A Few Parting Thoughts
A few days before high school graduation, one of the greatest and most influential teachers I ever had shared with us her wish for our futures. It wasn’t to accumulate a great amount of wealth, or even knowledge. It wasn’t for marriage, or families, or great jobs. It wasn’t for health or happiness or success. But yet it was some cosmic combination of these things; the sum of their parts was greater than the whole. Her final wish for us, on the cusp of one of life’s huge milestones, was to become fully self-actualized.
Maslow describes self-actualization as a desire to become fulfilled, to reach one’s full potential. Fullness. Contentment.
I have enjoyed being a student for the last two decades, but being a professional is unbelievable! I have had an amazing few weeks. I moved to a new state, a new city. I started a new job. I am building new bridges, new connections. And somehow, it’s all so much more filling than I ever dreamed. And then, I come home at the end of the every day—with, admittedly, a few things still left on my To Do list—but that doesn’t matter. I have all of this time now to do the things I love, the things that make me happy. The things that, besides this position, fill me up. I am content.
That is sincerely my deepest wish for you all. To begin your own voyage to find self-actualization.
I may not be fully self-actualized; I may never get to such an enlightened state of mind. But I can be mindful of the path I choose, the steps that take me closer to contentment—to filling my life. This experience has already been incredibly rewarding and I am sincerely looking forward to the next steps on my journey.
* * *
I wish you all the best of luck in your future! I hope you all enjoyed reading the blog as much as I enjoyed writing about my experiences. Thank you for this opportunity to share my story with you all!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #25
Final Words.
This will be the last blog I write. I took the time to look back at my journey through these blogs and man, it was a very crazy, hectic, and fast-paced trip that got me to where I am today. I know many of you may still be in the hunt, and to those of you I say: keep your optimism! I am sure you are told time and again that things happen for a reason and while you may not believe that cliche, I do.
I am at my first job in student affairs because I was meant to be here. I am reminded daily of why I was attracted to this position in the first place. For those of you who may also be in the first few weeks of your first job, all I have to say is: it gets easier. I was floundering and overwhelmed the first few weeks, but I have just completed my 4th week in this job and it was the best week yet. I had a rocky start with my role in orientation advising last week, and I was nervous about this week's "record-breaking numbers." I had 10 back-to-back appointments and I was so afraid that I would screw something up. But the pressure also put me on top of my game and I caught mistakes before they blew out of proportion and more importantly I knew how to fix them or who to ask for help. I felt more comfortable in my role and more comfortable as a part of the team. It just...clicked.
So while I know this upcoming year will still be a transition and each day will bring me something new that I have to face, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. I wish all of you who read this blog the very same.
Good luck with the hunt and good luck with transition, everyone!
This will be the last blog I write. I took the time to look back at my journey through these blogs and man, it was a very crazy, hectic, and fast-paced trip that got me to where I am today. I know many of you may still be in the hunt, and to those of you I say: keep your optimism! I am sure you are told time and again that things happen for a reason and while you may not believe that cliche, I do.
I am at my first job in student affairs because I was meant to be here. I am reminded daily of why I was attracted to this position in the first place. For those of you who may also be in the first few weeks of your first job, all I have to say is: it gets easier. I was floundering and overwhelmed the first few weeks, but I have just completed my 4th week in this job and it was the best week yet. I had a rocky start with my role in orientation advising last week, and I was nervous about this week's "record-breaking numbers." I had 10 back-to-back appointments and I was so afraid that I would screw something up. But the pressure also put me on top of my game and I caught mistakes before they blew out of proportion and more importantly I knew how to fix them or who to ask for help. I felt more comfortable in my role and more comfortable as a part of the team. It just...clicked.
So while I know this upcoming year will still be a transition and each day will bring me something new that I have to face, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. I wish all of you who read this blog the very same.
Good luck with the hunt and good luck with transition, everyone!
Friday, June 25, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #24
Making Mistakes.
I had my first trial-by-fire experience at work this week during Orientation. I was allowed to advise my own students and I was ready to jump right in! I felt prepared but at the same time, I was overwhelmed by how much information I needed to remember or keep in the back of my mind. I was at a disadvantage because I missed the orientation adviser training but I had observed and shadowed advisers during the past two weeks so I felt like I knew the gist of it.
Boy, was I wrong about that.
Maybe I'm being too hard on myself but I made a few mistakes that I shouldn't have (all with the same student, who was incredibly agreeable about the whole thing). I kept saying to people who would check in with me: "I can't believe I forgot that!" Or "I feel so bad that I missed that..." But for those of you who have ever worked orientation, I am sure you can understand this when I say: it's chaotic. In all the hussle and bussle of getting students in and out with a full schedule, things can slip through the cracks and your attention to detail can wane. I am lucky that I work with such a supportive team and my coworkers were there to help me understand my mistakes and also fix them.
It's tough, though, feeling like you're the only one messing up. I don't want people to think I haven't been paying attention during my training or that I'm a sloppy adviser. It's only my third week though, and most people who I have talked to here about my trip-ups have tried to tell me that it is not the end of the world and it takes time to fully grasp everything.
I'm nervous for next week though. It's our largest orientation session to date and while this week they started me off easy with about 5 students, next week I know I will be back-to-back with appointments and that leaves little room for error...or should I say little time to FIX errors...
I have this card framed in my office that my professor gave me which serves as a gentle reminder during these times of doubt/anxiety/stress, which reads: So slowly, breathe and smile.
*Woo-saaaaah*
I had my first trial-by-fire experience at work this week during Orientation. I was allowed to advise my own students and I was ready to jump right in! I felt prepared but at the same time, I was overwhelmed by how much information I needed to remember or keep in the back of my mind. I was at a disadvantage because I missed the orientation adviser training but I had observed and shadowed advisers during the past two weeks so I felt like I knew the gist of it.
Boy, was I wrong about that.
Maybe I'm being too hard on myself but I made a few mistakes that I shouldn't have (all with the same student, who was incredibly agreeable about the whole thing). I kept saying to people who would check in with me: "I can't believe I forgot that!" Or "I feel so bad that I missed that..." But for those of you who have ever worked orientation, I am sure you can understand this when I say: it's chaotic. In all the hussle and bussle of getting students in and out with a full schedule, things can slip through the cracks and your attention to detail can wane. I am lucky that I work with such a supportive team and my coworkers were there to help me understand my mistakes and also fix them.
It's tough, though, feeling like you're the only one messing up. I don't want people to think I haven't been paying attention during my training or that I'm a sloppy adviser. It's only my third week though, and most people who I have talked to here about my trip-ups have tried to tell me that it is not the end of the world and it takes time to fully grasp everything.
I'm nervous for next week though. It's our largest orientation session to date and while this week they started me off easy with about 5 students, next week I know I will be back-to-back with appointments and that leaves little room for error...or should I say little time to FIX errors...
I have this card framed in my office that my professor gave me which serves as a gentle reminder during these times of doubt/anxiety/stress, which reads: So slowly, breathe and smile.
*Woo-saaaaah*
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #23
Group Dynamics.
One of the most memorable classes I took in graduate school was about Group Dynamics. Perhaps it was because the professor was one of the most intelligent, articulate, hilarious, and extremely caring people I have come to know in the realm of academe. But mostly it was so memorable because of what it was about and what occurred in the class daily: GROUP DYNAMICS.
The good. The bad. The uncomfortable. The awkward. The frustrating. All of the dynamics that I encountered in that class prepared me for work in higher education. Honestly, I cannot tell you how important it is for me to assess the group of which I am now a part. I am treading lightly, as I begin to see the relationships, the "frenemies, the cliques, and the alliances. My plan? To be nice to everyone and not engage in the gossip that people "let me in on" during our conversations.
Don't you hate that? Just because you're new and you don't know everyone's personalities and roles they play in the group, people approach you and say, "Now let me let you in on a secret--this doesn't leave the room but..." and then they begin to tell you something like Janey over there has a habit of being needy, or Billy Bob thinks too highly of himself. It's a tough situation to be in because 1) you want to be included but 2) you don't want to take sides. Since I haven't had enough time to formulate my own opinions about these people yet, I just silently listen, but I will not engage in that kind of gossip!
In my opinion, everyone I have met is great in their own way and I am friendly with each of them. But our department is divided physically--we are split in two separate buildings. The physical divide is beginning to manifest itself in front of me in subtle ways. For example, I sent out an email today asking for suggestions about who to pair up with to do some shadowing. One person in my office said that I could choose anyone and since I've begun making connections with folks on the other side, I should work with one of them. I read that email and was like "Oh crap. Do they think I'm betraying them because I went to lunch with people from 'the other side?' Do they not get along with those people? Will I be shunned in my own office now?" It's silly to think, but when you work in such a small office like mine--only 7 people--and there is a larger "main" office that holds the rest of the department, it is very easy to form a sub-family and feel like a separate entity. That means stronger, deeper bonds. That in turn means interesting group dynamics for when EVERYONE gets involved.
I should probably bring my book from that course into my office as a permanent fixture on my bookshelf!
One of the most memorable classes I took in graduate school was about Group Dynamics. Perhaps it was because the professor was one of the most intelligent, articulate, hilarious, and extremely caring people I have come to know in the realm of academe. But mostly it was so memorable because of what it was about and what occurred in the class daily: GROUP DYNAMICS.
The good. The bad. The uncomfortable. The awkward. The frustrating. All of the dynamics that I encountered in that class prepared me for work in higher education. Honestly, I cannot tell you how important it is for me to assess the group of which I am now a part. I am treading lightly, as I begin to see the relationships, the "frenemies, the cliques, and the alliances. My plan? To be nice to everyone and not engage in the gossip that people "let me in on" during our conversations.
Don't you hate that? Just because you're new and you don't know everyone's personalities and roles they play in the group, people approach you and say, "Now let me let you in on a secret--this doesn't leave the room but..." and then they begin to tell you something like Janey over there has a habit of being needy, or Billy Bob thinks too highly of himself. It's a tough situation to be in because 1) you want to be included but 2) you don't want to take sides. Since I haven't had enough time to formulate my own opinions about these people yet, I just silently listen, but I will not engage in that kind of gossip!
