10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Graduated

Congratulations to all of the 2009 graduates! I'm so excited for everything that's coming your way. Though it was over 2 years ago that I put on my cap and gown, I remember it like yesterday. I was so optimistic about life as a young professional, and everything that comes with it. Well, it turns out, I didn't quite have a clue what was coming to me. The 2 years since graduation have been a firestorm of ups, downs, and all arounds. There are lots of things I wish I knew when I crossed that stage to grab my diploma that I had to learn the hard way.  So in typical Simmons College style, I have compiled an organized list of the 10 things I wish I knew when I graduated:

1.      Chances are, at some point you will hate your first job. Due to your low level in the workplace, you will sometimes be forced to do completely boring tasks like un-jamming the fax machine. Unfortunately, you have to do these things if you ever want to work your way up in the professional world. At least it will be a funny story when you become CEO.

2.      Do not argue with your boss. While it is absolutely fine to ask questions, be aware that you will not win a fight with the person who cuts you a paycheck. They will always come out on top, and you may come out unemployed.

3.      You money will disappear even faster than it did in college. While it is important to build credit, do not destroy it by camping out in the handbag department at Barney's after work every day.

4.   There is absolutely nothing wrong with being in your mid-twenties and still incredibly emotionally reliant on your parents. They have been through this struggle, and their support can mean the world in times of need. 

5.   As an undergrad, showing up to class after pulling all nighters is fine. However, showing up to work looking like a disheveled street person is not. Run a comb through that hair. Professionalism is considered to be a big deal, even if you don't think so. 

6.   It is definitely possible that you will be laid off/fired/quit your job unexpectedly. It will feel like the end of the world, and you will consider jumping off the Zakim Bridge. Don't. In a short time you will realize that everything happens for a reason, and blessings are often disguised.  

7.  Gossip can be dangerous in the workplace. Don't talk about your coworkers, because chances are there are eager little ears listening a few cubicles over who would love to get ahead.

8.   Do not, under any circumstance, cry in front of your boss. If you do, you will be forever labeled as "the girl who cries." Your superiors will feel awkward correcting you, in fear that you might break out in tears. Stifle your feelings for a few seconds, and ask to be excused. Bathroom stalls are the perfect venue to let out your anxieties. 

9.  Don't spend your work day cruising the internet. While it may be more exciting than that Excel spreadsheet, there's really no excuse when your computer freezes on a Craigslist ad that reads "Run away with the Big Apple Circus."  Trust me on that one.

10. There is no price that can be put on the confidence you earn after overcoming these personal and professional struggles. No matter how tumultuous your early post-grad years may be, it is always worth the journey.