I understand where you’re coming from, Anna. I think freelancers are often taken advantage of and that ask was definitely too high.

But I always help people for free, reviewing resumes, helping people apply for jobs, and pushing their content. Even editing their work. Sometimes I get bitter. But mostly, it makes me feel good to help and to make friends that way, even if I get nothing back but kindness.

Plus not everyone CAN pay for everything. I’m a young minority woman, and I know that other young minority women often can’t pay consulting fees. I’ve relied on the kindness of others letting me pick their brains for free. And I intend to give my time as freely as I can too now.