Forbes.com | Alternative Routes

Hello, fellow job seekers! I'm back home now, going through the email. Here's something interesting:

NEW YORK - This year an estimated 1.2 million college seniors will graduate into one of the worst economies in a decade. Unemployment is at 5.8% and job prospects for graduates are bleak, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Even jobs that grads don't want may be tough to land.

Lest this generation think it's the first to enter the real world in a bout of career angst, a quick reality check. Many career success stories began in a state of doubt and confusion--eventually deviating from their intended route. Our slideshow highlights eight executives' surprising starts--and advice--to share with a panicky grad near you.

Read more and check out the slide show... Update: I just came back from watching the slide show. Pretty cool. I didn't take notes, unfortunately. I'll have to stop back later.