In my opinion, everyone I have met is great in their own way and I am friendly with each of them. But our department is divided physically--we are split in two separate buildings. The physical divide is beginning to manifest itself in front of me in subtle ways. For example, I sent out an email today asking for suggestions about who to pair up with to do some shadowing. One person in my office said that I could choose anyone and since I've begun making connections with folks on the other side, I should work with one of them. I read that email and was like "Oh crap. Do they think I'm betraying them because I went to lunch with people from 'the other side?' Do they not get along with those people? Will I be shunned in my own office now?" It's silly to think, but when you work in such a small office like mine--only 7 people--and there is a larger "main" office that holds the rest of the department, it is very easy to form a sub-family and feel like a separate entity. That means stronger, deeper bonds. That in turn means interesting group dynamics for when EVERYONE gets involved.
I should probably bring my book from that course into my office as a permanent fixture on my bookshelf!
Real World: Job Search #20
Theory to Practice
It just occurred to me that in the next few weeks, I’m about to undergo some major transitions. Not that this is exactly a new revelation, but it just sort of started manifesting itself more in my thoughts. I’m about to move to a new state, a new city—starting a new job at a new school. With new people and places. New challenges, new triumphs. New supervisors. A lot of new things…
And then I started to think about all of the transitions I’ve already undergone in the last few months: graduating, no longer being a student, ending my assistantship, leaving my students and friends.
And before I started getting worked up about this prospect, I remembered that I was already equipped with the knowledge to combat this anxiety: Nancy Schlossberg’s theory about transitions. Personally, it’s always been one of the most relevant theories about which I learned in graduate school.
I’m going to totally oversimplify this, but in a nutshell, the theory explores a framework for coping with transitions. While all of my recent and upcoming transitions have been anticipated, some of the effects have been unanticipated. However, I have tools to help me as I undergo these major life transitions: Schlossberg’s four S’s.
· Situation – fully understanding the situation—such as the timing, what has brought abut the transition(s), whether a role change will occur, concurrent stress, etc—helps to make the transition less daunting
· Self – personal and demographic characteristics, as well as psychological resources, affect how a person views and copes with transition
· Support – comes in the form of family, friends, intimate relationships, and institutions/communities
· Strategy – the steps that dictate how a person chooses to deal with the transitions
Using this knowledge, I’ve done a sort of mental checklist of the Four S’s for my own situation. It’s been helpful in getting a handle on the changes. Maybe it will be helpful for you!
[Schlossberg, N.K., Waters, E.B., & Goodman, J. (1995). Counseling adults in transition 2nd edition. New York: Springer]
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #22
One Week Down.
I cannot believe I have finished one week of work in my new position. It feels like an accomplishment in and of itself! But I was having a conversation with one of my colleagues, who is three weeks into the same position, and we were talking about how we wish we could just blink and it'll be one year later and we are experts and know everything.
Isn't it funny how not knowing everything makes us uneasy in our positions? It makes sense though when, as graduate students, we became experts in our assistantship areas and knew everything we needed about our department and the school in general. To go from that to a newbie is tough and also a little humbling. Everyone who is starting a job or will be starting by the end of the summer, the only tip I can really give you is to be prepared to feel lost and ASK QUESTIONS. Depending on what kind of training you are given--be it trial by fire or organized back-to-back meetings--you may feel insecure or at ease.
When I meet for training sessions with another colleague (who is an alum of the university and has worked in this position for years) it is like talking to an encyclopedia and all I can think of is: I want to be like that! But I keep needing to remind myself, and through blogging remind all you other newbies out there: it will take time, but one day we will be the go-to person. One day we will be the walking encyclopedia!
I cannot believe I have finished one week of work in my new position. It feels like an accomplishment in and of itself! But I was having a conversation with one of my colleagues, who is three weeks into the same position, and we were talking about how we wish we could just blink and it'll be one year later and we are experts and know everything.
Isn't it funny how not knowing everything makes us uneasy in our positions? It makes sense though when, as graduate students, we became experts in our assistantship areas and knew everything we needed about our department and the school in general. To go from that to a newbie is tough and also a little humbling. Everyone who is starting a job or will be starting by the end of the summer, the only tip I can really give you is to be prepared to feel lost and ASK QUESTIONS. Depending on what kind of training you are given--be it trial by fire or organized back-to-back meetings--you may feel insecure or at ease.
When I meet for training sessions with another colleague (who is an alum of the university and has worked in this position for years) it is like talking to an encyclopedia and all I can think of is: I want to be like that! But I keep needing to remind myself, and through blogging remind all you other newbies out there: it will take time, but one day we will be the go-to person. One day we will be the walking encyclopedia!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Real World: Job Search #19
Summer Sun
I remember at some point in my last semester, I wrangled with a decision about what to do during the summer. My assistantship had graciously offered to keep me on until I started my job in July. I would have been able to stay in my apartment. I would have been making money, which would probably have been nice—a few extra dollars to help me settle into the new job and the new home. But I wouldn’t have had any time to myself.
There are two different camps with opinions on this subject. One side says that you should work, save the money, stay mentally in shape, keep busy. The other side says to take a break, go travel somewhere, spend time with people. I’ve always believed that I was in the first camp. I had absolutely no intention of taking a break between graduation and starting my job.
But when I sat down and thought about it, I started to change my mind. See, I’ve been working nonstop for the last five years. Since I went straight from undergrad to grad school, I never had the opportunity to have some “me” time. I’ve been a student for as long as I can remember. I had a job in undergrad that sometimes prevented me from coming home over breaks. So between that job, summer internships, and other opportunities I’ve been afforded over summer and holiday breaks, well—I haven’t had a chance to breathe in almost five years.
So, instead of staying up at school and working, instead of saying yes for once, I said no. I made the decision mostly for my sanity. I didn’t want to start a new job and then be burnt out in the first few months because I haven’t had a break. So, I took a break. I’m home for the summer. I’m not working. Since I have graduated, there’s no schoolwork to keep me tied to my computer.
About a month into this break, I’m glad I took it. I have spent time with my family. I’ve slept in late. I’ve spent time at the beach. I’ve visited friends. I’ve gotten to read for pleasure! I have a little less than a month to go of my summer break, but I couldn’t have asked for a better “vacation.”
I remember at some point in my last semester, I wrangled with a decision about what to do during the summer. My assistantship had graciously offered to keep me on until I started my job in July. I would have been able to stay in my apartment. I would have been making money, which would probably have been nice—a few extra dollars to help me settle into the new job and the new home. But I wouldn’t have had any time to myself.
There are two different camps with opinions on this subject. One side says that you should work, save the money, stay mentally in shape, keep busy. The other side says to take a break, go travel somewhere, spend time with people. I’ve always believed that I was in the first camp. I had absolutely no intention of taking a break between graduation and starting my job.
But when I sat down and thought about it, I started to change my mind. See, I’ve been working nonstop for the last five years. Since I went straight from undergrad to grad school, I never had the opportunity to have some “me” time. I’ve been a student for as long as I can remember. I had a job in undergrad that sometimes prevented me from coming home over breaks. So between that job, summer internships, and other opportunities I’ve been afforded over summer and holiday breaks, well—I haven’t had a chance to breathe in almost five years.
So, instead of staying up at school and working, instead of saying yes for once, I said no. I made the decision mostly for my sanity. I didn’t want to start a new job and then be burnt out in the first few months because I haven’t had a break. So, I took a break. I’m home for the summer. I’m not working. Since I have graduated, there’s no schoolwork to keep me tied to my computer.
About a month into this break, I’m glad I took it. I have spent time with my family. I’ve slept in late. I’ve spent time at the beach. I’ve visited friends. I’ve gotten to read for pleasure! I have a little less than a month to go of my summer break, but I couldn’t have asked for a better “vacation.”
Monday, June 7, 2010
Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #21
Job One, Day One.
I wanted to open this post by channeling Captain Kirk from Star Trek. You know, the whole "Captain's Log: Star Date June 7th, 2010" and what have you. Why, you may ask? Well because today was my first day at my new job and it certainly feels like I'm sailing through space, through unexplored terrain. Don't get me wrong, today was amazing. It was probably the best first day of work I've ever had over the past few positions I've held in various arenas. Nonetheless, I still feel like I'm floating away through space...and wondering at the same time how I will ever remember everything!
It's an exciting challenge--getting to feel comfortable in a new school with different procedures and unfamiliar places and faces. I know in time it will be home and I cannot wait. I can honestly say that starting work after the most difficult two and half weeks of my life was a welcome change for me. I felt relieved and comforted the minute I stepped into my new office (10 minutes early) and saw the team setting up a welcome breakfast for me. The warm greetings, the sympathies, and then the sheer excitement and joy they shared with me about the job and having me with them was so humbling. I am thrilled to be working with these people. I remember writing about how I really enjoyed interviewing at this school because of the people. I also remember my professor telling me that if you feel as though you will get along with the team members, that's a huge pro because they will be the people who you will be spending most of your time with each week.
As an "outsider" for now, I could tell that the team really acts like a family. I cannot describe how comforting that was, especially since I am still a little emotional and being away from my family right now is tough. But this job...these people...it may sound corny but I really can see them becoming my second family. The community there is so bonded and I just cannot wait until I form those bonds with everyone. I am so looking forward to day two!
I wanted to open this post by channeling Captain Kirk from Star Trek. You know, the whole "Captain's Log: Star Date June 7th, 2010" and what have you. Why, you may ask? Well because today was my first day at my new job and it certainly feels like I'm sailing through space, through unexplored terrain. Don't get me wrong, today was amazing. It was probably the best first day of work I've ever had over the past few positions I've held in various arenas. Nonetheless, I still feel like I'm floating away through space...and wondering at the same time how I will ever remember everything!
It's an exciting challenge--getting to feel comfortable in a new school with different procedures and unfamiliar places and faces. I know in time it will be home and I cannot wait. I can honestly say that starting work after the most difficult two and half weeks of my life was a welcome change for me. I felt relieved and comforted the minute I stepped into my new office (10 minutes early) and saw the team setting up a welcome breakfast for me. The warm greetings, the sympathies, and then the sheer excitement and joy they shared with me about the job and having me with them was so humbling. I am thrilled to be working with these people. I remember writing about how I really enjoyed interviewing at this school because of the people. I also remember my professor telling me that if you feel as though you will get along with the team members, that's a huge pro because they will be the people who you will be spending most of your time with each week.
