First job is something I dreamt of for a long time from childhood to college and here I am reflecting my campus to corporate journey so far

Almost a year back, I was sitting happily in college with not a worry in the world. Of course, there was the pressure of placements. But then everyone knew it was about to come, it was a bomb waiting to explode. And we’d already got a taste of it a year back while watching our seniors. But the major change was the one that would happen in April, when we’d get out of campus and into the wilderness.

Last of College

As college life neared its end, a mix of emotions took over. The comfort zone was fading, and corporate life loomed large, unfamiliar and honestly, a bit intimidating. Everyone kept repeating those same lines, “Enjoy these days, you won’t get them back,” and “Life after college isn’t the same, it gets dull.” Hearing that over and over? Yeah, it messed with my head.

There were moments when I genuinely started to question my choices. “Was B-School really the right move?”, “Should I have just taken a job right after graduation or gone for a Master’s instead?” That confusion, that overthinking, it was real. But like everything else in life, it passed.

And then came a moment that changed everything, Xpheno visited our campus. I registered with the placement department, cracked the interview, and just like that, I was placed. It all happened so quickly, it felt like a blur. I was thrilled, finally seeing my efforts turn into something real.

Fast forward to today, it’s been nearly five months into my first job, and life is definitely different. One of the first things that hits you? The old college motto of “75% attendance is enough” doesn’t fly anymore!

Okay, jokes aside, here’s what’s been exciting so far, and the little things I already miss.

First Job blues

In college, having a social circle was easy and natural. I was surrounded by my friends who shared similar interests, and even with packed schedules, we always found time to hang out. We’d share meals, walk to class together, and attend events where we always saw familiar faces. That comfort and connection made everything feel lighter. But after stepping into the working world, I realized that social interactions come with a different flavor. Conversations are more focused, usually tied to tasks or goals, rather than the carefree, no-agenda chats we had back in college.

When it comes to responsibility, the shift has been huge. Back then, if I stayed up late and felt too tired, I could just skip class and catch up later with a friend’s notes. That luxury doesn’t exist anymore. Now, I have to show up on time, stay alert, and take full ownership of my work. It can feel overwhelming sometimes, especially working with seniors who’ve been in the industry for 15 to 20 years. But it’s also motivating, because there’s so much to learn. Of course, there are tough days too, like chasing leads that don’t work out or dealing with the pressure of closing a deal. But every challenge is also a learning experience.

What I Miss About College Life

Yes, I definitely miss my friends. But thanks to WhatsApp and weekend plans, we still manage to stay in touch. Back in college, formal clothes were only for presentations or special events. Now, formals have become a regular part of life, especially when I have to meet customers. I do miss my jeans and t-shirts sometimes, but Fridays help bring that casual vibe back.

In college, we had a big group, and there was always someone cracking a joke or making everyone laugh. At work, the teams are smaller, and while it’s nice in its own way, I do miss the energy and fun of being around a large bunch of friends. Here, everyone waits for Friday, we call it TGIF. But back in college, honestly, every day felt like a Friday except during exams!

The Aha Moments

There has been a lot of “aha!” moments when the things that I learnt in college came true in my professional life. I was naturally exhilarated when I had my first salary, and there is no more relying on the pocket money now.

When I took my first flight, I realised how corporate travel can be. The annual event I attended was a new experience of fun, learning and self-discovery. Oh! Yes, How can I forget my first customer win. Being in a business development role I cherish meeting some of the marquee brands as prospective customers. The huge customer campuses take me by awe!

After all that hustle, I finally got habitual to this new life at my first job and I like it for now. Also, a realisation hit me that just because you’re out of college doesn’t mean the learning stops. In my first job, I am actually applying a lot of things that I learnt.

So yes I am still in the learning process and I hope to reach the heights in my career that I always dreamed of.

The first job has had many ‘aha’ and ‘heart in the mouth’ moments so far.