A Shocking Phone Call

On Christmas Eve, I received a fateful call from the Human Resources department of my new employer. As the phone rang, dread washed over me, fueled by my past experiences that had conditioned me to expect disappointment. Despite being under 30, I had endured enough psychological trauma to make me apprehensive.

When I picked up the phone, I tried to remain calm, but the HR representative quickly dashed my hopes. She informed me that the company had rescinded my job offer due to my credit score being insufficient. This was a position in the field of science, not finance—why would my credit history matter?

Having fallen behind on bills after being laid off, my credit score had suffered. I never imagined that an employer would withdraw a job offer based on such criteria, especially knowing I was in a position to improve my circumstances. Were they really trying to help me by denying me the chance to earn a living? It was baffling.

The Society We Live In

What sort of twisted society punishes individuals for circumstances beyond their control? I was crushed, feeling as though I had been the target of a cruel joke. It was clear that they needed my expertise, and I needed the job—so why did they choose to start the hiring process anew?

After successfully navigating three rounds of interviews, I had been deemed a suitable candidate. Now, I was left questioning the very nature of the company. Why couldn't they simply acknowledge the skills I brought to the table?

Shortly after this incident, I learned that many organizations, particularly in scientific fields, began including credit checks as part of the employment screening process. This trend struck me as a disturbing means of maintaining social hierarchies.

Consideration for the Future

I couldn't help but ponder whether brilliant minds—like Pasteur, Einstein, or Salk—would be rejected under such policies today. Would this trend hinder advancements in science and technology? It seemed to me that such a punitive outlook could very well be contributing to modern crises, like the ongoing battle against diseases that we struggle to cure.

Since that time, 11 states have outlawed this practice, with 17 more working towards similar legislation. This approach is fundamentally discriminatory, favoring conventional thinkers while sidelining those with innovative and creative potential.

It feels like a systematic assault on a significant portion of the population, marginalizing those who think differently and creating an environment hostile to artistic and scientific progress. In essence, it is an attack on the essence of freedom in America.

A Shift in Path

In the wake of such disillusionment, I made the decision to shift my career path, eventually moving abroad and finding success in China and the Middle East. There, I taught the next generation of scientists, helping to inspire and mentor those who would lead their countries forward.

Unfortunately, returning to the U.S. has been a painful reminder of the injustices I faced over two decades ago. The same issues persist: a society that discards individuals based on criteria that should have no bearing on one’s capabilities.

As we navigate the ongoing challenges of a pandemic, it’s disheartening to observe a persistent anti-intellectualism. Many refuse to take responsible actions to safeguard themselves and their loved ones, ignoring scientific advancements that could help mitigate the crisis.

In closing, my story is a reflection on the harsh realities of a society that often prioritizes conformity over creativity. Merry Christmas, indeed.