She Strengthens

Breaking Down Barriers: Unpacking the Unspoken Realities of Low-Income Professionals

As a low-income, first-generation college graduate, I’ve often felt like an outsider in the professional world. After a frustrating encounter at work, I confided in a trusted colleague about my struggles to navigate the nuances of upper-middle-class office culture. Our conversation sparked a deeper exploration of the unspoken realities of growing up low-income and how it shapes our experiences in the workplace.

The Weight of Water Cooler Talk

Casual conversations with colleagues can be awkward, especially when they revolve around recreational activities that require a decent amount of disposable income. As someone who’s had to work multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet, I’ve struggled to relate to discussions about lavish vacations, dining out, and expensive hobbies. These conversations often leave me feeling exhausted or uncomfortable, as I’m reminded of the vastly different norms and expectations that come with growing up low-income.

Navigating Business Travel: A Steep Learning Curve

Business travel can be intimidating, especially when you’re not familiar with the protocols. My first few experiences with air travel were for college recruitment events, and I was grateful that the schools covered the costs. However, when I embarked on my first business trip at 22, I was overwhelmed by the process of booking flights, requesting reimbursements, and securing credit card authorizations for hotels. It’s taken time and practice to become comfortable with these tasks, but I’ve come to realize that my lack of exposure to family travel experiences added to my initial disorientation.

The Cost of Presenting as Polished

Looking professional can be expensive, and it’s a complex issue that intersects with race, gender, and class. As a skinny, white, cisgender woman, I’ve benefited from privileges that allow me to present myself in a way that’s deemed acceptable in the workplace. However, I’ve struggled with issues like acne and dental care, which can be costly to address. Investing in these treatments has not only improved my health but also boosted my confidence in presenting myself as a competent professional.

Finding Common Ground

Despite the challenges, growing up low-income has instilled in me a strong work ethic, conscientiousness, and humility. These traits have enabled me to develop a high level of customer service and engagement, and I’ve found that my empathy and awareness inform my interactions with others. Being open about my experiences has allowed me to connect with colleagues on a deeper level, forming a sense of community and understanding that transcends our professional roles. This trust and connection have, in turn, helped me become a more creative and justice-driven employee.

Breaking Down Barriers

By acknowledging and discussing the unspoken realities of growing up low-income, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and empathetic professional environment. It’s time to break down the barriers that separate us and recognize the value that diverse experiences bring to the table.