Everyone is complaining about the lack of jobs. I work with college students and recent graduates, and the lack of local jobs that can support the cost of living in Southern California is a constant complaint. Recently out of college it's acceptable to share a room with someone, but that gets old quickly when you really want to get your life started. A lot of times, an enhanced dorm experience just isn't as much fun as you had imagined.
So you have your degree, about $25,000 in college debt (roughly the average) and you don't want to move in with your parents. What do you do?
I advise people to follow their dreams, explore your talents and strengths, and then make a move. This move might mean a physical move out of the area. If you have a good resume and interview well, but are still not getting offers of gainful employment, it may be time to seek your fortune elsewhere and return when conditions are more hospitable. According to the Orange County Workforce Indicator 2011-2012, your household needs to bring in $53,080 per year to afford a 1 bedroom rental. If that is outside of your salary range in the next few years, you might be better served building your career elsewhere.
The thought of leaving your family, friends, and beach is very frightening. I won't minimize that. But I cannot begin to tell you how many people I counsel who get "stuck" in their careers and watch their financial and living situation deteriorate because they choose not to make a move. After all, hoping for an economic turn around or that the Career Fairy will bestow the perfect job on you, after making your best efforts, is not a viable strategy. This is akin to playing the lottery, laying out your financial planning based upon winning the jackpot, and waiting for your ship to come in. Take control of your life, seek out some changes, and take a chance that can turn into something worthwhile.
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