I struggled coming up with a graduation column. It wasn’t that my own experience was particularly bad. More like it didn’t lend itself to any funny stories that I can share.
So, I did the cliche thing. I crowdsourced advice from my friends. And this is the list we came up with. Now, take it with a grain of salt -- this advice does come from burnt-out millennials. Some may be funny. Some serious. Some… possibly unhinged? Everyone is different and on a different path, so do with this list what you will.
In no particular order, advice for the graduates of 2026.
1. Don’t move in with that person you started dating two weeks ago. In fact, don’t sign a lease with anyone unless you’re sure, and even then, get a second opinion. It’s easier to be cautious than to get out of a lease with someone who turns out to be horrible. (Also applies to roommates.)
2. Stay on your parents’ health insurance as long as possible.
3. Try everything/most things at least once. You never know what you might learn about yourself.
4. Don’t forget to charge your electronics.
5. Everyone needs to go on a road trip with their friends at least once.
6. Never lose your whimsy. Life is too dark without it. Wear that silly t-shirt. Frolick in a field. Go ghost-hunting (if that’s your thing). Just stay whimsical. You’ll thank us later.
7. In some situations, the best thing to do is to keep your mouth shut and your opinions to yourself. You may learn something. You may make a friend. Put those judgments aside for a minute and keep an open mind.
8. Sure, life is death and taxes, but you can make it fun.
9. STAY AWAY FROM CREDIT CARDS! 10. If the opportunity comes up to work or live abroad, jump in with both feet. You will learn so much about yourself, the world, and others when you experience another country, culture, language and more. You won’t regret it.
11. Even if you’re angry or hangry or tired, be kind. There’s enough harshness in the world right now, and sometimes, people just need a little smile or kind word to turn their day around.
12. Learn how to be happy and content on your own. Sure, it may not stop your heart from being broken, but at least you’ll know that whatever happens, you can and will come out of it just fine. Also, there is a difference between being alone and lonely.
13. Don’t be a martyr for your mental health. Ask for help.
14. If there’s free food, take it. 15. Learn how to do everything on your own. Laundry. Cleaning. Cooking. Finances. Taxes. Taking care of your car. Savings. Ask for help learning these things, or at the very least, apply to YouTube University.
16. Never stop reading. Books are there to help you learn. Also, to escape when needed. (Trust us -- it’s needed.)
17. Never stop learning or asking questions. The world is a big place. We’ll never learn everything there is to know. Be curious. Be open to knowledge and change.
18. Find your people -- whoever they may be -- and never let them go.The ones who never make you feel like a burden. Who will be your cheerleaders and give you a swift kick to the butt when needed. They will get you through those hard times and make the good so much sweeter. They will tell you the hard truths and then hug you after. They are invaluable. Never take them for granted and never push them away. (Or, well, you may try, but they will claw their way back in regardless.)