2010 Student Affairs Job Hunt

Real World: Job Search #21

2010-07-13T22:08:00.002-04:00

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.

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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!

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #25

2010-07-03T10:22:00.002-04:00

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!

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #24

2010-06-25T18:50:00.002-04:00

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*

Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #23

2010-06-15T22:50:00.004-04:00

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!

Real World: Job Search #20

2010-06-15T10:01:00.000-04:00

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 2^nd edition. New York: Springer]

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #22

2010-06-13T17:45:00.003-04:00

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!

Real World: Job Search #19

2010-06-09T13:53:00.002-04:00

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.”

Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #21

2010-06-07T18:34:00.003-04:00

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!

Real World: Job Search #18

2010-06-01T11:40:00.000-04:00

Offering Hope

It’s June 1^st. 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!

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #20

2010-05-28T21:44:00.002-04:00

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.

Real World: Job Search #17

2010-05-20T17:02:00.001-04:00

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.

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #19

2010-05-14T19:58:00.005-04:00

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")

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #18

2010-05-07T22:27:00.004-04:00

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!

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #17

2010-05-02T13:20:00.002-04:00

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.

Real World: Job Search #16

2010-05-01T09:44:00.001-04:00

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.

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #16

2010-04-23T22:17:00.003-04:00

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!

Real World: Job Search #15

2010-04-18T12:26:00.002-04:00

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!

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #15

2010-04-17T13:29:00.003-04:00

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!

Real World: Job Search #14

2010-04-12T13:06:00.001-04:00

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.

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #14

2010-04-08T19:40:00.004-04:00

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!"

Real World: Job Search #13

2010-04-03T14:00:00.001-04:00

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.

Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #13

2010-03-29T22:01:00.010-04:00

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.

Real World: Job Search #12

2010-03-29T13:27:00.001-04:00

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!

Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #12

2010-03-27T22:29:00.004-04:00

::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...

Real World: Job Search #11

2010-03-26T21:59:00.002-04:00

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.

Real World: Job Search #10

2010-03-25T10:04:00.000-04:00

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.

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #11

2010-03-19T19:12:00.005-04:00

I was SO not expecting this!

So let me ask a question. What happens when one job is moving at lightening speed while all the other jobs are moving at a jogger's pace? I am asking because I got an offer. Already. It's only mid-March, and I have a job offer.

I asked for some time to think about it because I have interviews with a few other schools in the next few days. But now I'm in this position where I can either a) accept the offer (and it's a good offer, too) or b) roll the dice and try to see if my other interviews will lead to offers. It's really made me re-assess my whole job search process and review my needs. Basically, I need to decide if this job is "the one."

Remember that campus interview I was talking about maybe two or three posts ago? The one where something was holding me back and it was the living situation. Yup, it's that school. Now this offer has me reassessing everything I said before. Again, I took my own advice and talked to people about it. Everyone is telling me that the offer sounds great, I just really need to think about whether or not I could live there. The salary they will give me changes everything because it allows me to move to a much nicer area, which will be safer for a single woman like myself. So let's see now... The job is great, it's exactly what I want. The people are great and really seem to care about helping me make the move to this new area if I decided to take the position. I can really tell they want me--from the first phone interview I could just tell they liked me. I'm not saying that to brag, it just says something about the environment. The people were very down-to-earth. They were responsive and easy to read throughout the whole process. That means a lot to me because I know now that I could work with these people. It's been one of my top choices. My other top choice, though, hasn't gotten in touch yet for a 2nd interview. So I now have to call them and ask where I stand. Even with this clarification, I'll still have a tough decision.

What if my other top choice says I made it to the 2nd round? That's great but it doesn't guarantee me the job. So what I really need to think about is compared to the offer I have, is my other top choice really good enough for me to take the risk and reject my offer? What is missing from this offer that I may get there, or vice versa? I have some decisions to make.