As an "outsider" for now, I could tell that the team really acts like a family. I cannot describe how comforting that was, especially since I am still a little emotional and being away from my family right now is tough. But this job...these people...it may sound corny but I really can see them becoming my second family. The community there is so bonded and I just cannot wait until I form those bonds with everyone. I am so looking forward to day two!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Real World: Job Search #18
Offering Hope
It’s June 1st. Maybe if you are still reading this blog, you are still in the midst of the job search. You are not alone, I promise! I know several friends and future colleagues that are still searching for that job offer—some even waiting for a first on-campus interview, or a phone interview. I’m writing to you all to tell you: DON’T GIVE UP!
Here’s how the job search works. It’s kind of like a Catch-22. As grad students, we’re all looking for a job. We find some available positions, which get snapped up pretty quickly. Then, we apply for some “anticipated” openings, too. These anticipated openings only become available if and only if the person in that position currently decides to move on.
The problem with the anticipated openings is that the staff members currently in those positions are also job searching—and the positions for which they are applying may also be anticipated. So they can’t make a decision on whether they are leaving until someone else makes a decision first. In this current economic climate, the people who up and leave a position without the promise of another job are few and far between. Everyone wants job security.
All of this to say that positions are still opening up every day. Keep checking online. Keep using your contacts. Maybe it’s time to start broadening your search. If you have absolutely never considered another functional area, maybe now is the time. Keep it up! Good luck, friends!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #20
Life threw perhaps the most unexpected curveball at me two days before graduation: a death in my family. It has been very difficult to say the least and has really affected a lot in the past two weeks. I found out after I left my office on my last day of work in my assistantship, as if that day wasn't hard enough already. Of course I was unable to attend my graduation, which was honestly one of the hardest things for me to think about. I was so looking forward to pictures with my friends, classmates, professors, and family. It is hard to be in this state right now---juggling the "congratulations" from family members and friends at the same time they are giving me their sympathies.
However, I do not want this post to be about my grieving. I wanted to share my thoughts on how something like this has affected the job world. When I selected this job opportunity, I was pleased to be close to home, even though at first it may have not felt as adventurous. But things happen for a reason. I truly believe that this job is what I needed, even though I may not have known at the time, "fate" or whatever entity you want to believe in, guided me to this job because it was right for me and for some reason, I knew I needed to be close to home. This incident certainly makes me feel so relieved for not only having a job in the first place, but for having a job that is not a plane ride away from my family.
In addition, when I told my new supervisor about this, she was more understanding than I imagined. I was supposed to start on June 1st. Given the circumstances, I knew I wouldn't be ready to get up and leave so soon (not only considering my emotional state, but also the practicality of moving into a new apartment). I asked for a short delay and she told me to just contact her when I am ready and not to worry about anything. I am very grateful for their flexibility. It shows they really care about their employees.
I will have more to report next week, at which point I will be in my new home and preparing to start my new job. But to all of you who have graduated by now: congratulations. We have made a huge accomplishment.
However, I do not want this post to be about my grieving. I wanted to share my thoughts on how something like this has affected the job world. When I selected this job opportunity, I was pleased to be close to home, even though at first it may have not felt as adventurous. But things happen for a reason. I truly believe that this job is what I needed, even though I may not have known at the time, "fate" or whatever entity you want to believe in, guided me to this job because it was right for me and for some reason, I knew I needed to be close to home. This incident certainly makes me feel so relieved for not only having a job in the first place, but for having a job that is not a plane ride away from my family.
In addition, when I told my new supervisor about this, she was more understanding than I imagined. I was supposed to start on June 1st. Given the circumstances, I knew I wouldn't be ready to get up and leave so soon (not only considering my emotional state, but also the practicality of moving into a new apartment). I asked for a short delay and she told me to just contact her when I am ready and not to worry about anything. I am very grateful for their flexibility. It shows they really care about their employees.
I will have more to report next week, at which point I will be in my new home and preparing to start my new job. But to all of you who have graduated by now: congratulations. We have made a huge accomplishment.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Real World: Job Search #17
In-Between
There really isn’t much to report lately. I have graduated and am now a Master of Education. Yay! I’d be lying if I said that it wasn’t a relief to know, as I walked across the stage, that I had a job waiting for me. I’ve started making arrangements for the imminent move to a new state, new city, and new job: figuring out how to switch my license over, how to change my residency, etc. I’ve also been spending time learning more about the area in which I’ll be living: where to shop, where I could meet people, where to go to have some fun.
Between the preparation, research, and spending time with family and friends, I’ve been keeping busy. I’m looking forward to some time spent traveling—but I know that July (and my first day of my new job) will soon be here!
There are still a lot of friends and colleagues who have not yet found that perfect job…keep looking. Keep your hopes up; it’s somewhere out there. There are still positions opening up daily. I wish you all the best of luck and much success in the rest of your job search.
There really isn’t much to report lately. I have graduated and am now a Master of Education. Yay! I’d be lying if I said that it wasn’t a relief to know, as I walked across the stage, that I had a job waiting for me. I’ve started making arrangements for the imminent move to a new state, new city, and new job: figuring out how to switch my license over, how to change my residency, etc. I’ve also been spending time learning more about the area in which I’ll be living: where to shop, where I could meet people, where to go to have some fun.
Between the preparation, research, and spending time with family and friends, I’ve been keeping busy. I’m looking forward to some time spent traveling—but I know that July (and my first day of my new job) will soon be here!
There are still a lot of friends and colleagues who have not yet found that perfect job…keep looking. Keep your hopes up; it’s somewhere out there. There are still positions opening up daily. I wish you all the best of luck and much success in the rest of your job search.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #19
Counting Down the Days.
So in exactly one week I will be walking across the university's stage in my cap and gown and donning my new masters hood. I am very excited. Everything is coming to an end so quickly that it is really hard for me to fully grasp this concept of completing graduate school. I will be 25 year old with a master of science degree. Looking back just three years ago when I was graduating with my bachelors, I did not imagine my life would turn out like this, but I am so grateful to have chosen this path.
I found my fit and I am excited to see what my first job in the field of student affairs will bring. I have changed so much during this program both professionally and personally, and I can honestly say that my life would not be as so rewarding as it is now if I had not made the choice to change my career from media to higher education. I feel like I have chosen a path that I am truly passionate about. Having passion to do what you do day in and day out is so important and I realize that as I am about to enter this new career.
One week from now I will be writing in this blog with my masters degree officially conferred. One week from now I will no longer be a graduate student. One week from now I will be a new professional. One week from now a new chapter in my life begins. (One week from now I will have to drop the subtitle of my blog: "Let the Hunt Begin")
So in exactly one week I will be walking across the university's stage in my cap and gown and donning my new masters hood. I am very excited. Everything is coming to an end so quickly that it is really hard for me to fully grasp this concept of completing graduate school. I will be 25 year old with a master of science degree. Looking back just three years ago when I was graduating with my bachelors, I did not imagine my life would turn out like this, but I am so grateful to have chosen this path.
I found my fit and I am excited to see what my first job in the field of student affairs will bring. I have changed so much during this program both professionally and personally, and I can honestly say that my life would not be as so rewarding as it is now if I had not made the choice to change my career from media to higher education. I feel like I have chosen a path that I am truly passionate about. Having passion to do what you do day in and day out is so important and I realize that as I am about to enter this new career.
One week from now I will be writing in this blog with my masters degree officially conferred. One week from now I will no longer be a graduate student. One week from now I will be a new professional. One week from now a new chapter in my life begins. (One week from now I will have to drop the subtitle of my blog: "Let the Hunt Begin")
Friday, May 7, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #18
Reality of Ending Graduate School Part II: Finding a New Home.
I think I mentioned that I spent last weekend looking at apartments for when I move in (less than) three weeks. I thought I found a place that was perfect for me. Three days after I see the place and I am under the impression I have secured a new home, I get a call from the realtor telling me the owner backed out and is not putting this particular room up for rent anymore. COME ON! I was so happy and relaxed because I thought all I had to do for the next two weeks was focus on finishing up graduate school and participating in graduation. Now I have to start from square one and line up new places to look at and make another trip down to the area. The drive itself is about 3.5 hours away. Not what you would call "close." Also, the routes to get to the place, of course, are perhaps the most notorious highways in all of the northeast. You may say, "Quit exaggerating! You're so dramatic!" Well, you sit in my driver's seat for those 3.5 hours during rush hour and maybe you'll change that tune.
So I made a second trip to visit places and this time went much smoother than the first. Maybe because I'm getting used to driving around the area so I was less stressed. Each place I saw I knew I could live in, it was just a matter of comparing what was better. I have to take into consideration the cost, commute, amenities, and space. After weighing all the pros and cons, I have decided to suck up a little bit of a longer commute than what I'm used to currently a more open floor plan and separate living areas (not a studio). For graduate school, my commute is literally 10 minutes. This new place that I'm going to try and secure is going to be about 15 minutes without traffic, and probably 25-30 minutes during rush hour. It might not sound like that big of a deal, but with bad city traffic, apparently it can get frustrating.
I'm excited though I don't want to get my hopes up. If this place works out, I'm just minutes away from a beautiful state park, shopping, grocery stores, banks, and the train station. It's a really nice location, just like my original choice from last week. I'm the type of person that moves to a new place and really likes to settle in. I don't like to move around a lot. I prefer to dig in my roots. For example, in graduate schools, I stayed in the same house share for all two years. I just like to get comfortable and make the strange familiar.
It's going to feel very real that I am starting this new chapter in my life when I move into my new place. Just please cross your fingers for me that this one will work out and I will not have to make another trip to view other apartments. I love craigslist.org but honestly, my eyes may pop out if I have to sort through more apartment listings!
I think I mentioned that I spent last weekend looking at apartments for when I move in (less than) three weeks. I thought I found a place that was perfect for me. Three days after I see the place and I am under the impression I have secured a new home, I get a call from the realtor telling me the owner backed out and is not putting this particular room up for rent anymore. COME ON! I was so happy and relaxed because I thought all I had to do for the next two weeks was focus on finishing up graduate school and participating in graduation. Now I have to start from square one and line up new places to look at and make another trip down to the area. The drive itself is about 3.5 hours away. Not what you would call "close." Also, the routes to get to the place, of course, are perhaps the most notorious highways in all of the northeast. You may say, "Quit exaggerating! You're so dramatic!" Well, you sit in my driver's seat for those 3.5 hours during rush hour and maybe you'll change that tune.
