America has entered into a new era. The Great Recession of 2007-09 completely changed the way our society approaches employment, the economy is placing an increasing emphasis on knowledge and technology, and our world is more globalized and interconnected than ever. It is undeniable: The world has changed.

Change is a good thing, but it can also be painful, and I believe that Millennials have borne the pain of these historic shifts more than any other group. Since the beginning of the Recession, the unemployment rate for young adults has been twice the national average. Total student debt in America exceeds one trillion dollars. And young people today continue to face significant challenges in obtaining meaningful employment.

Despite these obstacles, I believe young people have it within themselves to achieve success in this new era. It will require major shifts in how we approach education, what we expect from our government, and how we plan our own careers. This book is a reflection of the trends and tribulations that have made up this post-Recession era, and offers guidance on how to build meaningful and dynamic careers. It is a collection of the important conversations young people (and those who advise them) must have in order to grasp success in a new economic age. We are the future of America, and I believe the future is bright if we decide to act now.