For better or worse, I am a millennial – one of the millions born between 1980 and the early 2000s. Having been raised by two hard-working baby boomers, I always knew that if I worked hard enough, I would go to college. My parents are from a generation where hard work paid off and college degrees lead to better jobs with higher salaries. They are part of a proud generation who wants more for their children than they ever had. Commendable goals indeed.

So, to college I went. I spent the next 6 years (4 years for my bachelors and 2 years for my doctorate) in this strange world – a reality seemingly untouched by actual reality. “Work hard,” “get good grades,” “get advice from your professors,” “network network network.” My personal favorite… “Get your degree and a great job will follow.”

I heard it all and believed it all…