First of all, I’m on your side. This time last year I was about to graduate in a few weeks and had no clue what I was going to do for a job. Ron Burgundy put it best when he cried out, “I’m in a glass case of emotion!” I was in a glass case indeed. And when Thanksgiving came around I thought, “What the heck do I have to be thankful for!? I’m over $20,000 in student-loan debt and have zero jobs lined up! How am I going to survive?”

So, to keep you positive during this time when the word “thankful” makes your left eye twitch, I’ve come up with a few things you should focus on.

You’re Not In This Alone

Almost more than half of your graduating class is in the same position you are—jobless. Of course there are a few lucky students and some overachievers (who can study for their finals, apply for jobs, volunteer and still have a 4.0) that do have a great first job lined up. Talk to them and get some advice and tips. Also form a support group with other students who are struggling to find jobs. Meet once a week and share stories and vent frustrations. Knowing that other people are going through the same frustrations as you are will make you feel much better.

Unemployment is What You Make It

We’ve all heard the sad stories of older friends who wished they could go back in time and pursue their passion. Think about something you’ve always wanted to do but never had the time because you were too busy studying or working on school projects. Now is your opportunity to visit some ideas that were forced on the backburner. Draw up a business plan, start a blog, build your online presence, chase your dream--the possibilities are endless! You may end up starting your own business and be a young entrepreneur. The point is, try and keep yourself occupied. Your focus will become positive rather than negative.

You Can Go Anywhere, You Can Do Anything

Graduation means a new chapter is about to start in your life. Now is your chance to take advantage of the blank pages that lie ahead of you. Always wanted to live in San Francisco? GO! If you can’t find your “ideal job” work a few odd jobs. Don’t focus on the pay, the benefits and the luxury. Your first job isn’t going to pay off your student loans immediately anyway. Your reward is going be the experience you have. The corporate fancy job will always be there---I promise. Wouldn’t you rather fill those blank pages with awesome stories and cherished memories to share with the grandkids one day? We have our whole lives for a meaningful, successful career. Don’t be afraid to play for a few more years and sew your traveling oats.

O.K. so that’s my advice. I hope it wasn’t too cheesy because I know right now that’s the last thing you want to hear. Unemployment stinks. The hard work that we put in college almost seems like a waste. But the hard work that we put into ourselves is what counts. Be ambitious, don’t be afraid, and act your age. The perfect job will come one day but until then don’t wait for opportunity to fall in your lap. Find opportunity and conquer it on your own.