With your combination of academic excellence and practical experience, you’re exactly what we look for. Not many new graduates have already built a successful business from scratch. As she moved away to greet other guests, Lily’s expression registered shock.
You didn’t tell me you’d be working for Alexander Global. That’s one of the most prestigious consulting firms in the country. I smiled modestly.
It happened quickly after the competition. The salary is significant. More than dad makes, I’d guess, Lily said thoughtfully.
The celebration continued with speeches from faculty and presentations of departmental awards. I received the Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award, presented by Professor Bennett with tears. In her eyes as she recounted my journey from determined freshman to business owner and department star.
Throughout the afternoon, I introduced Grandma Eleanor to everyone who had supported me. Professors who had mentored me, classmates who had become business associates, university staff who had helped me navigate financial challenges. Each greeting included the person sharing a specific memory of how I had impressed them or contributed to the department.