U.S. News & World Report published a list of "commencement clichés" [1] for recent college graduates, and attempts to shed light on what's reality after you've taken off the cap and gown. I'm wondering if you think that the clichés they list, and the corresponding realities they've interpreted for each, are in fact cliché in your eyes.

• Follow your passion. What they say: "To make money, pick a field that pays decently and has few liabilities. Chances are, that will lead to more career contentment than pursuing a long-shot dream as your career."
• You've got to pay your dues. What they say: "Many higher-ups think of employees willing to do scut work as drones, even losers."
• Make a difference. What they say: "The nonprofit and government sectors are notoriously inefficient. Working for an ethical business–or starting your own–may make a bigger difference to society."
• Education pays. What they say: "Where possible, get your learning in the real world. Grad school is a must if you want to be a brain surgeon or a professor, but for many careers, you'll learn more of practical value on the job."
• Be true to yourself. What they say: "Follow your internal compass, but seek advice from older mentors you respect and other people who know more than you do."

Source [2]