Part of me wants to be adventurous and roll the dice. But the more I compare jobs... the more I realize this offer really is great. Once I got past my fear of living in area I wasn't comfortable with, I was able to really analyze the pros and cons. Here are my pros for this offer:

- Close to my family. I could visit them on weekends and more often throughout the year without having to fly. Other locations I've applied to would only allow maybe 2 visits per year at most because I'd have to fly (which costs $$).
- Great staff structure. I'd like to work with people I met and the team environment of the office is really appealing.
- Medium-sized school. I've applied to a few large state schools, because that's where most of the jobs were at the time, but this school is a smaller size. I always felt like I would feel more comfortable on a smaller campus. My other top choice is a huge state school which makes me a little nervous...
- Student interaction. The job allows for a lot of student interaction and building relationships with students over time. I love that.
- The supervisor. The person who is in charge is amazingly kind. I feel as though I would really benefit from working with her.
- Great salary. I've never been easily seduced by money, but their offer really showed that they are putting their money where their mouth is and it does make a difference.

What about the cons? Hm.. the only things that I can think of are:
- The cost of living is a little high
- The crazy driving may take some getting used to
- The area may not be as green as I'd like (not many trees or much nature to admire, well at least directly near the school. If I move a little east I may get more nature and beaches even)

I'll keep ya'll posted. I'm off to a conference for the next few days and have interviews to do so I can still survey what else is out there, but I'm not sure what's going to come next. I'll either accept this position or roll the dice. It's scary to be in this position so soon! I was SO not expecting this!

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #10

2010-03-12T19:51:00.003-05:00

Let's Talk Professional Development

Okay, I need to get something off of my chest. It is so discouraging to find that an institution, a department, an office, and so on, does not support professional development or does not even have that kind of opportunity on its radar. I was at a conference for the past few days learning and chatting with great people and came to find that some of those people really had no support from their places of business, whether it be financial or moral support. I actually think I've found my "fit" with a professional organization now and I want to continue to go to those conferences (either regional or national) because I got so much out of this one professionally, and personally (yay for new friends!). Now I'm starting to wonder about some of the jobs I've spoken to who appeared to be just "so-so" on the professional development front. While staff meetings can certainly be great ways to develop as a professional, and that's what they say they do, it is no substitution for the support to go to a conference or stay up-to-date on organizational materials/resources. In addition, I love to present (a shocker for an introvert I suppose) and I want to know that my future institution will help me in some way develop presentations for my functional area. I know money is tight everywhere, but where you put it matters and says something. Talking to people who work in offices where they spend the time and the small amount of money to listen to webinars (the entire staff!) was just admirable. I want that. I want an office culture that really values the research out there and the networking that can lead to a great sharing of ideas.

So this conference was a form of my own professional development, right? Let me share what I learned. Top advice from seasoned professionals about job searching:

1) If you have the opportunity at a conference to meet someone who knows a lot of people in your functional area, be sure to stay in touch. One of the people I met apparently remembers everyone he meets, and knows everyone in the functional area. Bet your bottom dollar that I emailed him right when I got home! Great person to have on your side when looking for jobs.

2) If a job interview agenda doesn't include something you'd really want to do, ask for it! As one professional told me, "If the school doesn't give you time to talk to students or see the campus, which does happen unfortunately in our functional area, ask them. As a person who hires entry-level professionals in this area all the time, I would LOVE to hear a candidate say, 'Could you help me set up a campus tour?' or 'How could I incorporate time to talk to some students?' That says a lot about you."

3) As I have heard time and time again, and the seasoned professionals reiterated: You're interviewing the school and much as they are interviewing you. If you ask to meet with students and they are opposed to it, or don't help you with that, well, that right there may be an answer for you as to whether or not that school is for you.

4) Give the people opportunities to get to know you. What I liked about this conference was that, while it was very professional, there was a calmness in the air. It was laid-back at the same time. The professionals got to take the time to know the graduate students attending and really took that stuffy "I must be on my guard all the time to impress you" vibe out of the conference. They said that we will always worry about being professional, and we should be! But there are candidates who are good interviewers...and they want to get past that "interview mode" with graduate students and see your personality and who you really are. If you have the chance to go to dinner with them for example, do so because you can't be on your guard all the time and they want to see that guard drop down.

5) As usual, be yourself. If you are not, then you are interviewing for that job for SOMEONE ELSE and if you accept that offer, YOU won't be happy.

Maybe advice you've all heard, maybe not. But I know this: I have always included questions about professional development opportunities in my interviews and will continue to do so, because conferences like the one I just went to are so valuable in my opinion and I know now that I want to continue my involvement.

