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12, named after Maurice Walker’s football jersey number he sported throughout grade school, is about how Maurice’s inability to get drafted into the NFL, despite doing everything right, shapes his life now. Growing up, you’re told that you can be anything you put your mind to, but what happens when no matter the amount of hard work, you cannot make your dream a reality? This story disrupts meritocracy and acknowledges the many career paths and emotional journeys your 20s may take you.

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