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From: Simeon Banner Category: Life Date: 27 September 2006 Time: 04:48 AM Review: I came across this online. A young girl had written into a problem page. The young girls anxiety about the superficiality of the adult world, only seems to be echoed in the indifferent, superficial answer, of the journalist. How sad that these cynical magazines exploit teenage anxiety in such a nasty, commercial way, just to sell them eyeliners, hair products and the rest. The reader must be kept in a continual cycle of despair about themselves. The journalist recommends "feeling excited about yourself". What the fuck does that mean? Does anybody walk around reminding themselves to be excited about themselves? I recently saw The Devil Wears Prada, and it got me thinking. I was always told that the kind of superficiality portrayed in the movie exists only in high school. But now I wonder if it continues after high school too. If that's true, how do I deal? --Molly, 15, Naples, FL Superficiality still exists in adult life, but to a different extent--it's not so blatantly obvious. First let me tell you that while this movie depicts what the fashion-magazine industry can be, it's not exactly what it is. Like in any industry, there are all kinds of people who work there: People who work hard, people who choose to treat others like they are less than what they are worth, and people who actually care. It's a lot like a big bowl of Chex Mix--some things are sweet and some salty. I think The Devil Wears Prada was a fun account of the vicious behavior some editors choose to participate in, and yes, it was superficial. But truth be told, I think we're still in a situation today where if two people have similar resumes, the better- qualified one will get the job. But some advice to you (and advice that I remind myself of): Always look your best! This means looking a way that makes you feel more confident and excited about yourself. Atoosa reminds me often that your appearance is a direct reflection of you. I agree. High school and the career world are similar in that people are still interacting in many different situations. From cliques to social circles, it's just important to make sure you have a few good friends and hold them close. Choose friends who tell it like it is and who will pull the "Kick me!" sign off your back before anyone raises his foot--if you know what I mean.