Real World: Job Search #9

2010-03-10T12:16:00.001-05:00

Spring Break…and preparing for interviews

It’s Spring Break and if you recall, I’m not going anywhere. Instead of spending money on a trip, I’m saving it all for hotel and airfare for conferences and interviews.

I may not have gone anywhere, but I am still enjoying break. I have time to do everything that I haven’t done all semester: reading for fun, watching TV, crafty projects, experimenting with recipes. My apartment has never been cleaner. I’m so incredibly relaxed and refreshed…this is exactly what I needed as the job search/interviewing phase kicks off in high gear!

I have a phone interview this week with one of my top three! Besides all of the fun stuff I’ve done, I’ve spent a pretty sizable portion of time researching the school: its mission, the departmental mission, the kinds of students who attend, the structure of student affairs, the President’s background, the surrounding city…and the list goes on. The more that I research, the more I am falling in love with it.

I’ve also started doing my research on the others with which I have interviews at the conference. I guess I’ve been pretty diverse with my choices of institutional size, location, and to some extent, even position descriptions. It’s important to go into interviews with a general idea of the institution, what it stands for, its goals and values, and the structure of the administration. Knowing all of this information helps me to figure out if the institution is a good “fit” for me personally. It also helps me to generate questions for the interview.

And I had an epiphany after my last post: apparently, I DID think that I needed to apply to more schools. On Saturday alone, I applied for six positions at five institutions. Individualized cover letters and all.

See? I’ve been productive. I’ve even done some homework. I think that sometimes, in the midst of the job search, the anticipation of the future, and all the duties and responsibilities of my assistantship, it’s been easy to forget that I’m still a student. At least for another fifty-something days. There are books to read, projects to complete, papers to write, and finals to take.

It has been so beautiful, weather-wise, that I’ve taken all of my work and just sat outside on campus for hours reading and writing. Campus has been so quiet, with most of the students gone. While I certainly miss them, I am enjoying the peace…and I’m enjoying the productivity.

I thought I’d be pretty miserable staying here (alone) in town, but I have to say…I really love this break!

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #9

2010-03-05T20:05:00.004-05:00

Nervous...

So a lot has happened in just a week. I received a call from the school I had a phone interview with and they wanted to bring me to campus. We'll call them School A. They wanted me in quick--we scheduled for two days after the request. They apologized for the short notice, but really wanted to get the candidates in asap. It wasn't an all-day affair, which was a little disappointing because I had to give myself a tour around campus and didn't get the chance to talk to students about the school. But for two hours I sat through interviews with the search committee and the deans and VPs. Everyone was so nice and it seems like a great job. But I as hopped in my car, the pride that came from the feeling that I made a great impression began to fade. Driving away from campus, I couldn't put my finger on it, but I didn't feel like my search was now over. If the school were to call me and offer me the position, I didn't know if I would accept. That made me nervous. What was holding me back?

The position? Great! The people? Friendly! The campus? Beautiful! The administration? Well, I didn't get to meet many of them, but those who I met were great and spoke highly of the vision of the president. It seems like an exciting time to be a part of the community. So, again, what was holding me back?

As I drove the few hours back to my home, I kept reflecting. I thought about my Top 5 Needs--one of which is to live in an environment that is suburban and natural. Immediately my gut tightened and I realized that was it. The school is not located in a particularly safe area and the off-campus living environment does not match my interests and lifestyle. I arrived home and went straight to my office to talk to my coworkers and supervisor. They picked up on my hesitation and pulled things out of what I was saying. Ultimately, they helped me realize that my hesitation was due to the fact that, while I may love the job, I would not love living there. If I can't go home at night and feel comfortable and happy, then I won't enjoy the job. Going back to the advice a once new-time professional said: It's still your LIFE.

Another sign came when I was asked for a phone interview with a school that was one of my top choices when I was applying for jobs a month or two ago. We'll call them School B. The more research I do on the job, the school, and the staff, the more I fall in the love with it. On top of all that, it's in a location that, for years, I have said I would eventually love to settle down in. It's my kind of area, my kind of people, my kind of climate, my kind of lifestyle. When my supervisor heard this she put me to the test: "Don't think, just answer: If School A and School B have equally great positions and both want you, which would you choose?" My answer? Without hesitation, "School B."

