More Memorable than a Good Bagel

I’m sitting at the end of the faux mahogany conference table. The two women on my left are trade head managers. The woman on my right… I don’t know what she does, but she looks important.


The tall skinny one on the left shuffles a few papers. One document is my resume that I printed out on high-quality paper. I hope she notices how magnificent it feels to behold. On second thought, she doesn’t look too observant. She may or may not have lipstick on her teeth.

The stubby one bends over and tells me that she has one final question for me. Bring it lady! I can take whatever else you have to throw my way. Maybe I’ll even offer you some fashion advice.

“What are your career aspirations after college?” Boom. That’s the final question? Oh it’s in the bag.

All three women are now looking at me, their hands on the table clasped in a position of gratefulness and thanks. I sit up straight in my chair and cross my right leg over my left. A cool breeze of confidence sweeps over me and I am ready to impress.

“ Ten years from now I see myself in this same seat at the head of the table. Except I’m your boss.” There is a slight pause as the women take in that answer and it finally soaks in. Brilliant, Amazing. Utterly unmatchable in intellect. I’m sure that’s what they are thinking. I stand up and firmly shake their hands. I walk out, navigating my way through the office maze perfectly.

Click. Click. Click.

That’s the sound of my closed-toe black heels on the floor.

Click. Click. Click.

That’s the sound of success

Bing.

The elevator is here and I have executed my exit brilliantly.

Crack.

That’s the sound of reality hitting my dense head at full speed.

…But alas. I’m living in a fantasy land. Truth be told, those last moments of my interview were a blur. I don’t remember what I said. It was not memorable. I did not say anything witty. I got lost on my way out and got off of the elevator 19 floors too soon…and then again 11 floors too soon. I don't even know if there is such a thing as faux mahogany! I went home and ate a bagel—a cinnamon raisin bagel with honey-nut cream cheese.

I remember that bagel more clearly than the last few moments of that interview. And it was a good bagel.

For now, as I sit here reminiscing the good times that could only be shared between a hungry girl and carbs, I will work on my answer. I don’t know exactly what my career aspirations after college are…actually that’s it. I can’t go any further with that one.

Unfortunately I did not get that internship...I forgot to send in my references--twice. They actually really liked me for the position and I messed it up after two seemingly good interviews. Reality sucks.

Wish me luck on an getting a job...