So I made a second trip to visit places and this time went much smoother than the first. Maybe because I'm getting used to driving around the area so I was less stressed. Each place I saw I knew I could live in, it was just a matter of comparing what was better. I have to take into consideration the cost, commute, amenities, and space. After weighing all the pros and cons, I have decided to suck up a little bit of a longer commute than what I'm used to currently a more open floor plan and separate living areas (not a studio). For graduate school, my commute is literally 10 minutes. This new place that I'm going to try and secure is going to be about 15 minutes without traffic, and probably 25-30 minutes during rush hour. It might not sound like that big of a deal, but with bad city traffic, apparently it can get frustrating.
I'm excited though I don't want to get my hopes up. If this place works out, I'm just minutes away from a beautiful state park, shopping, grocery stores, banks, and the train station. It's a really nice location, just like my original choice from last week. I'm the type of person that moves to a new place and really likes to settle in. I don't like to move around a lot. I prefer to dig in my roots. For example, in graduate schools, I stayed in the same house share for all two years. I just like to get comfortable and make the strange familiar.
It's going to feel very real that I am starting this new chapter in my life when I move into my new place. Just please cross your fingers for me that this one will work out and I will not have to make another trip to view other apartments. I love craigslist.org but honestly, my eyes may pop out if I have to sort through more apartment listings!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #17
Reality of Ending Graduate School Part I: Leaving the Ones You Need.
Sorry for the late post, folks. This past week has been very busy and full of some happy and sad moments. I wrapped up my year-long internship on Friday. While the internship was frustrating at times and I may have thought to myself that I was being underutilized, it wasn't until I had to start packing up my office and had time to reflect that I realized how very meaningful the experience was and how much I truly learned.
I always told my classmates, colleagues, and professors that the best thing about my internship experience were the people. I have never worked with such an amazing team before in my time in student affairs. These extraordinary women come from all walks of life with a wonderful understanding of social justice and they have backgrounds and life experiences that are so valuable in this field. I really cannot express how much I have learned from them just through our daily conversations. It's funny how sometimes the most valuable experiences are what appear to be the most mundane (conversations that do not relate to work projects). If anything, these amazing women reinforced my passion to continue my own education as I develop as an advocate for social justice.
Leaving these women, who truly understand what it means to encounter a microagression, for example, and have such skill when working to educate students on the importance of diversity, was bittersweet. On one hand, I was happy to have more free time during my weeks to focus on my capstone assignments and wrap up graduate school. On the other hand, it made me nervous about my future. Will I be so lucky to find such allies in my job? It was so comforting to have these women to talk to and not have to worry about being viewed as "oversensitive" when discussing the -isms in our society and on our campuses. I suppose I took it all for granted. Now that I am leaving, I am nervous I will not be able to have those candid conversations with other colleagues in my new job. If that is the case, how do I find such people? How does a new professional seek allies?
My internship supervisor heard my concern and suggested to 1) keep in touch with all of them whenever I needed to talk, and 2) to look for organizations or groups on campus at my new job. There may be a group of faculty/staff whose focus revolves around diversity or the school may have a intercultural center, become involved in their efforts. I will never forget these women and hope to keep our relationships growing to ultimately develop into mentor relationships. I really think I will need their support wherever I go in this field over the years.
In addition to leaving my internship, I also made a trip to my future home in order to go apartment hunting. It was quite an experience. After a full day of driving from town-to-town, looking at closets, kitchens, bedrooms, discussing prices, utilities, areas, safety... oh gosh, I felt like I was buying a home! I was extremely excited about one option though. When I pulled into the neighborhood, it just felt like home. As you may recall, I'm moving to a city-like area, which is not really the type of person I am. But this one place was like an oasis in the middle of the city. It was close to everything: the school, the mall, the upscale downtown scene, the park...everything! It was quiet and peaceful and removed from the chaos of highways, parkways, turnpikes, and multi-lane roads. I am up against one other person for the place, so please keep your fingers crossed for me.
I graduate in 20 days and start my job in 30 days. I just hope this place will be my new "home" otherwise, my next post may be me freaking out about more apartment hunting trips.
Sorry for the late post, folks. This past week has been very busy and full of some happy and sad moments. I wrapped up my year-long internship on Friday. While the internship was frustrating at times and I may have thought to myself that I was being underutilized, it wasn't until I had to start packing up my office and had time to reflect that I realized how very meaningful the experience was and how much I truly learned.
I always told my classmates, colleagues, and professors that the best thing about my internship experience were the people. I have never worked with such an amazing team before in my time in student affairs. These extraordinary women come from all walks of life with a wonderful understanding of social justice and they have backgrounds and life experiences that are so valuable in this field. I really cannot express how much I have learned from them just through our daily conversations. It's funny how sometimes the most valuable experiences are what appear to be the most mundane (conversations that do not relate to work projects). If anything, these amazing women reinforced my passion to continue my own education as I develop as an advocate for social justice.
Leaving these women, who truly understand what it means to encounter a microagression, for example, and have such skill when working to educate students on the importance of diversity, was bittersweet. On one hand, I was happy to have more free time during my weeks to focus on my capstone assignments and wrap up graduate school. On the other hand, it made me nervous about my future. Will I be so lucky to find such allies in my job? It was so comforting to have these women to talk to and not have to worry about being viewed as "oversensitive" when discussing the -isms in our society and on our campuses. I suppose I took it all for granted. Now that I am leaving, I am nervous I will not be able to have those candid conversations with other colleagues in my new job. If that is the case, how do I find such people? How does a new professional seek allies?
My internship supervisor heard my concern and suggested to 1) keep in touch with all of them whenever I needed to talk, and 2) to look for organizations or groups on campus at my new job. There may be a group of faculty/staff whose focus revolves around diversity or the school may have a intercultural center, become involved in their efforts. I will never forget these women and hope to keep our relationships growing to ultimately develop into mentor relationships. I really think I will need their support wherever I go in this field over the years.
In addition to leaving my internship, I also made a trip to my future home in order to go apartment hunting. It was quite an experience. After a full day of driving from town-to-town, looking at closets, kitchens, bedrooms, discussing prices, utilities, areas, safety... oh gosh, I felt like I was buying a home! I was extremely excited about one option though. When I pulled into the neighborhood, it just felt like home. As you may recall, I'm moving to a city-like area, which is not really the type of person I am. But this one place was like an oasis in the middle of the city. It was close to everything: the school, the mall, the upscale downtown scene, the park...everything! It was quiet and peaceful and removed from the chaos of highways, parkways, turnpikes, and multi-lane roads. I am up against one other person for the place, so please keep your fingers crossed for me.
I graduate in 20 days and start my job in 30 days. I just hope this place will be my new "home" otherwise, my next post may be me freaking out about more apartment hunting trips.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Real World: Job Search #16
The Hardest Parts…
The semester is winding down. It’s May. Graduation is right around the corner. So is moving. So is leaving. I’ve never been really excited about change. I suppose I cope with it well enough; if I can envision the changes, it usually helps. But it’s not something that is terribly enthusing. The problem is that there are some many intangibles—so many uncertainties—right now and I can’t picture the future. So to have to deal with a whole bunch of changes at once—this is going to be overwhelming.
As I’m sitting in the apartment where I’ve lived for the last two years, surrounded by boxes, my walls bare for the first time since I’ve moved in, preparing for the big move—it hits me: I’m not READY for the big move. I like this apartment. It’s home. Even the blue carpet and the green tile. It’s tacky, but it’s comfortable and familiar. I don’t know where I’m living yet, what my new apartment will look like, or how I’m going to decorate the space. The uncertainty is causing mild anxiety.
But it’s the thought of leaving behind the people that leaves me absolutely breathless, on the verge of tears every time I think about it. I’m so excited about my new job, and I absolutely cannot wait to start it—but if I could take everyone with me to my new job, well, I’d just be the happiest girl in the world. My students are absolutely amazing and I’m so thankful that I’ve had the opportunity to work with such a phenomenal, motivated, and dedicated group of students. Many of them have broken through the barrier of the advisor-adivsee relationship and have become my friend. Some of them will be graduating with me, but I will leave others behind. It’s times like these that you hope the lessons you’ve taught make a difference.
The thing about friends, though, is that if you find a really great group of people, they become your family away from home. There’s a quote I found that just so perfectly sums up the friendships I’ve made:
“Your college friends become a kind of family. You eat together, go to games, laugh fight, cry, and do absolutely nothing together—until you can’t seem to remember how you ever lived your life without them in the first place.” These are the relationships I will treasure. I don’t know what I would have done with out them—and I don’t know what I’m going to do without them right there when I need them.
And now that I’ve become way too emotional, it’s time for me to get back to studying. Just a few finals and a paper to go before I get that diploma. It’s going to be so bittersweet.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #16
Keeping Busy.
Many of my classmates are still going through their interview processes and it feels weird to have a job lined up because part of me wishes I could participate in the stress and frenzy that they are going through right now, but the other part of my is relieved that I have things settled. I do get to keep myself busy in other ways though.
Now that I have this job, I have begin the reality. This includes relocating all of my things and building a new life in a new place. Trying to find a place to live in another state while still going to graduate school full time and working a 20-hour assistantship and a 10-hour internship is quite difficult. I feel like I'm on craigslist during all my free time. When I'm not at work or doing homework for school, I'm perusing the site for viable (and affordable) living options. I have craigslist and googlemaps set as my homepages on Firefox because I still need to learn the area and the towns/city that surround my institution. It's so very confusing. I also feel like I've emailed about so many listings that it's hard to keep track of everything. Even more difficult is setting up appointments to visit the place. Because of my work/school schedule right now, I really cannot afford to make a trip down there to look at apartments until the weekend of May 7th, if I'm being realistic. If I really want to push myself, I can try for the weekend of April 30th, but it'd be pretty tight. Many of the places I've inquired about are asking me to call just a few days before I arrive, whenever that will be, because they cannot guarantee that what I'm looking at will be available when I can come visit. Apparently, real estate down there moves pretty quickly.
