I knew I could be in over my head when my mom’s old high school friend, Luca Brasi, offered to set up an interview with the Corleone family. “You’ll be great,” he assured me. “Just remember, they value loyalty above all else.” And with that, I found myself standing outside a large, stately mansion, a far cry from my NYU dorm room.
The door opened and a tall, blonde man in a suit, Tom Hagen, greeted me. He had a calm, professional demeanor, and immediately made me feel at ease.
"Luca speaks highly of you," Tom began, leading me into a grand library. "Let's get started."
Tom’s questions were precise and calculated, reflecting his reputation as the family’s Consigliere. "How do you handle conflict resolution?" he asked, leaning back in his chair.
"Well, I believe in finding a solution that benefits all parties involved," I replied. "Understanding motives and negotiating terms that can prevent future issues is key."
Tom nodded, pleased. "That's a very rational approach. We need clear-headed thinkers, especially in times of peace. How do you feel about loyalty?"
"Loyalty is paramount," I said without hesitation. "Especially in a family business."
"Good," Tom said. "Because in this business, loyalty is not just valued—it's expected."
Next, I was ushered into a different room by Sonny Corleone, who exuded the sort of energy that was part charismatic leader, part ticking time bomb.
"So, kid," Sonny said, leaning forward with an intensity that was a bit unsettling. "What do you think about taking risks? You a risk-taker?"
"I think calculated risks are necessary for growth," I said carefully.
Sonny laughed, a loud, booming sound. "Calculated, huh? Sometimes you gotta just do it, you know? No time for thinking, just action! You ready for that?"
"Absolutely," I lied, hoping my nervousness didn’t show. Sonny’s approach was all about guts and instinct, clearly preferring action over deliberation.
The interview transitioned into an informal lunch with Fredo. He seemed relaxed, maybe too relaxed, as he prattled on about the family’s horse stables.
"You like horses?" Fredo asked, looking genuinely interested for the first time.
"They're fascinating animals," I said diplomatically.
"Yeah, yeah," Fredo nodded enthusiastically. "You know, I'm into a lot of things. People think I’m just some goof, but I got my own stuff going on. I could run things if I wanted."
I nodded, sensing his need for validation. "I'm sure you could, Fredo."
His face brightened. "Thanks, buddy. You ever been to Las Vegas? We got interests out there too."
Before I could respond, it was time for the final interview with Don Vito Corleone himself. My heart pounded as I was led into a dimly lit office where the Don sat behind a large mahogany desk.
"Sit," he gestured with a hand adorned with a heavy gold ring. "Luca speaks highly of you. But I want to hear from you. Why do you want to join my family’s business?"
"I see an opportunity to learn from the best," I said. "To be part of something larger, where loyalty and respect are the foundations of success."
The Don smiled slightly, his eyes sharp and assessing. "Respect is everything. But so is wisdom. What do you think about the narcotics business?"
I hesitated, knowing this was a crucial question. "While it’s a lucrative market, it carries significant risks. Not just legal, but it could also tarnish relationships with allies in law enforcement and politics.
Don Corleone nodded approvingly. "Exactly. Gambling and prostitution have built our empire, and we must protect our interests. You're wise beyond your years."
I nodded. “Yes, but there’s something more. Drugs can’t be controlled, I mean this two ways: first, it will lead to in-fighting between the families, and second, unlike other vices, this will poison hearts and minds, eventually even in our own community.”
Don Corleone’s piercing gaze remained fixed on me. He leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled, and asked, “Why should someone like you, on an accelerated track to obtain both J.D. and M.B.A. degrees, want to join my family’s business? You could achieve great success in the civilian world.”
I took a deep breath. “With all due respect, Don Corleone, that’s exactly why I’m here,” I began. “I’m torn. The path I’m on, the degrees, the accolades—they promise inevitable success. But it’s a success that comes from working for others, playing by their rules. In the civilian world, loyalty is scarce. People look out for themselves and there's little sense of family or respect.”
The Don’s expression remained unreadable, his eyes studying me intently as I continued. “In your world, Don Corleone, I see something different. Loyalty, respect, and honor are not just words—they’re the very foundation of everything. I want to be part of something where those values mean everything.”
He nodded slightly, motioning for me to go on.
“I have ambitions,” I admitted. “Not just to succeed, but to create my own path. To live by my own rules. I dream of one day having my own family, and I believe that starting with the Corleone family is the ideal way to learn. Your guidance could help me build something lasting, not just for me, but for my mother and siblings. It’s about being my own man, not dancing to the tune of others who have no loyalty.”
Don Corleone’s face softened into a thoughtful expression. “Ambition is a powerful thing,” he said quietly. “But it must be tempered with wisdom and patience. You speak of loyalty and respect—these are the values that have built my empire. But creating your own thing... it’s a long, hard road. Are you prepared for that?”
“I am,” I replied firmly. “I know it won’t be easy, and I’m ready to prove myself. I believe this is the best path for me and my family.”
The Don leaned forward, his eyes narrowing slightly. “Remember, joining this family means putting the family above all else. It means sacrifices and hard decisions. It’s not just a business—it’s a way of life.”
“I understand, Don Corleone,” I said earnestly. “And I’m ready to embrace that life.”
A slow smile spread across his face, and he nodded approvingly. “You have the spirit, the determination. That’s good. We’ll see if you have the loyalty, patience, and wisdom to match. For now, you’ll work closely with Tom. Learn everything you can. There will be time for ambition later. Prove yourself to the family, and we will help you build your future.”
As I left his office, the weight of his words settled over me. I had been given a chance. I felt a mix of relief and exhilaration. On my way out, I ran into a young man in a military uniform, Michael Corleone.
"Hey," he said, offering a friendly smile. "Interviewing for a job?"
"Yeah," I replied, shaking his hand. "Name's Tony."
"Michael. Nice to meet you. This family can be... a lot," he said with a chuckle. "But it’s also a close-knit group."
"I’ve heard a lot about you," I said. "War hero, right?"
Michael shrugged modestly. "Just doing my duty. I keep out of the family business, though."
"That’s what they say," I replied, but even in this brief interaction, I sensed Michael’s sharp intellect and potential as a leader.
As I left the mansion, I couldn’t help but reflect. Maybe, just maybe, I could find my place within the Corleone family and one day carve out my own niche in this treacherous world. But for now, I’d have to prove myself worthy of their trust and respect. The journey had just begun.
Very funny and creative.