn’t have to define the rest of your career.”

Hopkins journey may have been unconventional, but life is unconventional. You may try and fail but your journey doesn't define your future and success. 

Alexis Figlar

Alexis Figlar was a 2023 journalism and promotional communications graduate. She found passion for her career by her persistence and love of the music industry. 
 

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Credit: Alexis Figlar | Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. 

Figlar started with a temporary marketing position at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in May 2023, but when that role ended five months later in early November, she found herself back at an insurance office which she knew wasn’t her true calling.

“It was tough,” Figlar recalled. “I ended up going back to the insurance office where I used to work, and it wasn’t where I wanted to be.”

Determined to find her place in the creative world, Figlar landed a marketing coordinator position at Beachland Ballroom, a Cleveland music venue. 

Still unsettled with her career, Figlar decided to reapply to the Rock Hall and ultimately was successful in her endeavors.

“I decided to reapply and was hired as a Community and Live Events Assistant,” Figlar said. “It was another temporary position, but it gave me some incredible opportunities to grow and learn.”

The defining moment that helped Figlar’s decision to stay connected to the Rock Hall was several months after leaving her initial role there, when her former internship manager invited her to a concert.

“I was hesitant to go because hanging out with a former boss isn’t something most people are eager to do,” Figlar admitted. “But that night reminded me of how much I loved working at the Rock Hall and how much I had learned from her.”

After gaining more experience and building her network, Figlar applied for a role on the eCommerce team. This would become her first full-time role in her field.

“They re-hired me on the spot, it felt like coming home,” Figlar said “When I got the job, it felt like all the hard work and setbacks were worth it.”

Like many recent graduates, Figlar faced significant hurdles in the job market.

“It was surprisingly hard for me to find a job,” she said. “I knew I had the skills, but rejection after rejection made me doubt myself. I’ve learned not to take it personally there are so many factors at play.”

Looking back, she wishes she had taken more time during her college years to explore internships and campus activities.

“I graduated a year early, and I rushed through college,” Figlar said. “I wish I had slowed down to take full advantage of the resources available to me. Internships, networking and student organizations are so valuable.”

Figlar also offered invaluable advice for CSU students and upcoming graduates. 

“Do work you’re passionate about,” she said. “Authentic work is more fun and rewarding and it makes all the hard work feel worth it.”

She also emphasized the importance of resilience.

“Never let the 'no’s' discourage you,” Figlar said. “Every 'no' brings you closer to your 'yes.'”

Hopkins and Figlar represent two distinct yet equally inspiring journeys of Cleveland State University alumni navigating life after graduation. Hopkins, with her dedication to protecting vulnerable children, and Figlar, with her unwavering passion for the music industry, show that there is no single path to success.

Their advice to current and future graduates resonates with a universal truth, success is not always linear. 

For those about to embark on their own post-graduation journeys, Hopkins and Figlar offer reassurance that it’s okay to take time, face setbacks and pivot when necessary. Ultimately, it’s these experiences that shape not just careers but fulfilling lives.

I leave you with this, good luck on your journey after graduation, stay passionate and persistent and always, Go Vikings!