Last summer was one of the most unforgettable on record for me. Going into the season, I was a newlywed and newly promoted, but still an ingénue. I was brought up in a very conservative household. But thanks to good grades, I landed a scholarship to college and wandered into the wider world from there — sort of. 

My husband at the time was the first and only man I’d ever been with. We married right after graduation and moved to Washington, D.C., in the fall so he could pursue his career aspirations. Unexpectedly, I also landed a great job. I had just turned 22. Since my new husband was increasingly busy, I actually welcomed my heavy workload to fill the time.

My diligence was rewarded. Six months later, my boss picked me to represent our company at an industry conference. I won’t lie and say... Read More