We’ve all had those jobs that make us feel less than stellar. You work a part-time job, flip burgers, and fold t-shirts and for what? A big discount? Free food? A lowered respect for mankind? Whatever it may be, keep in mind these seemingly dead-end jobs are what will lead up to your first, Big Boy Job. It’s best to leave the most positive impression possible. By “Big Boy” job I mean a job that you actually feel like you are doing something with your life. You go into work excited, eager to begin the day. Except for Mondays, well heck, maybe even on Mondays if you really love your job! Anything could define your “Big Boy” job. We all have different ideas, values, and goals. Perhaps your goal is to one day be the man at your local burger joint that is known for producing the finest patties in the city. Maybe you want to be known for your impact on the community, maybe you want to be the best George W. Bush impersonator. All are important, extraordinary, and all your own to experience. No one should step in your way of accomplishing your goals and pursuing happiness.

For some of us, myself included, we find joy in learning new things and simply doing. Working two jobs, attending college full-time, and interning probably isn’t ideal for most. However, it may be that apparent ambition, ability to multitask and handle stress that become what lands that first Big Boy job. As a student, one should never be afraid of failure. Take them as learning opportunities. Failures allow you to learn what not to do. Welcoming failure will allow you to grow as an individual and mature as a young adult. You learn to not be disappointed but to be optimistic. It is highly unlikely that you will be the next Bill Gates at age 18 right out of high school. He surely made a few mistakes in his lifetime, but holding yourself to unrealistic standards will only lead to disappointment.

I have set standards for myself that I believe are attainable. Taking full advantage of a failure is something I have come accustom to. I learned from each experience and applied everything I learned to my current position. Beginning my journey at KeyMedia Solutions is pretty exciting! Advertising and marketing are two things that really intrigue me, and I appreciate the diversity that comes with the job. I may only be the “intern,” for now. However, only time can tell what or who I will grow into. Who knows, maybe they’ll keep me around after April! We shall see.