For those of you who are accepting job offers and will not be provided on-campus housing, take a tip from me and do your research! I was lucky enough to get a listing of areas from a current employee so I could narrow down my options to the safer and nicer areas to live in near the school. This really helped me in my search, and I was able to find what types of businesses are around these towns. Think about everything: laundry, gym, parks, grocery stores, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, entertainment, etc. I'm finding that there are a few places that stick out to me and fit with my living style, and I'm excited to make a trip down there to see these potential places. It's stressful, but fingers crossed that I will get my very own apartment very soon!
Many of my classmates are still going through their interview processes and it feels weird to have a job lined up because part of me wishes I could participate in the stress and frenzy that they are going through right now, but the other part of my is relieved that I have things settled. I do get to keep myself busy in other ways though.
Now that I have this job, I have begin the reality. This includes relocating all of my things and building a new life in a new place. Trying to find a place to live in another state while still going to graduate school full time and working a 20-hour assistantship and a 10-hour internship is quite difficult. I feel like I'm on craigslist during all my free time. When I'm not at work or doing homework for school, I'm perusing the site for viable (and affordable) living options. I have craigslist and googlemaps set as my homepages on Firefox because I still need to learn the area and the towns/city that surround my institution. It's so very confusing. I also feel like I've emailed about so many listings that it's hard to keep track of everything. Even more difficult is setting up appointments to visit the place. Because of my work/school schedule right now, I really cannot afford to make a trip down there to look at apartments until the weekend of May 7th, if I'm being realistic. If I really want to push myself, I can try for the weekend of April 30th, but it'd be pretty tight. Many of the places I've inquired about are asking me to call just a few days before I arrive, whenever that will be, because they cannot guarantee that what I'm looking at will be available when I can come visit. Apparently, real estate down there moves pretty quickly.
For those of you who are accepting job offers and will not be provided on-campus housing, take a tip from me and do your research! I was lucky enough to get a listing of areas from a current employee so I could narrow down my options to the safer and nicer areas to live in near the school. This really helped me in my search, and I was able to find what types of businesses are around these towns. Think about everything: laundry, gym, parks, grocery stores, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, entertainment, etc. I'm finding that there are a few places that stick out to me and fit with my living style, and I'm excited to make a trip down there to see these potential places. It's stressful, but fingers crossed that I will get my very own apartment very soon!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Real World: Job Search #15
I HAVE A JOB!
No puns. No clichés. No exaggerated metaphors in today’s post. Just very exciting news: I’ve accepted a job offer!
We’ve gotten to the point in the year where things are moving either really fast, or they are dragging out so long that you are pulling your hair in anxiety. Some schools quickly move forward with their process, while bureaucracy and institutional red tape may bog others down. My job search definitely fell in the former category. I applied for the position in the middle of March, interviewed days later at the national conference, and exactly ONE MONTH from the date of my application, I received the offer. It’s dizzying, exciting, thrilling, nerve-wracking, relieving—all rolled into one.
Besides the week at the conference, this was probably the week where the most job-related things happened. On Wednesday, still fresh from my on-campus and on an emotional high from the interviews, I found out that I did not get an on-campus with two of my Top 3 schools. I was still in the running should more positions become available, but that’s not something that I felt like I could bank on…still, I wrote back that I would stay in their candidate pool. Remaining in the pool, though, was a hard decision for one institution in particular because the other anticipated positions are not quite the same as the one that is definitely available. In that instance, I applied for the position more than for the institution. The other Top job was the opposite; I stayed in the pool for the school and not necessarily for the position.
Meanwhile, I took a good hard look at the OTHER schools, the ones that weren’t in my Top 3. There were bits and pieces about each of them that I really liked, but they didn’t have everything. I may have been a bit idealistic, but I still thought I could hold out for the job that DID have everything, the one remaining in my Top 3—which became my TOP ONE.
I didn’t have to hold out long, because the call came on Friday. I accepted on the spot. Some people may disagree with this “compulsive” decision, but you have to do what is right for you—and this was the right thing to do for me. I know I loved it there. The people, the job, the campus, the students, the location. It has everything I wanted—and more. It didn’t make sense to hold out for a possibility.
I am so beyond excited about my job! I start in June. I can’t even begin to explain the peace of mind that I have now, with graduation looming just WEEKS away. I know where I’m going, what I’m doing. The next couple of months are going to be all about figuring out the details. I’m so ready to start the next chapter of my life now!
No puns. No clichés. No exaggerated metaphors in today’s post. Just very exciting news: I’ve accepted a job offer!
We’ve gotten to the point in the year where things are moving either really fast, or they are dragging out so long that you are pulling your hair in anxiety. Some schools quickly move forward with their process, while bureaucracy and institutional red tape may bog others down. My job search definitely fell in the former category. I applied for the position in the middle of March, interviewed days later at the national conference, and exactly ONE MONTH from the date of my application, I received the offer. It’s dizzying, exciting, thrilling, nerve-wracking, relieving—all rolled into one.
Besides the week at the conference, this was probably the week where the most job-related things happened. On Wednesday, still fresh from my on-campus and on an emotional high from the interviews, I found out that I did not get an on-campus with two of my Top 3 schools. I was still in the running should more positions become available, but that’s not something that I felt like I could bank on…still, I wrote back that I would stay in their candidate pool. Remaining in the pool, though, was a hard decision for one institution in particular because the other anticipated positions are not quite the same as the one that is definitely available. In that instance, I applied for the position more than for the institution. The other Top job was the opposite; I stayed in the pool for the school and not necessarily for the position.
Meanwhile, I took a good hard look at the OTHER schools, the ones that weren’t in my Top 3. There were bits and pieces about each of them that I really liked, but they didn’t have everything. I may have been a bit idealistic, but I still thought I could hold out for the job that DID have everything, the one remaining in my Top 3—which became my TOP ONE.
I didn’t have to hold out long, because the call came on Friday. I accepted on the spot. Some people may disagree with this “compulsive” decision, but you have to do what is right for you—and this was the right thing to do for me. I know I loved it there. The people, the job, the campus, the students, the location. It has everything I wanted—and more. It didn’t make sense to hold out for a possibility.
I am so beyond excited about my job! I start in June. I can’t even begin to explain the peace of mind that I have now, with graduation looming just WEEKS away. I know where I’m going, what I’m doing. The next couple of months are going to be all about figuring out the details. I’m so ready to start the next chapter of my life now!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #15
Keeping Those Connections
I'm still in limbo, but the light is at the end of the tunnel, so to speak. The institution called me to keep me updated. The last thing is a signature from the President so I can get my official offer letter and such. So even though I'm in limbo, it was the appropriate time to begin withdrawing my names from other schools. That was probably the most difficult thing I've done since when I was selecting my graduate school.
While my job search timeline is by no means the typical, and it moved much quicker than I was expecting, I am sure that the experience will resonate with many of you who may be ready to receive offers as well. You get to meet people from all of these great institutions that you've applied to and for many of them, you may have enjoyed the interview process. But you can only choose one place right? So I just realized that that there are least 3 schools that I had to withdraw from that I enjoyed so much that the act of withdrawing was actually really difficult for me.
I asked my advisor how to gracefully handle this situation. I talked about how for these 3 schools, it was hard for me because who knows what might have happened if the circumstances were different and their timeline was quicker than what it actually is now. I liked what I saw! It's just too bad I wasn't able to pursue them more. But I made a great decision and so they deserve to know that they can focus on other candidates. My advisor suggested writing an honest email about what I enjoyed in their interviews and about the school, to keep bridging those connections. So when I wrote them, I was sure to include how difficult of decision it was for me but I appreciated their time, consideration, and really admire what they have going on.
The responses that I got back were overwhelmingly positive and flattering. They each told me they were happy to see I found a good fit, but were sad to lose one of their stronger candidates for the position. They also told me to keep in touch and look at their institutions in the future.
Bottom line: it's great if you can keep these connections. Even if these schools that you are applying to do not have that dream job now, they might in the future. So if you make a good impression, they'll remember you when the time comes along that they will have your dream job and you apply for it. Although I'm going to be working at a great school for my first job, in a few years when I eventually do all I can there and need to grow and move on...perhaps one of these other institutions that already know me will have something available. It's just not meant to be right now, but maybe we'll cross paths down the road. In such a small field, keeping those bridges and networks will help. So focus on the present and your first job, but keep your options open for the future!
I'm still in limbo, but the light is at the end of the tunnel, so to speak. The institution called me to keep me updated. The last thing is a signature from the President so I can get my official offer letter and such. So even though I'm in limbo, it was the appropriate time to begin withdrawing my names from other schools. That was probably the most difficult thing I've done since when I was selecting my graduate school.
While my job search timeline is by no means the typical, and it moved much quicker than I was expecting, I am sure that the experience will resonate with many of you who may be ready to receive offers as well. You get to meet people from all of these great institutions that you've applied to and for many of them, you may have enjoyed the interview process. But you can only choose one place right? So I just realized that that there are least 3 schools that I had to withdraw from that I enjoyed so much that the act of withdrawing was actually really difficult for me.
I asked my advisor how to gracefully handle this situation. I talked about how for these 3 schools, it was hard for me because who knows what might have happened if the circumstances were different and their timeline was quicker than what it actually is now. I liked what I saw! It's just too bad I wasn't able to pursue them more. But I made a great decision and so they deserve to know that they can focus on other candidates. My advisor suggested writing an honest email about what I enjoyed in their interviews and about the school, to keep bridging those connections. So when I wrote them, I was sure to include how difficult of decision it was for me but I appreciated their time, consideration, and really admire what they have going on.
The responses that I got back were overwhelmingly positive and flattering. They each told me they were happy to see I found a good fit, but were sad to lose one of their stronger candidates for the position. They also told me to keep in touch and look at their institutions in the future.
