As a recent graduate living in one of the most expensive cities in America, I’ve been struggling to find stable employment. Despite years of working minimum wage jobs, I currently earn $50,000 a year, which feels inadequate given my circumstances. Over the past two years, I've faced underemployment and have accumulated ten months of unemployment, which has severely impacted my finances. I can't afford a car, and my rent payments are a constant source of stress. My credit score has taken a hit as a result. I often think about my peers who graduated around the same time and are making between $60,000 to $80,000; they are truly fortunate compared to my situation.