When my supervisor asked why I thought I said School B so quickly, I began to beam as I talked about the school and the surrounding town. She looked to my coworker and said, "Look at her face. Can you see the difference?" My coworker laughed. Apparently I know what I want, but I just need other people to point it out for me.

That's the advice I have for you, readers. If you are confused or unsure, talk to someone about it--someone in the field who has counseling knowledge and can really hear what you're saying. For example, I can't talk to my mother about my confusion because she's so concerned that I just find a job that pays me well so I don't have to worry about my next meal. But student affairs professionals get it and will listen to you. So calm down, nerves. Don't let anyone convince you that you belong somewhere. Just talk it out and have them reflect the meaning of your words. Ultimately you need to go to the place where you feel comfortable. School B is where I would feel comfortable... I just hope I get the opportunity to visit campus.

I still check available jobs to see if anything lives up to School B, but it's a hard school to top. That, alone, speaks volumes and I need to listen to that.

Real World: Job Search #8

2010-03-01T16:03:00.003-05:00

How Much Is Enough?

It is now March 1^st and I’ve been actively job searching and applying since the beginning of January. The free time I used to spend dawdling on Facebook is now reallocated to browsing job postings. I haven’t felt the need to apply for every position that I come across; instead, I’ve been focusing on the ones that piqued my interest. I had been doing pretty well; I’ve been applying for 3-4 jobs each week.

But this week, something happened. I found IT. I found the job that made my foot metaphorically pop (see Real World: Job Search #3). It’s perfect. Absolutely everything I want, except for the fact that it’s only an anticipated opening. And now, everything pales in comparison. This anticipated opening has been the only application I’ve submitted all week. After falling in love with position, I’m starting to ask myself: How much is enough?

How do I know when I’m done applying for jobs? Do you say to yourself, “Self, this is good enough. Let’s stop here” and sit and pray that you get a job out of those schools? Or do you keep looking because you never know what will pop up? Do you keep applying because what if you don’t get any of those jobs?

I know that there is no magic number when it comes to applying for jobs. Everyone is going to have his or her own goals. Everyone is looking for something different. And everyone has his or her own level of comfort in the job search process. Me? I’m sitting comfortably at about 15 applications. But I know people who have applied for 50! So how do you know how much is enough for you? How much is enough?

I posed this question to one of our faculty members and I’ve been assured that this is an age-old question. Every year, graduate students ask this question. And the answer is, there is no answer. You can apply for as many jobs as you want, but you only need one job.

Now, March is here…and it’s prime time for interviewing. Conference season is upon us. I’ve got several interviews lined up at the conference I’m attending and a few more phone interviews on the schedule, too.

So…do I stop? Or do I keep going? How much is enough?

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #8

2010-02-26T16:47:00.004-05:00

The Interviews...

TGIF, am I right? This week has been pretty crazy, but in a good way. It started off with a bang with "mock interviews" that my graduate program held for us to give us a taste of the conference placement sessions. Even though we all knew it was fake, most of us were still sweating bullets! We were interviewing with real professionals from around the state, and of course my interviewer had the highest title of them all: VP of Student Affairs. We knew we had to make good impressions because the field is so small. We took these mock interviews seriously and I gained valuable feedback--I apparently enjoy talking with my hands and demonstrating my words visually with such gestures. The feedback my interviewer gave me? Start off with a deep answer to the first question to show your interest in the position and then see how the interviewer reacts. Apparently I gave a great response to my first question (the "what made you apply for this position") that had a lot of depth and really showed who I am and why I'm here and he liked that because he says that answer is "memorable." Too bad I was so nervous I couldn't remember what I said!!

The next day, I had my first phone interview. I was told it was going to last for 30 minutes and it ended up going for an hour. I think that's a good sign... The woman who interviewed me was great because she would tell me what she liked about my responses afterward and really reinforced a lot of what I was saying, relating it to her professional experience and philosophy. We definitely jived and I could already see myself working well with her. But it's a very large staff and the position requires working in a team of 4-5 professionals so who knows who I would work with if I got the position. They'll get back to me in a week to let me know if I receive an invite to campus or not. After learning more about the position from the interviewer and her favorite aspects of the job, the school, the students, and faculty/staff/administration, I really hope I get a chance to visit campus. We'll see!

