photo by steed media service

For most students, college graduation is a time to revel in the joy of academic achievement. But after the commencement ceremony, the family barbecue and party, many graduates have a hard time adjusting to the realities of life after college. With her new book, Embracing the Real World: The Black Woman’s Guide to Life After College, Chaz Kyser offers an essential guide for students searching for the keys to success after the tassels have been shifted.

“When I started writing this book, I thought about all of the things that I didn’t know when I graduated from college,” Kyser says. “... I didn’t understand the inner workings of the real world. I didn’t know how to manage my boss, my job or a budget. College gives you the book smarts, but you also need professional smarts to succeed.”

Embracing the Real World: ... doesn’t give students a sugarcoated depiction of life in corporate America. Kyser firmly tackles some of the hidden characteristics of the workplace environment. “A lot of students think that workplace racism and sexism [don’t] exist anymore,” she says. “It’s not as blatant as it used to be, but it’s still there. Graduates need to know the reality of their work environment.”

Kyser’s debut book, which has been praised by six college presidents, will give students and recent graduates a much needed wake-up call. “A degree doesn’t guarantee a great job,” she says. “It really [takes] hard work combined with the degree. You have to have a map and focus. You must know your goals and the steps that need to be taken to get you where you want to be.” – amir shaw

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