This is the season, just past graduations, when many young people, here and elsewhere, are deciding what’s next. For high school grads a gap year, prep for college entrance, or moving into the work force are typical choices. Some have made up their minds, some are unsure, and some are still catching up on their sleep. College grads have to make choices, too. Grad school, job hunting, or maybe that trip abroad to explore and think are options, assuming college loan debt doesn’t make decamping to Mongolia an attractive choice.

One thing is clear: we working or retired adults hope all graduates become regular taxpayers as soon as possible! We also hope they combine realism with their idealism, understanding earlier rather than later that employment is not for sissies. If in a new job one is under-utilized, do not be surprised. Much worse is being pressured to perform without adequate training and supervision.   Worse yet, is being expected to cut corners, lie to customers, or damage the environment. If you cannot ask hard questions, take time to think through a deal, or confer with a trusted colleague, you may be in the wrong job. To develop a good sh*t detector is as vital to your work as developing good work habits and working relationships.

Starting a business seems to many recent grads to be the gold standard. What nascent entrepreneur hasn’t dreamed of real success, only to learn that there is some truth in the old saw:  “The best way to make a small fortune is to begin with a large one.” Yet, among some parents, family friends, and assorted “seniors” is business wisdom available for free. Better even than “Small Business for Dummies.” Don’t be shy.

I very much doubt that I’m alone in wishing careers of interest, service, and fulfillment to all recent grads. We were young once, too, and now cheering from the sidelines gives us enjoyment and hope.

Will Newman

Tiverton