I think a huge part of it is that getting a “good” job out of college has never been more competitive and more important. The idea that one works their way up from a secretarial position to executive could not be more unrealistic today. On the other hand, if you beat the competition (your peers) to get a reputable corporate gig at a big co, well known startup, or prestigious consulting or banking you’re setting yourself up for life. Not getting one of those jobs out of college makes it near impossible to be hired at those companies even a year or two down the road simply because many of those companies source all their entry level people from colleges and past interns.
Your trajectory is just so different depending on your first job and I think everyone is acutely aware but no one wants to talk about it.
Your trajectory is just so different depending on your first job and I think everyone is acutely aware but no one wants to talk about it.