Leaving college is supposed to feel exciting.

For many graduates, it feels overwhelming instead.

In this episode of Root to Rising, Christine Hummel sits down with recent University of Tennessee graduate Hannah Dettmann for an honest conversation about navigating life after college, overcoming self-doubt, and redefining success on your own terms.

Hannah opens up about moving away from home, learning to "fake confidence until it became real," struggling after graduation, and finding unexpected purpose in a career she never planned for. Together, Christine and Hannah discuss why comparison steals joy, how social media shapes unrealistic expectations, and why the strongest confidence comes from knowing who you are—not what you do.

You'll learn:

• Why confidence is built through action—not before it
• How to navigate uncertainty after graduation
• What "fake it until you make it" really looks like
• Why your first job doesn't define your future
• How comparison can keep you stuck
• The importance of developing a strong sense of self
• Why happiness isn't always found on the path you expected

Key Takeaways

• You don't need your life figured out at 22.

• Success is personal—not something defined by a job title.

• Comparison often distracts you from discovering what actually fulfills you.

• Authenticity creates stronger relationships than trying to impress others.

• Your career path is allowed to change as you grow.

Favorite Quote

"The second I stopped thinking about confidence and started becoming the person I wanted to be... that's when confidence showed up."

Connect with Root to Rising

If this conversation encouraged you, subscribe to Root to Rising for more conversations with women sharing honest stories about leadership, purpose, growth, and navigating life's transitions.