Chapter 1: The Shift from School to Work

During our time in high school and college, the educators and adults surrounding us are typically invested in our achievements. This investment stems from a few key factors:

• Adults who choose educational roles often find fulfillment in witnessing the success of their students.
• In academic environments, teachers and professors have a vested interest in their students' success; a student's achievements reflect positively on them, while failures can tarnish their reputation.
• Generally, adults do not view students as competitors.

Now that I've spent two years away from my undergraduate studies, I've begun to understand the often negative demeanor of many adults outside the educational environment. For instance, retail managers who disregarded my time and young restaurant supervisors who failed to recognize the intelligence and potential of their college-aged staff all fit into a similar pattern: they simply weren't concerned about my success. In fact, my ambition and intellect may have been seen as a threat to them.

This realization might seem clear to some, but as an optimistic and forgiving individual, I was initially unaware that many adults outside of education might not prioritize my growth or improvement. In school, I felt valued; my teachers and professors treated me as if I mattered.

For example, my band director was invested in my trumpet skills because they enhanced the overall performance of the band, which in turn reflected well on him. Similarly, my AP language teacher encouraged my writing efforts because a high score on the exam would bolster her reputation. My college professor mentor was also eager for me to secure a job post-graduation for similar reasons.

While this perspective may seem somewhat cynical, I don’t intend it to be negative. We shared a mutually beneficial dynamic, and their commitment to my success helped elevate us both. This leads me to wonder: why doesn't this kind of relationship extend into our post-graduate lives? Why do many managers appear indifferent to the difference between diligent and underperforming employees?

Photo by Krakenimages on Unsplash

Chapter 2: Finding Genuine Mentorship

It's overly simplistic to claim that genuine mentors are absent in the professional world. There are indeed many remarkable mentors available for adults in various careers. I was fortunate to discover an exceptional mentor at my school who continues to support my endeavors, whether they involve moving on from our institution or pursuing teaching more broadly.

However, not every authority figure exemplifies mentorship. For example, the principal instilled apprehension in me, making it daunting to request a recommendation due to fears of unwarranted repercussions. A leader who induces fear is not fulfilling the role of a mentor; such a person is primarily concerned with their own interests. It took losing my job to understand that I cannot live in fear of such individuals. I need to advocate for myself, regardless of the consequences.

Along my journey, I have encountered managers who belittled my ambition, but I refuse to feel guilty about my aspirations. I will remain driven until the end of my life, and I will no longer let anyone obstruct my path.

I'm not living my life for my employer. If I choose to move on, I will do so without hesitation.

Thank you for taking the time to read this! If you found this piece insightful, please consider following for more.

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