As I finish the last few drops of coke after a well-cooked chicken dinner, my dad opens up the USC School Department Information pamphlet and asks me to take a look at something he wanted to show me. When I make my way around the table, I take a look and see, “School of Engineering…” as my dad says “Look at all the different types of engineering majors they offer.” To my same negative reply that I’ve been saying for the past year stating that I don’t want to major in any type of engineering, he says “Why not? It’s sure money.”

“I’m not interested in that kind of thing.”

Why is it always about the money? I understand you’re older and you know how important strong financial stability is, but I don’t. I’m young and have this ridiculous mentality that all I need is a job that I’ll be happy with and I’ll be set. I want to be able to wake up on most mornings, or every morning if possible, and say with confidence and pride that I love my job. And I want that trip to work to be nothing but dreadful.