Bottom line: it's great if you can keep these connections. Even if these schools that you are applying to do not have that dream job now, they might in the future. So if you make a good impression, they'll remember you when the time comes along that they will have your dream job and you apply for it. Although I'm going to be working at a great school for my first job, in a few years when I eventually do all I can there and need to grow and move on...perhaps one of these other institutions that already know me will have something available. It's just not meant to be right now, but maybe we'll cross paths down the road. In such a small field, keeping those bridges and networks will help. So focus on the present and your first job, but keep your options open for the future!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Real World: Job Search #14
Fortune Cookie Wisdom
I have been fortunate enough to have some very positive interviews with several different institutions (both phone and campus visits). At the end of last week, I had a campus visit with one of my Top Three. I was pretty impressed with my visit. I loved campus, I loved the people, and I really like the position. One of the biggest draws about the institution is that they have a very strong commitment to professional development. They want their staff members to get involved in professional organizations, to write and publish their work, to collaborate with different offices across campus, and to be creative and inventive. I like that and I really love their philosophy. I hope that the campus visit was as positive of an experience for them as it was for me. I will hopefully hear from them soon…
The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far in the job search process is to try to keep my enthusiasm tempered. It’s so easy to get carried away with the idea of working at a particular school, especially if they are very receptive to you during interviews and offer positive feedback through the process. I mean, everyone likes flattery. And, I have a tendency of losing myself a bit when I try to think about my future—I get really wrapped up in one idea. But no matter how great you are, or how great you think your interview went, or how great it would be to work there—don’t discount your other options.
Last night, I had some Chinese food and at the end of the meal, I opened my fortune cookie. It said: It is better to have a hen tomorrow than an egg today.
So folks, today’s lesson is don’t count your hens before your eggs hatch. Nothing is ever a sure thing, and something (or somewhere) you kind of blew off might just be the thing that blows your mind. Keep your options and your mind open.
You only need one job.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #14
Take a seat in the waiting room.
So I'm waiting for my background check to clear at this school. When that clears, it is possible that an official offer will be around the corner. I'm in job LIMBO! I've been using that time to do more research on what I would like in an offer. I was already told what to expect for salary and it is wonderful. But money isn't everything, right? Unlike the popular rapper, Method Man, from the Wu-Tang Clan, cash does NOT rule everything around me. So I've been thinking about what else I might ask for when someone gives me an offer...
Negotiating is interesting. It's uncomfortable, but this is a big decision for all of us grad students out there. We should make sure we get the best deal we can, without being greedy of course. If I get an offer from a school, here are things I'd like to ask them, besides what the salary is:
- Professional memberships/conferences: ACPA, NASPA, NACADA... does the department pay for its employees' memberships or conference fees? If not, is there something we can work out, maybe not having to use vacation days to attend such events if I choose to pay my own way. Or do they offer enough vacation days per year already, so it wouldn't make much of a difference if I dipped into my vacation time for my own professional development? Basically, is there some kind of trade off for the lack of financial support?
- Opportunity for further education: Is tuition covered if I decided to enroll in a doctoral program that will contribute to the field? If not, do I have any other options for financial support, like scholarships or aid that I can apply for? I heard from a friend that a school they are interviewing with will not pay tuition, but instead they offer certain hours during the workdays where employees can leave the office to attend classes, without having to make it up!
- What is the office situation like for new employees? Will I have my own office or share an office? Do I inherit a computer or do they order a new one?
- Do I have to pay for a parking pass?
- Health benefits: what is required and what is optional?
Oh so many little questions. But when you get to this limbo, you might as well take the time to prepare your negotiation tactics. No matter where you are in your job search right now, eventually you'll get an offer and you'll want to be ready to ask important questions and negotiate if necessary. Why? Well, as SNL's lovable Stuart Smally would say, "You're Good Enough, You're Smart Enough, and Doggone It, People Like You!"
So I'm waiting for my background check to clear at this school. When that clears, it is possible that an official offer will be around the corner. I'm in job LIMBO! I've been using that time to do more research on what I would like in an offer. I was already told what to expect for salary and it is wonderful. But money isn't everything, right? Unlike the popular rapper, Method Man, from the Wu-Tang Clan, cash does NOT rule everything around me. So I've been thinking about what else I might ask for when someone gives me an offer...
Negotiating is interesting. It's uncomfortable, but this is a big decision for all of us grad students out there. We should make sure we get the best deal we can, without being greedy of course. If I get an offer from a school, here are things I'd like to ask them, besides what the salary is:
- Professional memberships/conferences: ACPA, NASPA, NACADA... does the department pay for its employees' memberships or conference fees? If not, is there something we can work out, maybe not having to use vacation days to attend such events if I choose to pay my own way. Or do they offer enough vacation days per year already, so it wouldn't make much of a difference if I dipped into my vacation time for my own professional development? Basically, is there some kind of trade off for the lack of financial support?
- Opportunity for further education: Is tuition covered if I decided to enroll in a doctoral program that will contribute to the field? If not, do I have any other options for financial support, like scholarships or aid that I can apply for? I heard from a friend that a school they are interviewing with will not pay tuition, but instead they offer certain hours during the workdays where employees can leave the office to attend classes, without having to make it up!
- What is the office situation like for new employees? Will I have my own office or share an office? Do I inherit a computer or do they order a new one?
- Do I have to pay for a parking pass?
- Health benefits: what is required and what is optional?
Oh so many little questions. But when you get to this limbo, you might as well take the time to prepare your negotiation tactics. No matter where you are in your job search right now, eventually you'll get an offer and you'll want to be ready to ask important questions and negotiate if necessary. Why? Well, as SNL's lovable Stuart Smally would say, "You're Good Enough, You're Smart Enough, and Doggone It, People Like You!"
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Real World: Job Search #13
Have A Little Faith
I’ll be the first to admit that I was NOT born with a silver spoon in my mouth; I’ve had to work hard for everything I’ve gotten. But no matter how hard my life has been at points, it always seems that things work out in the end. And I have to believe that things will work out this time.
I got turned down this week for a position and it has made me really realize just how different this job search is than anything I’ve ever done. I went straight from undergrad to grad school, so this is my first “job search.” It’s not like applying to be an RA or an Orientation Leader—where you are one of many being selected. In the job search, you are the ONE they are hiring. There’s a lot of competition out there, especially in the present economy.
And of course, schools have different hiring philosophies. Some will always go first to internal candidates. And that makes sense; they already know the culture of the institution, the students, and probably a bit about the job. They may be seeking a lateral move or this position may be an advancement. Other schools—well, they may want to look outside of their current group of employees. And this makes sense too; you want to bring in a new, fresh perspective.
It’s important to remember though, that there is NOTHING wrong with you. You just didn’t fit into their philosophy. You have to keep your chin up and realize that you still have a lot of options in front of you. Have a little faith that things will work out.
Having a little faith means moving on. It means knowing that there is something out there. It means that it’s gonna happen; you just have to be patient. And, well, you just might need to change the picture in your head.
I’ll be the first to admit that I was NOT born with a silver spoon in my mouth; I’ve had to work hard for everything I’ve gotten. But no matter how hard my life has been at points, it always seems that things work out in the end. And I have to believe that things will work out this time.
I got turned down this week for a position and it has made me really realize just how different this job search is than anything I’ve ever done. I went straight from undergrad to grad school, so this is my first “job search.” It’s not like applying to be an RA or an Orientation Leader—where you are one of many being selected. In the job search, you are the ONE they are hiring. There’s a lot of competition out there, especially in the present economy.
And of course, schools have different hiring philosophies. Some will always go first to internal candidates. And that makes sense; they already know the culture of the institution, the students, and probably a bit about the job. They may be seeking a lateral move or this position may be an advancement. Other schools—well, they may want to look outside of their current group of employees. And this makes sense too; you want to bring in a new, fresh perspective.
It’s important to remember though, that there is NOTHING wrong with you. You just didn’t fit into their philosophy. You have to keep your chin up and realize that you still have a lot of options in front of you. Have a little faith that things will work out.
Having a little faith means moving on. It means knowing that there is something out there. It means that it’s gonna happen; you just have to be patient. And, well, you just might need to change the picture in your head.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #13
Can You Hand Me A Paper Bag, Please? I Think I'm Hyperventilating.
Okay, okay. I admit it. I am prone to doubting myself. I get emotional sometimes. I cry easily when I'm angry, upset, scared...or even when I'm watching a touching Pixar film. I'll admit it!! I work myself up and confuse myself. I'm only human...
You're probably wondering what's made me disclose such appealing traits of mine. Well, last night I went through a freak-out for about, oh, let's say an hour and a half. I called my mother (who really wished she was in bed sleeping) to talk out my momentary craziness. I knew she couldn't give me a "right" answer, but I just needed to talk until I calmed down. I had the "Oh my gosh have I made a huge mistake?!?!" moment.
Here's what triggered it... I received an email from one of the schools I interviewed with at the conference. Now, you may recall I was doing a national search. I realize now, in hindsight of course, that my freakout really came down to one thing: it is not as appealing to move 1.5 hours away from your hometown (born-and-raised-all-your-life-hometown) for your first job in the field when you've talked it up so big that you're doing this "NATIONAL" search. There is something less thrilling and exciting about "the school next door." To continue with the dating metaphors, it's like the school far away is the "mysterious stranger" with whom you want to ride off into the country on their Harley. With THAT school, you kind of have bragging rights (for lack of a better phrase) about how you're being adventurous.
So when I received this email asking me to participate in a phone interview and then hopefully come to campus after that...I freaked. "Could I belong at [school] instead, Mom?! Did I choose too soon?! Should I have rolled the dice?!" I went on for an hour and a half. My poor mother. She is the best thing I have in this world. No matter how many times we disagree and argue, I know I can call her in the middle of the night and freak out about whether or not "this is email is a sign" that's telling me I need to move 1,767 miles away. After a while of my non-linear thought patterns and babble, she challenged me: Well if you want to go to [school] so badly, then go!
That's when I caved. It wasn't that I wanted to go to this other school so badly. I don't even know if I'd get the position--there are two more steps in their process and decisions won't be made until May. So really, I was having this giant moment of doubt over an email asking for a PHONE interview! Seems irrational right? I mean the school seems really great--I've heard nothing but praise for the institution. But what was bothering me was that I wanted to go to somewhere NEW and DIFFERENT. She reminded me that even though I'm only going 1.5 hours away from my hometown, it is still new and different! She also told me to trust my gut because that's how I've made all my hard decisions in the past and it's gotten me this far with few regrets. She also tried to come up with an adage that she couldn't quite remember, and it came out like, "Don't they always say the fish that got away always looks bigger?" I've never heard of it but it makes sense. There's always going to be that "what if" in the back of my mind no matter where I end up. But I went for this offer for a reason and I should trust that. My mom also reminded me that it's a big step in my life but it's not the job for the REST of my life. I'll have plenty of years to move to different parts of the country if I really want to.