Then I got sick. My tonsils ended up looking like gross golf balls and I had to trudge through the rest of my week looking fine on the outside but feeling like I had two large protrusions on either side of my neck. Wonderful.

Also this week, I received a voicemail from another institution asking for an on-campus interview. Unfortunately, it was too short notice for me to make the proposed interview day. I had to call them and tell them I could not make it which was difficult because I do want to interview with them. But while they had me on the phone, they made it a point to say they are looking for someone who can start earlier than I am available. I don't know, I just didn't get a good vibe. I said I would like to graciously take my name out of the candidate pool so they can focus on the applicants who are readily available, but they were like "weeeellll...we're not set on the start date yet." I didn't know what else to say. It's like they were not giving me the chance but at the same time they were.... So I gave them possible dates I would be able to interview, and we'll see if they would like to schedule something. I am all for on-campus interviews because I like getting that "vibe" in person, but phone interviews are more convenient sometimes and I just felt bad having to turn down an actual on-campus interview because it didn't work with my schedule!

So I'll keep ya'll posted. If you can learn anything from my experience, it's sticking to your guns and knowing how far you are willing to go for a job. Is it worth it to drop everything you have planned for a last minute request to interview? You answer that for yourself.

Real World: Job Search #7

2010-02-20T15:29:00.000-05:00

My First Phone Interview

Yesterday, I had my first phone interview!

I would have been way more nervous about it if I hadn’t done the whole phone interview thing last year in the quest for a summer internship. I did a lot of interviews last year, but my first one was just—not that fantastic. I was sitting on the couch, on my cell phone, in my PJs and fuzzy slippers. I thought I would be relaxed because I was really comfortable. Unfortunately, comfort doesn’t always translate to “Hire me.”

This year, the stakes are a bit higher. I’m not just looking for a 3-month position. I’m looking for the next 3-5 years. At this level, phone interviews are all about weeding out candidates for on-campus interviews. So I knew I had to bump up my game. After my first phone interview for an internship last year, there were a few lessons I learned.

My Top Five Phone Interview Tips
1. Dress professionally – I know that no one is going to see you, but it helped keep me in the right mindset. Dress for success.
2. Sit in a chair – Sitting up straight helped to keep me focused on the interview and what I was being asked.
3. Gather your tools – Do you need your resume in front of you? I do; and I usually grab the position description (complete with notes and annotations), a list of questions I want to ask, and some answers to common questions (like what are your strengths and weaknesses).
4. Don’t mind the long pauses – Hopefully, they’re just writing down what you are saying, taking notes, etc. So don’t try to fill the awkward silences with rambling thoughts.
5. Keep a bottle of water at your side. This helped me to NOT ramble during the awkward pauses. I resisted the urge to speak by taking a sip of water.

So, yesterday, I decided to follow my own advice. I grabbed a water bottle, a whole bunch of papers, and sat at my desk in my office. And I think it went well. I hope it went well.

The interview lasted about an hour, and my interviewer asked me about my strengths and weaknesses, my supervisory style, experience working with diverse populations, organizational habits, and how I use student development theory in practice. You know, the usual.

There wasn’t really anything out of the ordinary. It was a pretty run-of-the-mill interview. It was a good first interview. It boosted my self-esteem a bit. And it got my feet wet, you know, before jumping into the pool at the conference in March.

We’ll see what happens!

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Being #7

2010-02-16T14:48:00.013-05:00

Silencing the Doubt To Hear What You Really Need

My class had the chance to speak to a few new professionals about their job hunt experience. When we were able to ask questions, these professionals couldn't stress enough the importance about knowing what you need and being yourself. Being myself is easy. It's too hard for me to try to be someone I'm not. I'm an introvert, an "I," so trying to be overly chatty, for example, is draining for me. I am one of those people that many extroverts probably "don't get," because I don't mind silence. But I also like being inside my own head (typical introvert, right?) so that would make sense. Point is: I can't be fake. It's too hard.

Being myself? Check. Knowing what I need? Ehhh, not so much.

I feel like deep down I must know what I need. But the fear of not having an income for an extended period of time if I cannot graduate immediately with a job frightened my brain into ignoring those needs during this job hunt at times. The good thing is that as an introvert, I enjoy reflecting about my thoughts and actions, so I can easily recognize when I've let the doubt take over. For example, I applied to a job that was a great position at a great school, but it's in a location where I know I would not enjoy living in--a BIG city. Everyone tells me how exciting city life is, how great it is for singles, how fun it is to go out and meet new people. But hello? You're talking to an introvert here!

