This week, I was rejected from the MBA program at Northwestern University (Kellogg School of Management). Not a fatal blow, but a disappointment for sure. On one hand, it’s one dream dashed…on the other, it’s an opportunity to reassess my priorities and allocate more time to looking for my next professional opportunity. Oh, and not undertake $100k in student loan debt.
A couple days later, a wise friend told me that I am skilled, and marketable…but it is likely a matter of meeting the right hiring individual, or the perfect job fit. Essentially, don’t give up. In many ways, getting into school is the same as finding the awesome job. If you have high standards, then the stars have to align, and they only do so every blue moon.
The day after my school upset, my friend Tyler asked if I’d be interested in a job at Saks Fifth Avenue, as a sales assistant…possibly in women’s contemporary, shoes, or as the brand ambassador for Gucci accessories. From a passion and interest perspective, it could be a great opportunity. Financially, the transition could be rougher. But I’m young, right? I should take some silly chances.
One way I measure the validity of an idea is to gauge my initial gut reaction. Walking around the selling floor, I felt right at home. So much excitement is packed into a relatively small area…wearable works of art from Italy and the U.S. are meshed with great fragrances, chic trends in the form of neon dresses, and every surface is buffed to shiny perfection. I liken it to working in the eye of a hurricane. Calm and orderly, a refuge from the chaos of the world outside.
Strategically, working in shoes or accessories could be more lucrative over time. Millennials (my generation) don’t have any money. We’re riddled with college and credit card debt, trying to step out our parents’ shadow. And our professional tracks are in flux (understatement!). Soon-to-be-retirees, however…do have money. At least, they have more than we will for a while. And they like to spend it. Bags and shoes are timeless, size-independent items that induce the same emotional reaction that a new blouse does.
There are no guarantees…or signed contracts, but I’m keeping my mind and heart open to what could be my next step. Looking forward to a positive update to this post soon! 🙂