I suppose some people could take my mom's words to be cynical--you know, the fact that she's saying it's okay if you don't stay at your first job forever because you'll want better. But it's not cynical. It's honest and down-to-earth. So often we're told about the "dream job." Find your "dream job." But what if that journey takes years? What if you do not find it for your first entry-level position? Or...what if the "dream job" is not something you find, but something you create on your own? What is that quote? "Find something you love to do and you'll never work a day in your life." What if you find yourself in a position and realize it's not perfect (is any job really "perfect?"). I suppose if you still love what you do, the good will outweigh the bad. Who knows...
So I've calmed down, wiped my tears forged from panic, and came to my senses. Why was I upset? Because I wanted the thrill of moving somewhere foreign to me and completely new. I wanted the thrill of having the right to say, "Look at me, being adventurous, starting my 'big-girl' job!" But you know what I realized? Once this offer is formalized...I can still say those things. I don't have to be two connecting flights away to be adventurous. The first job experience overall is adventure itself... no matter where you are. And there are more important things that go into choosing your first job than the glamor associated with drastic changes in geographical location.
Okay, okay. I admit it. I am prone to doubting myself. I get emotional sometimes. I cry easily when I'm angry, upset, scared...or even when I'm watching a touching Pixar film. I'll admit it!! I work myself up and confuse myself. I'm only human...
You're probably wondering what's made me disclose such appealing traits of mine. Well, last night I went through a freak-out for about, oh, let's say an hour and a half. I called my mother (who really wished she was in bed sleeping) to talk out my momentary craziness. I knew she couldn't give me a "right" answer, but I just needed to talk until I calmed down. I had the "Oh my gosh have I made a huge mistake?!?!" moment.
Here's what triggered it... I received an email from one of the schools I interviewed with at the conference. Now, you may recall I was doing a national search. I realize now, in hindsight of course, that my freakout really came down to one thing: it is not as appealing to move 1.5 hours away from your hometown (born-and-raised-all-your-life-hometown) for your first job in the field when you've talked it up so big that you're doing this "NATIONAL" search. There is something less thrilling and exciting about "the school next door." To continue with the dating metaphors, it's like the school far away is the "mysterious stranger" with whom you want to ride off into the country on their Harley. With THAT school, you kind of have bragging rights (for lack of a better phrase) about how you're being adventurous.
So when I received this email asking me to participate in a phone interview and then hopefully come to campus after that...I freaked. "Could I belong at [school] instead, Mom?! Did I choose too soon?! Should I have rolled the dice?!" I went on for an hour and a half. My poor mother. She is the best thing I have in this world. No matter how many times we disagree and argue, I know I can call her in the middle of the night and freak out about whether or not "this is email is a sign" that's telling me I need to move 1,767 miles away. After a while of my non-linear thought patterns and babble, she challenged me: Well if you want to go to [school] so badly, then go!
That's when I caved. It wasn't that I wanted to go to this other school so badly. I don't even know if I'd get the position--there are two more steps in their process and decisions won't be made until May. So really, I was having this giant moment of doubt over an email asking for a PHONE interview! Seems irrational right? I mean the school seems really great--I've heard nothing but praise for the institution. But what was bothering me was that I wanted to go to somewhere NEW and DIFFERENT. She reminded me that even though I'm only going 1.5 hours away from my hometown, it is still new and different! She also told me to trust my gut because that's how I've made all my hard decisions in the past and it's gotten me this far with few regrets. She also tried to come up with an adage that she couldn't quite remember, and it came out like, "Don't they always say the fish that got away always looks bigger?" I've never heard of it but it makes sense. There's always going to be that "what if" in the back of my mind no matter where I end up. But I went for this offer for a reason and I should trust that. My mom also reminded me that it's a big step in my life but it's not the job for the REST of my life. I'll have plenty of years to move to different parts of the country if I really want to.
I suppose some people could take my mom's words to be cynical--you know, the fact that she's saying it's okay if you don't stay at your first job forever because you'll want better. But it's not cynical. It's honest and down-to-earth. So often we're told about the "dream job." Find your "dream job." But what if that journey takes years? What if you do not find it for your first entry-level position? Or...what if the "dream job" is not something you find, but something you create on your own? What is that quote? "Find something you love to do and you'll never work a day in your life." What if you find yourself in a position and realize it's not perfect (is any job really "perfect?"). I suppose if you still love what you do, the good will outweigh the bad. Who knows...
So I've calmed down, wiped my tears forged from panic, and came to my senses. Why was I upset? Because I wanted the thrill of moving somewhere foreign to me and completely new. I wanted the thrill of having the right to say, "Look at me, being adventurous, starting my 'big-girl' job!" But you know what I realized? Once this offer is formalized...I can still say those things. I don't have to be two connecting flights away to be adventurous. The first job experience overall is adventure itself... no matter where you are. And there are more important things that go into choosing your first job than the glamor associated with drastic changes in geographical location.
Real World: Job Search #12
After the Conference (The Waiting Game)
I’ve become wedded to my Blackberry as I wait for—something. An email. A phone call. I’d be happy with a text message. I know I’m being unreasonable because all of the schools I’ve interviewed with said that they would be contacting people for on-campus interviews beginning this week or next. So I’m not out of the realm of possibility by any means; but anxiety’s reigning, nonetheless.
I do have one on campus interview (so far), about which I’m really excited. It was one of those last minute applications that I did a few days before the conference. After interviewing twice with them at the conference, my curiosity is piqued. I think that this IS someplace I could see myself working, someplace I could be happy. They have a really strong commitment to professional development, which is something that I strongly value. This school has managed to sneak into my Top Three.
The other two schools: well, one is a little behind on their process. They just closed the applicant pool and I assume are going through the applications. But no interviews, phone or other, have been offered. My TOP TOP TOP choice is the absolutely perfect position. You remember how I talked about my foot metaphorically popping? My foot SO totally popped. The interviews (both of them, so far) have gone really well. And I’m hoping that translates into an on campus interview.
I did run into an interesting situation. I was offered a phone interview, and was asked to provide some available interview times. I immediately replied, but did not hear back from my interviewer. I sent a follow up email, but still have not heard anything back…and the days passed for which they asked for my availability. Is it me?
Oh well? I might just move on…
So for now, it’s just a waiting game. We are now forty days away from graduation. I keep surprising myself when I remember that there is still school work to do. I spent a lot of time this weekend catching up with some of the reading and papers and group projects that I’ve been neglecting. I have to do SOMETHING so that I’m not obsessively checking my email every five seconds…
Here’s to hoping I will soon have some exciting news to report!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #12
::in David Bowe voice:: Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes!
So a lot has happened in the past week. I attended the national conference, thought day after day about this potential job offer (see Post #11), interviewed with three more schools, and learned a WHOLE lot. The past week has been hectic and crazy and amazing all rolled into one. The conference was amazing.
I do have some bad news though. My top school hired someone else :( I was on the phone with them during the conference to see if I could get information on where I stand. At that point, I hadn't heard a peep since my phone interview three weeks ago. I had a bad feeling, and my gut was right. When they broke the news to me, I had a mixture of emotions. I was relieved because it made the choice at hand a little easier. I was upset because I felt like it will be another few years until I can end up at that location, which I've idealized in my mind as the place I want to "settle down" in. I was embarrassed because I kept babbling on the phone, trying to pretend like I was okay. You know, it's like that "It's cool, it's cool" mantra that people repeat when they've been rejected by someone. I knew I was just repeating the same four phrases over and over to the person on the phone because I didn't know what else to say and I didn't know how to wrap up the conversation. "Thank you for letting me know. This information definitely helps me. I'm glad you were able to find someone that fits your office best. I hope our paths will cross in the near future." After everything the woman would say--the whole, "I'm glad we can give you information but I'm sorry it's not the best news"--I said those same four phrases over again. Haha, how embarrassing. You know she hung up and was like "aww, poor thing." But that's okay. It really DID help me.
My interviews at the conference went very well. The difficult thing about having an offer in your back pocket while interviewing is that you're constantly comparing. You also feel guilty--or at least I did. Like I was cheating on these interviewers with another school. I knew it was inappropriate for me to be like, "I HAVE AN OFFER" on the first interview. So when I got questions like, "Would you be available to come to campus?" I had to say yes, because technically I would be if I don't take the offer I have. I also felt bad after these interviews because I genuinely liked the people I met and I could tell they liked me. We vibed, you know? One job I knew I didn't want after we talked. It sounded too chaotic for me--I like chaos, but the responsibility seemed unmanageable. I ruled that one out, even though the person was a pleasure to speak with. The other two schools I really liked. When it came down to those positions/locations/schools, they were a little lacking compared to my offer. Although I wish I could have the experience to go visit these schools, I knew time was running out with this offer. I thought long and hard and came to a decision: I want to move forward with my offer.
I went back to the pros and cons list and made the same lists for the other two schools that I really liked from my interviews. The school with the offer had a longer pros list. I called them yesterday to tell them to put paperwork through for my background check. As long as there are no skeletons in my closet, I may have the formal "no-messing-around" deal soon.
I am nervous and excited... I have to figure out how to turn down these other schools now. They may be contacting me in the next few weeks for campus visits, so I suppose I have to contact them first. Man, it really is like the dating scene. I feel like I have to break up with these schools...
So a lot has happened in the past week. I attended the national conference, thought day after day about this potential job offer (see Post #11), interviewed with three more schools, and learned a WHOLE lot. The past week has been hectic and crazy and amazing all rolled into one. The conference was amazing.
I do have some bad news though. My top school hired someone else :( I was on the phone with them during the conference to see if I could get information on where I stand. At that point, I hadn't heard a peep since my phone interview three weeks ago. I had a bad feeling, and my gut was right. When they broke the news to me, I had a mixture of emotions. I was relieved because it made the choice at hand a little easier. I was upset because I felt like it will be another few years until I can end up at that location, which I've idealized in my mind as the place I want to "settle down" in. I was embarrassed because I kept babbling on the phone, trying to pretend like I was okay. You know, it's like that "It's cool, it's cool" mantra that people repeat when they've been rejected by someone. I knew I was just repeating the same four phrases over and over to the person on the phone because I didn't know what else to say and I didn't know how to wrap up the conversation. "Thank you for letting me know. This information definitely helps me. I'm glad you were able to find someone that fits your office best. I hope our paths will cross in the near future." After everything the woman would say--the whole, "I'm glad we can give you information but I'm sorry it's not the best news"--I said those same four phrases over again. Haha, how embarrassing. You know she hung up and was like "aww, poor thing." But that's okay. It really DID help me.
