Q. I just graduated from school. Now what?

A. Congratulations on graduation!

Graduation can be bittersweet. On one hand, it represents the end of great times, friendships, and a time you will never be able to get back. On the other hand, it represents the beginning of your future, a fresh start and endless possibilities for a bright future.

Some see this as a choice of which to celebrate, but the truth of the matter is that the choice is already made — you must move forward.

Your past is a part of you, your experience and who you will become. Do not become the person whose glory days are all in the past, but become the person who keeps creating glory days.

As one bright student at Paul D. Camp Community College recently said, don’t let your time in school be the best days of your life. You have so much to offer and to look forward to, but here are a few pieces of wisdom to get you moving in the right direction.

First, let’s explore your dreams and then set a realistic goal. Figure out what you want to do.

You may find one of the shows I did on my television program helpful. Go to my YouTube Channel and search “It’s Life Changing with Dr. Carletta Perry.” Then look for the episode titled “Workforce, College or Military.”

Second, let’s develop a plan. Once you decide the direction you want to go in life, start doing some research. For example, if you want to go to college, attend an open house at the college to learn more about degree programs and financial aid, or call and speak to the college admissions office for further guidance on how to get started.

If you are looking at going straight to work, let’s get your resume created or revised to reflect your experience. You may benefit from working with a career coach at a local community college or a professional career coach in the community that can help you create a professional image.

If you are interested in the military, start by speaking to a recruiter who can share with you all the benefits of a life in the military.

No matter what you choose, the last step is to take action. You are ready. As the Nike ads say, just do it!

You have everything you need to be great, so go do great things.

Dr. Carletta N. Perry is a professor of psychology, a therapeutic life coach and relationship expert, as well as author, radio and television host and entrepreneur. Catch her new television show, “It’s Life Changing with Dr. Carletta Perry,” Sundays at 7 p.m. on Charter channel 191 and on YouTube. Email your own questions for her to contact@drcarlettaperry.com.