Hey everyone,

Graduated in February with a BS in Petroleum Engineering. I’m stuck in my head right now and could use some tough love or perspective.

My dad owns a successful business in event technical services (commercial audio/lighting). My long-term plan has always been to end up there, and the door is completely open for me.

Yet, I’ve spent the last few months applying for corporate engineering and plant operations roles. I realized today that the main reason I’m doing this is ego. I feel like I need to put my degree to work, earn my own stripes, and prove to myself that I didn't get an engineering degree for nothing.

Is it worth putting in a year or two in corporate/field operations just to get that closure and prove I could do it? Or am I just delaying the inevitable and wasting time I could spend growing our family business?

Would love to hear from anyone who struggled with wanting to "prove themselves" before joining a family company.