Before Graduation

News flash: You’ll soon be graduating!

There are exciting times ahead of looking for a job, finding your roots, and figuring out your life. You should enjoy the ride.

But, before you put on that cap and gown and say farewell to your professors and friends, there are some movies you should watch.

These movies will help you think back on your college years with fondness and reflect on the beautiful moments you’ve experienced.

We’ve listed seven movies to see before graduation and trust us — these films are worth watching.

Are you wondering how watching these films can prepare you to spread your wings?

Let’s dig deep and uncover the practical life lessons in these incredible films.

Check out these can’t-live-without movies that will bring you one step closer to living your dreams.

1. The Graduate

Are you about to graduate? If you are, then The Graduate is an appropriate movie to watch, and not just because of its name.

This movie is a must-see for students and movie lovers. It’s about a student who recently graduated from college and struggles to figure out what he wants to do with his life. After graduation, he goes home and has an affair with Mrs. Robinson.

In the 1960s, there were many cultural shifts, and many college students found freedom due to progressive times. The Graduate did an excellent job at encompassing themes that were pivotal for young people at that time, and they are still relatable now.

Like the film, post-graduation students will continue to grow and evolve into who they want to be and discover what matters most.

Watch this film, and you’ll finally understand the Graduate quotes and references your parents (and perhaps friends) make.

2. Into the Wild

Based on a true story, Into the Wild depicts the life of Christopher McCandless.

The film was adapted from author Jon Krakauer’s book, Into the Wild, about McCandless’ life.

The movie is about a 20-year-old college graduate who drove west and traveled north into the Alaskan wilderness. He was unprepared for the immensity of the nature.

The film is perfect for graduates because they can follow suit by discovering what is authentic. Chris desired to learn and grow, and he did that by tackling something that would challenge him. You, too, can do the same.

After graduation, go on grand adventures and learn more about yourself along the way.

Chris went on a journey of self-discovery. His adventurous spirit was one to admire.

3. The Social Network

Almost everyone uses Facebook these days, so why not watch the film that inspired the founding of this social media powerhouse?

If you want to see the true story of how Mark Zuckerberg created Facebook in his Harvard dorm room, check out The Social Network.

Watch this movie because it’s a fantastic film that addresses many issues college students still face today.

Plus, it’s a very inspiring film considering Mark Zuckerberg now runs this multi-billion dollar company.

In 2016, Pew Research Center released a poll that revealed that up to 62% of Americans get their news from social media. Since that poll was from 2016, that percentage probably has increased by now!

Creating something new or starting your own tech company in the future can become a reality! See The Social Network and remind yourself that anything is possible.

4. Pitch Perfect

Even if you’re not a music major, you can still appreciate the movie Pitch Perfect.

Its humor and harmonious tunes make it impossible not to root for the main characters.

College students should be required to watched Pitch Perfect because the movie is about more than just going to college. It’s about making lasting relationships, never giving up, and having plenty of fun before going out into the real world.

What’s stopping you from living life to the fullest while making quality friendships along the way?

5. Slumdog Millionaire

If you haven’t watched the movie Slumdog Millionaire, you must be living under a rock.

For those who have seen it, they probably understand why every college student should see it.

This fantastic film offers a powerful reminder that we don’t know everything about a person or what they’ve experienced in the past.

As students venture out into the real world, they should always approach people and new relationships with an open mind. Don’t assume to know someone when you haven’t been in their shoes.

In today’s society, people seek to make positive changes by fighting stigmas and promoting causes they care about, and you can do the same.

6. Monsters University

You might wonder how an animated Pixar movie made it on our list. Trust us; there’s a reason why we recommend watching Monsters University.

The film flashes back to when Mike and Sulley (from Monsters, Inc.) met in college while they were training to become professional scarers.

In Monsters University, the college society is rough on both characters and threatens to pull them apart.

Eventually, they get kicked out of MU’s Scare Program but decide to make it right by learning to work with a crew of misfit monsters.

Even if you aren’t a monster, this film is an excellent reminder to try to get along with everyone.

There are many kinds of people in the world, and when you land a job, you will work with various co-workers. Learn how to work together so you all can succeed at your job.

7. Real Genius

Even though Real Genius came out in 1985, we recommend watching it.

This excellent movie is about a high school student recruited by a well-known professor to work on a significant research project.

The high schooler becomes friends with a college senior who’s a real genius. However, the genius is lacking in his studies.

Eventually, they become friends who work together to stop their no-good professor from using their project as a weapon.

This movie is another fantastic example of how everyone should work together as a team before and after college graduation.

The point is always to appreciate how powerful it is to lean on co-workers and friends after graduation. Never stop transforming into an individual who can make a difference.



As you begin a new adventure after graduating and want to think back on your student years, permit yourself to take a break every once in a while. Pull back a chair and relax while watching these coming of age films.

These must-see movies are not only fantastic to watch before graduation but can continue to inspire you past graduation as well.

Stay entertained and look forward to a bright and inspiring future — you can thrive and survive as a successful adult.