My interviews at the conference went very well. The difficult thing about having an offer in your back pocket while interviewing is that you're constantly comparing. You also feel guilty--or at least I did. Like I was cheating on these interviewers with another school. I knew it was inappropriate for me to be like, "I HAVE AN OFFER" on the first interview. So when I got questions like, "Would you be available to come to campus?" I had to say yes, because technically I would be if I don't take the offer I have. I also felt bad after these interviews because I genuinely liked the people I met and I could tell they liked me. We vibed, you know? One job I knew I didn't want after we talked. It sounded too chaotic for me--I like chaos, but the responsibility seemed unmanageable. I ruled that one out, even though the person was a pleasure to speak with. The other two schools I really liked. When it came down to those positions/locations/schools, they were a little lacking compared to my offer. Although I wish I could have the experience to go visit these schools, I knew time was running out with this offer. I thought long and hard and came to a decision: I want to move forward with my offer.
I went back to the pros and cons list and made the same lists for the other two schools that I really liked from my interviews. The school with the offer had a longer pros list. I called them yesterday to tell them to put paperwork through for my background check. As long as there are no skeletons in my closet, I may have the formal "no-messing-around" deal soon.
I am nervous and excited... I have to figure out how to turn down these other schools now. They may be contacting me in the next few weeks for campus visits, so I suppose I have to contact them first. Man, it really is like the dating scene. I feel like I have to break up with these schools...
Friday, March 26, 2010
Real World: Job Search #11
At the Conference (Interview Marathon)
Going through interviews at the conference was absolutely one of the most exhausting experiences of my life. But it was also one of the coolest experiences, too.
The first part of the experience, which I highly recommend for those going through this in the future, is the orientation. It’s helpful to know where interviews will take place, where candidates wait for their interviews, and what resources are available to candidates as they wait. Also, every conference/placement does the messaging system between employers and candidates in a different way—it’s good to know how it works! I recommend that you ask questions if you have them. If you are wondering something, chances are, someone else is too!
A word about dress code: don’t ask what you should wear to an interview. You should know this. I know several people that were interviewing candidates at the conference and one of the biggest pieces of criticism I heard was about how candidates were dressed. Business professional. A suit. You can never go wrong with black, dark blue, or gray. At the very least, a dress shirt and pants/a skirt. Don’t wear a skirt that is too short, or a shirt that shows too much. Really tight clothing is not professional. Four-inch stiletto heels are also not incredibly professional (although I made the mistake of wearing them, too). Ties are not necessary, but are a nice touch. And for the sake of avoiding a fashion faux pas, wear a belt that matches your shoes!
Another word of caution: when scheduling your interviews, leave some time in between them. Interview slots are usually 30 minutes, so give your self one interview slot to be on the safe side. Some interviews may go longer than the thirty minutes and you don’t want to be late for next interview. Also, you just might need some time to yourself for a few minutes. Go to the bathroom. Get a drink. Write a thank you card. I am a huge extrovert, but smiling so much, being “on” all the time—well, it takes a lot out of you. I just needed time to decompress between interviews.
I was surprised at the tenseness in the candidate waiting area. When some of the coordinators of the placement came to see how everyone was doing, they were like “SMILE!” One candidate said it best: “We’re saving it for the interview.” That’s the thing about placement; you really do need to be on top of your game. And don’t talk about interviewers or anything negative anywhere someone might overhear you. This includes elevators. I was amazed at some candidates who trashed a school with whom they had interviewed while there were six conference attendees in the elevator. Student Affairs is a small profession. I can assure you that someone on that elevator knew someone she was talking about. If you need to vent, do it in the hotel room. Or really far away from the conference site.
Interviewing: there was a rhythm to the madness. I’d interview, go hide out in the bathroom for a little while, write a thank you note, fill up my water bottle, read over my notes for my next interview, and then go to my next interview. Rinse. Repeat.
After my first full day of interviewing, I was absolutely exhausted. I’ve never been so tired before in my life. I wound up going back to the hotel room, taking a shower, double-checking interview times for the following day, and then going to bed—at 8pm. Granted, I had spent a large portion of time that day walking around the city, seeing the sites, doing the touristy thing. But mostly, it was the interviewing that wiped me out—mentally.
The interview process, while grueling, was a great experience. Meeting people in person, rather than interviewing over the phone, gave you a better sense of the people at the institution. You could see their body language and their reactions to your responses. And things come out in the interviews that might not come out in a phone interview—which may make you question your desire to work at the institution.
It was educational. A few things I learned: if you’re gonna go site-seeing, bring sunscreen. Pack a pair of really really comfortable shoes. Try to see as many people as you can. When some of our superstars in the field of Student Affairs are giving a talk, go. Volunteer. Don’t forget to eat. And take some time out for self and just have fun.
That last one is important. We’re fortunate enough to work in a field that is fun. We get to work with students and work FOR students. That’s the most salient take-away from the conference. Have fun. And everything else is just kinda falling into place.
Going through interviews at the conference was absolutely one of the most exhausting experiences of my life. But it was also one of the coolest experiences, too.
The first part of the experience, which I highly recommend for those going through this in the future, is the orientation. It’s helpful to know where interviews will take place, where candidates wait for their interviews, and what resources are available to candidates as they wait. Also, every conference/placement does the messaging system between employers and candidates in a different way—it’s good to know how it works! I recommend that you ask questions if you have them. If you are wondering something, chances are, someone else is too!
A word about dress code: don’t ask what you should wear to an interview. You should know this. I know several people that were interviewing candidates at the conference and one of the biggest pieces of criticism I heard was about how candidates were dressed. Business professional. A suit. You can never go wrong with black, dark blue, or gray. At the very least, a dress shirt and pants/a skirt. Don’t wear a skirt that is too short, or a shirt that shows too much. Really tight clothing is not professional. Four-inch stiletto heels are also not incredibly professional (although I made the mistake of wearing them, too). Ties are not necessary, but are a nice touch. And for the sake of avoiding a fashion faux pas, wear a belt that matches your shoes!
Another word of caution: when scheduling your interviews, leave some time in between them. Interview slots are usually 30 minutes, so give your self one interview slot to be on the safe side. Some interviews may go longer than the thirty minutes and you don’t want to be late for next interview. Also, you just might need some time to yourself for a few minutes. Go to the bathroom. Get a drink. Write a thank you card. I am a huge extrovert, but smiling so much, being “on” all the time—well, it takes a lot out of you. I just needed time to decompress between interviews.
I was surprised at the tenseness in the candidate waiting area. When some of the coordinators of the placement came to see how everyone was doing, they were like “SMILE!” One candidate said it best: “We’re saving it for the interview.” That’s the thing about placement; you really do need to be on top of your game. And don’t talk about interviewers or anything negative anywhere someone might overhear you. This includes elevators. I was amazed at some candidates who trashed a school with whom they had interviewed while there were six conference attendees in the elevator. Student Affairs is a small profession. I can assure you that someone on that elevator knew someone she was talking about. If you need to vent, do it in the hotel room. Or really far away from the conference site.
Interviewing: there was a rhythm to the madness. I’d interview, go hide out in the bathroom for a little while, write a thank you note, fill up my water bottle, read over my notes for my next interview, and then go to my next interview. Rinse. Repeat.
After my first full day of interviewing, I was absolutely exhausted. I’ve never been so tired before in my life. I wound up going back to the hotel room, taking a shower, double-checking interview times for the following day, and then going to bed—at 8pm. Granted, I had spent a large portion of time that day walking around the city, seeing the sites, doing the touristy thing. But mostly, it was the interviewing that wiped me out—mentally.
The interview process, while grueling, was a great experience. Meeting people in person, rather than interviewing over the phone, gave you a better sense of the people at the institution. You could see their body language and their reactions to your responses. And things come out in the interviews that might not come out in a phone interview—which may make you question your desire to work at the institution.
It was educational. A few things I learned: if you’re gonna go site-seeing, bring sunscreen. Pack a pair of really really comfortable shoes. Try to see as many people as you can. When some of our superstars in the field of Student Affairs are giving a talk, go. Volunteer. Don’t forget to eat. And take some time out for self and just have fun.
That last one is important. We’re fortunate enough to work in a field that is fun. We get to work with students and work FOR students. That’s the most salient take-away from the conference. Have fun. And everything else is just kinda falling into place.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Real World: Job Search #10
Before the Conference [The Art of (Not Being) Subtle]
(This is the first in a series of three where I will reflect on my conference and Placement experience)
About a week out from the conference and from interviewing, I was a little nervous. I only had four interviews. While I acknowledge the fact that I was fortunate to have ANY interviews at all, especially since I know several who are still waiting for that first one to happen, I was wondering if I was wasting my time going to the conference for these four interviews. I could have done them over the phone, after all.
But I took a look at my “Maybe I’ll Apply Here If I Have Time” list and reevaluated some of these positions. I saw something in some of them that I hadn’t before. One school in particular had an entire section dedicated to professional development in their position description. This is something that I value very much. So many of my mentors have said that you need to use your first job to prepare for your last one. I sat down and asked myself where I wanted to end up…and the answer helped me decide to apply to some of these schools on the “maybe” list.
So, four days before the conference, in one day, I applied for six jobs. But this time, it was different. Every position to which I had previously applied, I would submit my application, resume, cover letter, references, etc through their HR website or directly to the person in charge of the search committee.
This time, I forgot the subtlety. I was a lot more direct. I submitted my materials with an accompanying email saying, basically, “Hey, I’m going to be at this conference and I’d really love to interview with you while I’m there.” I knew it was risky. It was a lot more forthright. Would they go for my direct, go-getter approach?
You bet they did. Before the day was over, I had three interview offers for the conference. The next day, I got a fourth offer. And I got emails from the other two schools saying that their schedules were filled up for the conference, but would I be interested in a phone interview? Um. Yes. Thanks.
So with six more interviews added to my schedule, I was feeling pretty good going into the conference. The addition of these interviews did stress me out slightly, because now I had six more schools to research. And hours before my flight, I still hadn’t packed.
And somewhere between packing and the airport, it hit me: this is it. I’m graduating in forty-something days. I’m finding a big girl job. I’m growing up.
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