### Chapter 5
College orientation week blurred together in a series of campus tours, information sessions, and awkward social events. Anna attended everything, taking detailed notes and asking questions while other students seemed to glide through activities with casual confidence. She noticed how they grouped together naturally, sharing inside jokes and summer vacation stories she couldn't relate to.
In her business fundamentals class, the professor asked students to introduce themselves and share their career goals. Anna listened to responses: "My father's law firm," "Family investment banking," "Following in my mother's footsteps in marketing." When her turn came, she stood with shaking hands.
"I'm Anna Walters. I come from a small town, and I'm here to build something better—not just for myself, but to prove that where you start doesn't determine where you finish." The room fell silent. Some students exchanged glances, but her professor nodded approvingly.
"Excellent, Miss Walters. Determination often trumps pedigree in business."