"Develop a point of view. Think about what experiences you have that many others do not. Then, think of what experiences you have that almost everyone else has. Then, mix those two things and try to make someone cry or laugh or feel understood."

I got the job. They said that it was the best interview they'd ever seen, and complimented me on my passion, wildly respected my experience, and were eager for September to arrive. Me too...but not too soon.

I've never sweated something so deeply in all of my life. Never. The only way I managed to set aside the anxiety was to remind myself of the above. It was my mantra. I repeated it over and over again in my head even as I answered their questions.

Strange how I just noticed that I was breathing again.