Maybe you are like me a first-generation college student, well I was sort of a first-generation college student. I had people in my family that went to college including my father, but I was given no guidance on how to "college". After graduating college, I was one of the first in my family to work in corporate America, which was a lot different from working at the local mall or a big box retailer. Having no guidance or mentorship before and while I was in these pivotal points in my life made navigating them successfully hit or miss. This book is a guidebook for the college and career rookie. For those who have little to no guidance on what to do to be successful in key career points and how to prepare to be successful for the next phase of the education and career journey. The Struggle Is Real: From High School to Careers is a comprehensive guidebook and practical tool to help students and early career professionals on topics like • High School: college prep, how to choose a mentor, how to save time and money before going to college, and how to choose the best college for you. • Non-College: education alternatives, financial aid options, how to display your talents and skills online, and non-college career options • College: the purpose of it, the importance of student organizations, study abroad programs, and internships, interviewing tips, how to compensate for an insufficient college education, and grad school • Career: work-life balance, prioritizing and setting goals, remote work tips, severance pay, IP protections, how to calculate consulting fees, and negotiation tips • Career websites to help you maximize your time in high school, your post- secondary education, and as a career professional. • And so much more!