“Thank you for taking the time to chat with me about your career. I learned so much about mental health and youth, and will be sure to check out the latest set of insights and leads you shared with me. I am so appreciative of your generosity with your time and resources. It is evident and clear that you always knew you wanted to be a clinical therapist.”

That email showed up after informational interview I had with a young man. Emails are great; but, I repeat, a real thank you note is better (that’s why you ask for a business card). What struck me about the email was the last sentence. Yes, I always knew that I wanted to help young adults find their voice, but I did not sign up for grad school with the idea that I would become a clinical social worker. When I got…