THE UNEXPECTED FREEDOM OF BEING A CORPORATE DROPOUT

Graduation is a thrilling time filled with anticipation and a touch of anxiety. Everyone around you seems to have their next steps figured out, landing jobs and beginning their careers. Meanwhile, you might find yourself wondering, "What’s next for me?" That was my reality, too, but I was fortunate enough to secure an internship right after graduation. It felt like a stepping stone to something bigger, but deep down, I sensed it wasn’t the right fit for me.

As I navigated my internship, I quickly realized that growth opportunities were limited, so I began applying for entry-level positions elsewhere. It was a wild juggling act—interviews and networking calls during my internship days, all while trying to balance the nerves of being a newcomer. In retrospect, I might have been a bit too selective for someone just starting out, but I felt it was my prerogative as an intern.

Eventually, I landed an interview that felt almost perfect: decent salary, great benefits, and a small team. Friends and family encouraged me to accept the offer, even though I wasn't completely sold on the company. Driven by the urgency to secure a “real” job and escape the uncertainty of my internship, I jumped in without pausing to listen to my instincts.

Looking back, I wish I had trusted that gut feeling. The moment I stepped into my first post-grad role, it became clear that the reality didn’t align with my expectations. I felt undervalued and overwhelmed. While this isn’t a rant against corporate America, it serves as a gentle nudge to anyone on the job hunt: remember, you have the right to interview your interviewers.

Some red flags I ignored were subtle yet significant, like when my potential boss mentioned, “We’ve been trying to fill this role for a while.” That’s a cue to ask why—what’s the turnover like? If you catch someone bad-mouthing another team during your interview, take that as a sign that company culture might not be as strong as it should be. And if your job begins to take a toll on your mental health, it’s time to reassess.

For me, this particular job amplified my insecurities. I felt as though my creative ideas were being stifled. When I tried to express my discomfort, it only escalated into more significant issues. I was told my ideas had a time and a place, and I began to realize that I craved an environment that supported my creativity, rather than suppressing it.

So, after just two weeks—yes, two weeks—I made the decision to quit. It wasn’t an easy choice; I had already shared my news on LinkedIn and told my friends about my new role. But I knew I needed to prioritize my well-being. Thankfully, my family encouraged me to take that leap of faith.

Leaving corporate life behind was liberating. I embraced the title of "corporate dropout" with pride. I learned that my path might look different from others, and that’s perfectly okay. The experience taught me that I thrive in environments that encourage creativity, support, and growth.

So, to anyone feeling the pressure of the corporate world: remember that it’s your career journey. Trust your instincts, advocate for yourself, and know that sometimes, stepping away from the traditional path leads to the most rewarding experiences.