Let's learn a little bit about my likes and dislikes (this will help me reflect later and hopefully clarify my "needs"). I mean, don't get me wrong, I am not a hermit. I like people, otherwise I wouldn't be in Student Affairs! But if you know your MBTI, and I'm sure you do, you know that introverts are prone to having small, close networks. I enjoy smaller communities and a few friends with whom I can form deep relationships (Like #1). I also enjoy smaller communities because I like the freedom of driving around and discovering quaint towns and villages (Like #2). I don't like to rely on public transportation because I feel lost and out of control (Dislike #1). I do not mind having access to a city, but honestly, the pace of city life does not match my personality! I need more solitude and more natural surroundings (Likes #3 and #4). I really love being outdoors and I love biking (Likes #5 and #6). I prefer to bike on paths or trails, and do not like biking on busy streets with crazy taxi drivers (Dislikes #2 and #3).

When considering living in a cramped apartment and making the trek to work into a HUGE city, my gut tightens up. But then my brain kicks in, getting all pushy on me, and says, "Well try it for a little while, it won't kill you!" One of those guest speakers we had offered a pretty good rebuttal to what my brain keeps telling me: "Yes it's just an entry-level position, but it's still a big part of your LIFE." She went on to say that if you aren't comfortable with the life you're living, you won't enjoy your job as much.

I feel like I need to wear one of those anti-bark shock collars that they have for dogs, except adjusted to recognize when I say things that go against my needs. A mild jolt of electricity to my neck to snap me out of making sacrifices. (Just to be clear: as a humane animal lover, I actually do not support the use of those dog collars, in case anyone was concerned about that comment). I don't WANT to sacrifice anything from my "needs list" but sometimes the doubt just gets so loud. I am going to do some soul searching this weekend instead of job searching and sit down and write a list of my Top 5 Needs to refer to when considering positions (to either apply to or accept interviews for). I obviously know that lifestyle and community are important
factors for me...so that's a start.

Oh, and by the way, I have my first phone interview scheduled! The first step in a lengthy search process for the school, but hey I will take it! I'm very excited to speak to someone at this institution and see what vibe I get, because the position sounds great and the school community is small. It's all about that "fit" though. (And in case you couldn't tell as I talk about "vibes" and "fit" I'm also a big "N"-- intuitive). We've learned a little about me today.

Real World: Job Search #6

2010-02-15T10:49:00.002-05:00

It’ll All Work Out

I’ve always hated it when people say “Don’t worry; it’ll all work out.” I guess I’m just a natural pessimist, because I DO worry and I don’t know that it will all work out. What if it doesn’t? What if something goes horribly awry and it all falls through? What if I can do something to change it, but I don’t, because I’ve been told to not worry and that it will all work out? Too many ifs…

And I hate relying on ifs. I like concrete facts. I like knowing how things are going work out. In True Colors, I’m totally not an orange. I’m not spontaneous; I’m a planner. I want to know where I’m going, how I’m getting there, and who is going with me. And unfortunately, the thing that I have learned about “working it out” is that it rarely works out the way you’ve imagined it. The reality is usually far from the ideal.

Over the summer, two of my closest friends and I decided to go to one of the national conferences together for placement. Attending is so much easier with other people because you get to split the cost of the hotel, you have company for the journey, and you have automatic confidence-boosters with you when you need it. I wanted to go with friends because I didn’t want to travel back and forth between the hotel and the conference center by myself. I wanted someone to eat meals with and go to program sessions with… you know, to experience the conference.

For various reasons, these friends ultimately decided not to go to this conference. That’s fine; it’s the right decision for them and I absolutely respect that. I’m all about the individualization and personalization of the job search process, and hey, you have to stay true to yourself and to your goals and what is going to make you the most viable candidate.

But for me, I knew that I had to go to this conference.

I went back and forth about it for more than a month. I was registered for placement and the conference. But I had no one to go with, no one to travel with, no hotel, no plane ticket—nothing. And for a while, I thought to myself that I could probably get away with NOT going to the conference. How much harder could it be to just beat the pavement and do the job search the good ol’ fashioned way: sending out resumes, calling people, using your contacts?

