With young ambition, a diamond-studded resume and the proper star alignment on their side, they manage to land the perfect gig before last night’s celebratory hangover has even worn off.

Even the most grounded of individuals can’t help but feel the cold sting of jealousy when social media informs them that their classmate’s career has taken off in a matter of days.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that having one’s life figured out right after college is just flat out unnatural.

Career-oriented life is kind of like a freeway. Once someone is on it, there is no slowing down; it’s pedal to the floor and full speed ahead.

Similarly, post-college life is a lot like an on-ramp. The former student has a wide array of opportunities open to them resulting from their shiny new degree.

They have the chance to enjoy the road’s twists and turns at a comfortable pace before traffic gets too heavy.

Taking the time to explore on-ramp life looks different depending on the person. It could mean applying for internships —paid ones, if the gods are kind. It could mean teaching overseas. It could even mean going back for more school.

Whatever the case, it’s never a bad idea to take some more time to explore interests and environments.

There will always be that one person who somehow manages to skip the on-ramp entirely and rocket boost their car onto the career freeway. Although it’s tempting to envy them and their newfound success, always keep in mind: the bigger the rocket boost, the tougher the landing.

A smooth on-ramp ride makes for a smooth merge onto life’s freeway, ultimately leading to greater success and fulfillment.

Zachary Phillips can be reached at [email protected] or @ZachSPhillips on Twitter.