Post Grad: Five Women and Their First Year Out of College Hardcover – April 11, 2017

I was drawn to read this book from a review in the Wall Street Journal and being a parent of a daughter the same age and circumstance as these women. I was disappointed by the lack of depth and insight in several of these young women transitioning into adulthood - or the 'real world.' I thought I'd pass this book along to my same-age daughter to reassure her that her experiences are shared. But they aren't. She has had to struggle with managing her own expenses from rent that eats considerably into her paycheck, to the loneliness of trying to create a new social circle, to becoming a bit more 'street-smart' to ensure her safety living in a large East Coast city, to truly searching what is her role in the world - how can she make a difference. I was so disappointed in the constant introducing of 'polyamorous' relationships - this is a 'big word' for 'playing the field.' There are so many larger issues to occupy these young women's minds and fuel their growth! The character, Denise, intrigued me as did the author - they were trying to 'grow up' or grow into the new phase of their life. I wish I heard more about Denise's thoughts and reflections - but she was probably so busy her input to the author may have been more limited that the other women. I was hoping I'd read how these young women used this post-grad year as a time to explore and reflect on their place in our world, our communities. We need our young people to go out, make a difference, have an impact, not be trying to make ends meet by escorting older, well- to- do men who pay for companionship or being the #3 or 4 partner in a 'polyamorous' relationship. Find your place by reaching out to your new community in the 'real world': join a synagogue, church, Big Brother/Big Sister, a food bank, tutor at an elementary school or the after school program at the Y or an adult education GED program. Think beyond yourself and your needs. Because Lord knows, there is so much good that needs to be done within each of our own communities. Reach beyond yourself! There are so many opportunities to grow and to make a difference.

Such a wonderful book-- I would highly recommend!! Although I am a few years out of college, I can absolutely remember that first year after I graduated. Suddenly, I found myself in a new space, making my own decisions, living on my own. Of course, happy to graduate from college and have a job and be out in the world, but still definitely confused as to what I wanted and who I was trying to become. I was also very lonely, much like the author.Reading this book put me back in that place-- allowing me to follow each of these women's stories, as they made mistakes, were lost and confused-- and reminded me that we all are on this journey together, just trying to figure it out, no matter the age.I especially loved how different each of the women are. Each very unique and special in her own way, for sure. Can't wait to read more from this young writer!

Life is difficult to navigate during any transition, especially the first year after of college. There are no "first year out" blueprints or post-collegiate scripts to follow. Although this liminal time is, for many, a season of opportunity and excitement- it is also chock full of uncertainty and anxiety. Vocational discernment, shifting family dynamics, changing friendships, intimate relationships, and establishing new systems of support can be daunting. Surprisingly, few books speak to this pivotal season of life. Fortunately, author Caroline Kitchener recognized this gap, and with stunning clarity and abundant empathy, shares the stories of real young women who make their way post-university life. As a higher education professional mentoring students for over 18 years, I found Kitchener's writing refreshingly honest and thoughtfully crafted. I highly recommend this book for not only university students and recent graduates, but anyone who cares about "emerging adults" and their continued journey of self discovery.

As a recent college graduate, this book really helped me to understand that I am not alone when it comes to my feelings of uncertainties and not finding my dream job right out of college. But, at times I felt like this was written for only graduates of ivy leagues. All five characters graduated from Princeton and the constant pressure that is put on graduates from elite schools is constantly described. Even though I didn't attend an ivy, I too feel constant pressure to have a great job and I am always comparing myself to my peers. I think this book would have been 5 stars for me if there had been characters from state schools and ivy leagues.

I had the pleasure of attending a book club meeting with the author herself. This is a collection of experiences I needed to hear and grateful to use a resource in my year post grad. I would say, these stories told felt told as if they were unique to the ivy-league experience, but I feel every woman goes through these experiences and challenges after graduation regardless of their university. Although not all characters depicted verge at the same challenges, I feel that any woman post-grad can find theme selves writhing these women’s stories.

I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Loved the idea of following 5 women in their first year out of college to see where life was taking them. It may have been even of more intereste being that these were high-achieving Princeton grads. It was both personal and a kind of sociological look at some diverse women, their backgrounds, struggles and identity. My only complaint was that the book had to end after that first year. I would loved to have known more and followed them for an additional year. A great read and I applaud the writer and the other four women who chose to participate and to share their life experiences post grad.