And then I got an interview offer at the conference. And another one. And before I knew it, I started to realize that I would be crazy for not attending. It was the right choice for me. I sat down to seriously think how I could afford to do this…. I had some caveats about attending.

If I was going alone, I wanted to stay in a hotel attached to or right next to the conference center. The problem: incredibly expensive rooms. I just didn’t want to trek back and forth between hotel and conference by myself, not knowing the city, not knowing the weather, not knowing—anything, really. And then, when you factor in airfare/travel, meals, printing resumes, buying those 3oz bottles that you can bring on a plane… well, it was going to be about 1.5 paychecks. Seriously.

There was only one way I was going to be able to afford this: sacrifice Spring Break plans.

I had amazing plans with incredible friends. But there was no way that it was going “work out” if I did both. So, all of the money that I’ve saved for that trip is now being shifted over to my “Operation: Conference Attendance” fund.

The moral of the story: It worked out. I’m going to the conference. I’m staying in the hotel I want. I bought a plane ticket. I’m interviewing at the conference. But I couldn’t have my cake and eat it, too. So, au revoir Spring Break. Yeah, maybe it was my last chance to go on Spring Break as a college student, but sometimes—well, there are more important factors to weigh. It’s the right decision for me. I want a job. And hopefully, this decision helps me to get one.

So, I guess it worked out. Sort of.

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #6

2010-02-12T20:12:00.008-05:00

On the Flip-Side of the Coin: The Waiting Game.

So the great thing about this blog is that you get two different stories. My story may not resonate with some of you readers out there, but perhaps my co-blogger's story will, or vice versa. It is always helpful to see two sides of the coin, and as of now we truly appear to be "heads" and "tails." Alas, I have not heard from any of the positions about interviews yet. So my story is THE WAITING GAME.

My area is very specific so I knew it would be a little difficult to find jobs, but I have come across some great postings so far. I think I will hit the big 1-0 over the weekend when I put in some more applications (that's 10 applications so far). I try to be optimistic, though, because this means that there actually ARE a lot of good jobs in my area out there and I have a few months until I graduate so I have time to keep applying. But it sure is hard to keep the "what if" bug from biting... What if my cover letter wasn't good enough? What if the design of my cover letters is flawed to begin with? What if my resume design is off-putting? What if they didn't get the notification that my materials were uploaded into the system? What if I made a grave spelling error? Etc..etc..etc..

Doubt. It can eat you alive. But here is how I try to get rid of the What If Bug. The other night I went through all of my files/folders for job applications on my computer. I printed out each job description, cover letter, and version of my resume that I submitted (sorry, trees!). I keep these organized by date of submission in a pretty folder titled "JOBS 2010." I have this folder in my bag just in case I get a phone call for an interview. When a majority of the job descriptions are the same for the positions you're applying to, it's hard to remember the details of each school!

This folder is a good way to review my cover letters, too. It also shows me how much I've accomplished with this hunt. It does come easier now and I can bang out a cover letter like nobody's business. Even though I get the doubts, I like my cover letters and I like my resume--my professors seem to agree, but I still can't help but wonder what these search committees think...

When the comfort of the tangible folder doesn't settle my nerves, I use logic. It takes a long time for committees to go through applications and many jobs that I applied for won't start reviewing applications until the end of February. Now, when it's mid-March and I haven't heard anything, these tricks may not keep the doubt away, but for now, it works. But you know what? It's silly to think that all of these jobs that I've applied to will want me. I am not naive. And I usually have a way of finding the right fit at the very end of the race...so maybe it will be the same for the job hunt.

The never-ending job listings really does help too. As draining as the search is, I love that there is no limit as to how many jobs you can apply to. I was talking to a friend of mine who is in his first professional job and asked him if I was overdoing it. His response? "There's no such thing in the job search." Thanks, buddy!

Now I can just keep going like the Energizer Bunny. I wonder if behind those cool sunglasses, that Bunny has incredibly bloodshot eyes, because man, my eyes are always hurting after hours of computer searches and cover letter writing....

