The Aftergrad Podcast

Before graduating from Claremont McKenna College with a BA in Applied Mathematics and Media Studies, I was fortunate to complete a series of internships, projects, and study abroad experiences which each introduced me to my industries of interest, including media, marketing, and photography. As the next step in my Aftergrad journey, I wanted to pursue a graduate degree. Specifically, I chose the MS in Visual and Digital Media at IE University in Madrid, Spain as my top program. The US Fulbright Program offered a generous scholarship for this program, and I applied. However, I felt a great deal of insecurity about my future plans after receiving multiple letters from various programs acknowledging my impressive qualifications yet, in the same breath, giving reasons to go in a different direction. Suddenly, I had to face the reality of not knowing which direction I would go after obtaining my diploma, and the powerlessness and disillusionment I felt as a result of this circumstance reminded me of an important life lesson: sometimes, hard work is simply not enough.

Nearing the final months of completing a double major in International Economics and Finance and East Asian Studies with a concentration in Chinese and a Minor in Art I felt accomplished. Chosen to partake in government initiatives that endorsed my explorations into East Asia regions drew aspirations in becoming a venture capitalist who actively connects people who seek investment in creative industries in East Asian region. Upon return I’m grateful for the opportunity to expound on this mission through my research, public speaking and leadership endeavors. Much of my hard work would soon be worth my wildest dreams with acceptance from being accepted by Fulbright to attend FuJen University’s Fashion Brand and Management Masters program in Taiwan. A prestigious institution I believed was the golden ticket to learn, engage and grow in pursuit of my dreams. After being informed I wasn’t selected for the opportunity, a reckless perspective was awakened. No longer did the recognition from prestige programs, internship opportunities, or any society conformity mattered. In the midst of my course shifting unexpectedly, I lost interest in doing things “accordingly” and was willing to risk it all for the sake of my dreams. Unfortunately, now I faced a path without the formalities, guidance, and financial support from an institution.

When co-founding the Aftergrad Podcast, we faced the reality of graduating having no plan in the midst of global financial, health, and mental crises. Instead of resuming our search for scholarships, internships, and corporate commitments, we quit our jobs to prioritize this project to build and dedicate ourselves to sharing our story. We grew motivated to take risks in our fields with only a vision and an unfading tenacity.

Our belief in each other encouraged our leap of faith to move to Washington, DC in order to change the pace. Our time in DC brought physical, mental, and emotional clarity on how we may continue to pursue our passions after graduation without volunteering as tribute in corporate hunger games. This risk led to the venture of podcasting as a method for creating a community of youthful and innovative students, graduates, entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders who are tired of living under the tyranny of outdated expectations surrounding work and higher ed.