By Emily Newton, Intern
Watching “The Devil Wears Prada” as a kid quite literally changed my life. Visions of my own Fortune 500 company replaced my dream of becoming a princess. One day I would be a CEO, holding meetings in my city-view office, with my “world’s best boss” mug in my hands.
I have dedicated my life to fulfilling that dream. I worked hard in school, pursued countless extracurriculars and fell in love with PR along the way. I dreamt of success for so long, I could nearly taste it.
However, the stress of a post-grad career consumed me throughout my last term at the University of Oregon. Graduation was nearing, and I had no clue where to go from there. I was set to work full-time as a barista while I continued my job search. Then, something amazing happened. Hoffman gave me a chance. Tech jargon and media lists replaced espresso shots and pastry cases in what felt like overnight.
My first day at Hoffman felt like the first day of the rest of my life. I was so nervous, excited and impatient to embark on this journey. I woke up at 6 a.m., poured the perfect cup of cold brew and donned my most professional blazer. I made sure everything was perfect.
I soon after realized I was putting way too much pressure on myself. Throughout my first few weeks at Hoffman, it became clear that I could relax. Everyone’s welcoming demeanor erased all notions of what I thought working at an agency would mean. I quickly learned that at Hoffman, you don’t have to pretend to be someone that you’re not.
I never pictured myself working remotely, let alone enjoying it. I was nervous about what a remote workplace would mean for me. I thrive in routine and feel accomplished coming home after a long day. Besides, how could I create the office of my dreams … in my bedroom?
One purchase of a pink, strawberry-themed mousepad later, I was ready to change my mindset. Working from home allows me to foster my career while also taking care of myself. I can feel accomplished while still maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring my dog, Newt, gets ample exercise and attention.
While it’s easy to get scared about post-grad life, you need to trust that there is space in this industry for you. It might feel tempting to spend hours fueled by jealousy on LinkedIn, but this chapter of your life is your own, and what you decide to do with it is also yours. Pursue the organization that’s going to remind you that you’re a person, not some cog in a machine.
I have a long way to go before my city-view office is a reality. Yet, I am closer now than I have ever been, and that’s super exciting. As my time with The Hoffman Agency continues, I look forward to becoming the professional I have always dreamt of being.
