My First Mentor

The hustle and bustle of New York City quieted as my parents and I drove through New Jersey back home after my summer internship.

We decided to stop at my grandfather’s cemetery, as it was only a few miles from the route. As I entered the cemetery, images of that rainy March day when we laid him to rest flashed through my mind. How, as the oldest of my siblings, I tried to be so strong. How to this day, when I hear Frank Sinatra I smile to think of us dancing at a faded family gathering.

I sat on the grass of his grave. Holding back my tears, I said to him, “I hope you are proud.”

My grandfather was a distinguished man: a war veteran, shipyard mechanic, electrical engineer and college professor. He was the epitome of the “Greatest Generation.” He was also my first mentor.

There is one lesson my grandfather taught me: Work hard and have a kind heart.

And even as a member of the Greatest Generation, my grandfather’s advice is even more necessary. Working hard, and most importantly, working smart is crucial for career advancement for Gen Y.

Having a kind heart simply involves being a nice person. Living life simply. Living life with a bigger purpose. Helping others, while caring for yourself.

Coming from the city full of busy, successful people, I was always looking for a mentor and luckily found one at my job. But lying on the grass of my grandfather’s grave, I realized that sometimes the greatest mentors aren’t at a job, in a classroom or on the blogosphere. Sometimes the greatest life lessons and values can come from someone who made an impact on us a long time ago.

My only hope is I can live up to his mantra, even when I find myself faltering as a twenty-something navigating through life.

-Carla