They Don’t Teach Corporate in College

Introduction

After I graduated from college, I was hell-bent on moving to New York City. I believed in the saying, “If you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere.” I was the type of kid who studied hard and got As in school, and I didn’t think I’d have any trouble skipping up the corporate ladder in one of the most intimidating cities in the world. When I landed a job in a top public relations firm despite zero relevant experience, I thought the toughest part was over. I dumped my extra resumes in a recycling bin and eagerly awaited a paycheck that would scarcely cover my rent. I looked forward to worldly business trips, stimulating office brainstorms, and hanging out with my coworkers every Friday at happy hour.

Three years later, ...