My little brother graduated from college this past weekend. I talked to so many of his friends and their families about my post-grad experience, mostly the parts that surprised me—struggling for months to find a job, moving back home, my social life going quiet.

I’m three years out of college and finally able to speak with confidence about what was a very confusing and honestly dark point of my life. I wouldn’t say I have it all figured out yet, but I’m at least grateful for this much.