Understanding the “why” of your work is just as important as the performance of your duties. Finding purpose within your everyday life will ensure a sustainable career, high job satisfaction, and better achievement of work-life balance. But how do we define and find our why? In this Article, we provide six of our favorite ideas for seeking your passion and purpose at any stage of your career.

While not an official mental health diagnosis, imposter syndrome is equated to feelings of professional inadequacy and work performance related anxiety. It hampers the ability for one to feel or enjoy their own success, due to lack of confidence in their abilities - of feeling like a fraud, or an imposter, in their role. Studies have shown that first generation professionals experience imposter syndrome at higher rates, due to their often-non-traditional paths to corporate life. In this Article, we unpack some symptoms of imposter syndrome and how to overcome it.

One of the most important, yet least-discussed, concepts in your journey as a first generation professional is corporate etiquette. Often rife with unspoken traditional expectations, corporate etiquette can be difficult to absorb without prior exposure (and awkward to navigate even with assistance from mentors). In this Article, we provide a refresher on the basics of professionalism, pose updates to conventional wisdom, and generally advise on how to put your best foot forward at work.

Milwaukee has a plethora of amazing cafes, coffeeshops, and meeting spaces for any occasion. Check out this (absolutely non-exhaustive) list of our favorites, across the city. Be sure to include your favorites in the Comments below!

One of the distinguishing features of a first generation professional is the intersection of a “non-traditional” career journey with your unique personal and professional background. While it may be tempting to diminish one’s first generation status in lieu of assimilating to a new environment, consider that your identity can meaningfully impact your work and inspire those around you. By bringing your whole self to work, you will not only stay true to your values and goals, but also share your insight and leverage your point of view. In this Article, we touch on the benefits of bringing your whole identity to work as a first generation young professional.