Meaning: The quote "Never get married in college; it's hard to get a start if a prospective employer finds you've already made one mistake" by Elbert Hubbard, a writer and philosopher, offers a cynical view of the impact of early marriage on one's professional life. Hubbard's quote reflects the societal attitudes and expectations prevalent during his time, which suggested that marriage, especially at a young age or during important academic or career pursuits, could be detrimental to one's future prospects.

During the early 20th century when Hubbard lived and wrote, marriage was often considered a significant life event that could potentially affect a person's trajectory in terms of education and career. The prevailing belief was that getting married during college, a formative period in a person's life, could distract individuals from their studies, limit their career opportunities, and potentially lead to regrettable decisions. This sentiment was particularly pertinent for women, as they were often expected to prioritize domestic responsibilities over pursuing professional ambitions.

Hubbard's quote reflects the stigma and bias that individuals, especially women, faced if they chose to marry early in life. In the context of the time, the quote suggests that a prospective employer might view marriage during college as a "mistake," indicating a lack of foresight, maturity, or commitment to one's professional development.

From a modern perspective, Hubbard's quote can be seen as outdated and reflective of a narrow-minded view of personal relationships and their impact on career success. Today, societal attitudes toward marriage and career have evolved significantly, and individuals are generally encouraged to make personal decisions based on their own values and priorities rather than conforming to rigid societal expectations.

In contemporary society, the idea that marriage is a "mistake" or a hindrance to career success is largely dismissed. Many successful professionals have thriving careers while also being married or in committed relationships. Moreover, employers are legally prohibited from discriminating against individuals based on their marital status, and personal choices such as marriage are generally recognized as separate from an individual's professional capabilities.

It is important to note that personal decisions such as marriage, when and if to marry, and the timing of such decisions are deeply personal and should not be dictated by external pressures or expectations. While there may be challenges associated with balancing personal relationships and career aspirations, these challenges are not indicative of a "mistake" but rather a natural part of navigating a multifaceted life.

In conclusion, Elbert Hubbard's quote "Never get married in college; it's hard to get a start if a prospective employer finds you've already made one mistake" reflects the societal attitudes and biases prevalent during his time. While the quote may have been relevant in an earlier era, it is important to recognize that personal decisions such as marriage should be made based on individual values and priorities and should not be viewed as inherently detrimental to one's career prospects. Society has evolved, and individuals are encouraged to pursue personal fulfillment and professional success on their own terms, free from outdated judgments and biases.