Laila Hazel Embraces Faith, Resilience and New Lessons After Graduation

Image Credit: John Gilmore Jr.

Laila Hazel recently graduated from Southern University A&M College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. As she walked across the graduation stage in her cap and gown, she carried more than just the end of four years of hard work. She carried the lessons, challenges and small victories that would shape her life after college.

Hazel, like many graduates, had pictured the transition after college as a smooth jump into her dream job. Instead, she found that life beyond campus presented new challenges. These challenges also offered chances for growth and self-discovery.

“My perspective on the world changed [...] it was just small opportunities that optimized so many different things for me,” Hazel said.

Those “small opportunities” often appeared in surprising ways. They included volunteer roles that expanded her network, short-term projects that enhanced her skills and discussions with mentors that altered her perspective on the future.

As an undergraduate student, Hazel measured success by outside standards. Academic recognition, leadership titles and social validation often defined achievement. But after graduation, her understanding changed.

“Success in college was based upon people’s perspective on you,” Hazel said. “I had to realize once I got done with school that my value is based upon what effort I put in.”

This shift in mindset helped Hazel concentrate less on appearances and more on consistent personal effort. This approach has guided her through the early stages of her life after graduation.

The months after graduation came with uncertainty. Certain opportunities she hoped for did not materialize right away. Job applications went unanswered, and the timelines she once planned for herself shifted. Through it all, Hazel leaned on her faith.

“There’s going to be times where it’s discouraging [...] sometimes God’s no is not even a no. It’s just hold on for right now,” Hazel said.

Those words became a personal anchor. For Hazel, a delay was not a denial—it was a space to prepare for what was ahead.

While navigating the realities of post-grad life, Hazel maintains a clear vision for her future. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in Applied Psychology to become a certified play therapist, a specialized counseling method that uses play to help children express emotions and work through challenges.

“A year from now, I see myself applying and being admitted into my master’s program for Applied Psychology to practice play therapy,” Hazel said.

Her career goal combines her academic background in psychology with her desire to make a tangible impact on children’s mental health.

Hazel’s advice for those stepping into post-graduate life is direct and grounded in experience.

“Look up your degree and figure out what you can do with it, first, before you make any decisions. Don’t make any decisions if you don’t know the full capacity of your degree,” Hazel said.

She encourages graduates to take the time to research their field, consider all potential career pathways, and avoid rushing into commitments without a full understanding of their options.