<div class="text-justify">
<div align="justify">


It’s been a month since we last had academic transactions—no problem-solving, no computing building loads, and no use of complicated software. Just pure rest, mindless scrolling, and wondering what’s next.


![a fresh graduate sitting in front of a laptop, surrounded by job application platforms (like LinkedIn, Upwork, JobStreet), with a hopeful yet tired expression.png](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/anonymous02/23zGyPWxnbFG8yBCQMTv1BYDHPJf36Ktjgm88NGLCiDhHStrUw2XxFsWHzH6BerCz5MGs.png)


Graduation is happening next week, and I can already feel the weight of the word "unemployed" under my name. Each day that passes makes me more anxious about what is coming next. 

That’s why I finally decided to fix my resume. I created two versions: one for my writing and SEO career, and another for my profession as a civil engineer.

I’ve been actively using different platforms to apply for jobs, but I haven’t had much luck yet. Here’s a breakdown of where I’ve been applying:


| Platform       | Career             |
|----------------|--------------------|
| LinkedIn       | Writing and SEO    |
| OnlineJobs.ph  | Writing and SEO    |
| Upwork         | Writing and SEO    |
| JobStreet      | Civil Engineering  |
| Indeed         | Civil Engineering  |
| Facebook       | Mixed Opportunities |

I’m still holding on to the hope of getting a writing and SEO job because I genuinely enjoy it, especially the technical side. The deeper I look into it, the more curious and motivated I become. I’ve already invested almost five years in this field—mostly in writing—and I don’t want that experience to go to waste.

Right now, I’m applying my knowledge to my [own website](https://marklaurence.net/), which has become a testing ground for my [SEO experiments](https://marklaurence.net/how-to-fix-404-errors-seo/). I’m optimizing everything to reach my target audience and gain the traffic I’ve been aiming for. 

Since I still have access to my hosting until 2026, I’m using this time to decide whether to continue investing in the site or let it go if it turns into a liability.

I regret not using my website more strategically before, but I’m making up for it now. I'm treating it as a serious project—working on SEO, monitoring traffic, and focusing on ranking improvements. Fortunately, I’m already seeing better results.

Still, I haven’t given up on my civil engineering career. Although I don’t have a license yet, I’ve been applying to companies that accept non-licensed applicants. 

I’ve received a few replies and calls, but none of them gave me an offer, except for one company. They offered a job with a nearly three-year bonded contract and a low salary.

While I understand the value of experience, especially with their 9-month training program, and it is nearer to my home province, the bond length gives me a lot of pressure. 

I could accept the salary if the bond were shorter—maybe around 1.5 years—but three years seems too long without the assurance of financial growth.

I badly need a job. I don’t want to just sit at home doing nothing. I have goals and plans, and this kind of waiting period is emotionally draining. 

Another priority on my mind is the board exam—I want to become a licensed civil engineer. I’m thinking of enrolling in an online review program while working. I just hope I can manage everything.

For now, I’m still actively applying for jobs and am willing to relocate to Manila if needed. I just want to find a stable job, start exploring what life and money can offer, and eventually become successful in my own way.


</div>
</div>