Real World: Job Search #5

2010-02-09T15:14:00.003-05:00

…And so it begins

Over the past week or so, I’ve been sending out applications like crazy. The job listings keep appearing every day: through the different placement sites, through Higher Ed Jobs, on the Chronicle, and in different list-serv messages. And the responses are starting to roll in. I have four interviews!

I’m beginning to feel like I’ve got a decent handle on this job search thing. I had to spend some time, though, thinking about what I really wanted out of my first professional experience. And so I made two important decisions: location and position responsibilities.

There are not many parameters to my job search—but I do know that there are certain parts of the country in which I would not flourish. I know that for me, personally, there are certain parts that are entirely more appealing. For example, I would love to work in a big city, like New York or Boston or Washington, D.C.

I guess another limitation on my job search is the area—I’m pretty set on particular functional area. And there are definitely responsibilities I want associated with the position: supervising, advising, professional development, collaboration with different departments, and the opportunity to serve on different institutional committees.

…And that’s it. Those are the two biggest factors that will limit my job search. I’m fairly open to something new, despite the anxiety outlined in an earlier entry. But other than that, I just need to keep on finding jobs, keep applying for them, and keep hoping ☺

Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #5

2010-02-05T18:37:00.004-05:00

So you're done with comps...now get back to the hunt!

It's been a little over a week since I last blogged but that's because I had to put life on hold for a little bit to focus on my comprehensive exam. Now that it's over with, I felt that huge rush of accomplishment. I have a good feeling about what I submitted, but the excitement of being done with the exam faded when I realized what lay ahead of me this semester.

I must say, studying and looking back over the past two years in graduate school was a great way to prepare me for interviews. I really have learned SO much. And I had an epiphany during a group study session. I blurted out to my friend, "....it's all connected! Everything's connected!" Development theory, multicultural competency, environmental design and theory, counseling skills, group work--everything we learned about all intertwines in a fantastic way. Call me a nerd, but that is exciting to discover. It is as if I finally got the bigger picture of the field. My friends who graduated before me in this program told me when I started that it may not all make sense until well after you are done with the class. They were right. But the epiphany was still grand.

Now I feel as if I can bring so much more into my cover letters, my resume, and my interviews. I've heard people tell me that they've been asked, "What's your favorite student development theory?" Now I can confidently say that if I received that question in an interview, I'd respond, "How much time do you have, because I have so many!" (But so they wouldn't think I was avoiding the question, I'd probably talk about Phinney and Ethnic Identity Development, or moral development theory....or the beloved 7 Vectors by Chickering and Reisser.)

The comps was a wake-up call to remind me and motivate me for the job search. It reminded me of all I've learned and how I am ready to take on an entry-level position. It also motivated me to be more explicit in my application materials, connecting my education in my graduate program to my experience. While the studying and the exam were both great ways to re-energize my job search, I have to say I have been looking forward to writing cover letters this whole week. I feel like I've missed so much and the job search is still in the "fun" stage for me right now. Just today I got an envelope in the mail from a school I applied to for a job. I looked at my roommates and said, "Do you think it's a rejection letter? Couldn't they just do that via email--quick like ripping off a bandaid?" I opened it and it was simply a thank you letter from the department for my application and explained that they will begin reviewing my materials after February 22nd. Also enclosed was a more detailed description of the job and a form that I could fill out to provide them more information about me. "That's a good sign, right?" one of my roommates asked. We'll see...if I ever get an interview from that school, I'll let you all know.

Real World: Job Search #4

2010-01-29T13:17:00.002-05:00

100 Days...

Up until now, I somehow managed to convince myself that graduation was still far off and that I would be here, in my precious little grad school bubble, indefinitely. Even starting a job search, it was so simple, tricking myself. It was easy to forget that I would be leaving this school, these classes, this job. And I didn’t even want to think about leaving the people: the staff, the cohort, the professors—and most especially, the friends.

If I’m honest with myself, one of the scariest parts about graduating and finding a new job is starting all over again. I’m not a terribly huge fan of change. Yeah, finding a new job means growing professionally, and growing up, and all that jazz. But finding a new job in a new place means figuring out where to shop for groceries, or finding the location of the nearest Target, or (after trial and painful error) where to get a haircut. But it especially means not being able to call my best friend and saying, “Hey, what are you doing? Come over and watch Grey’s Anatomy with me” on a Thursday night.

Moving to a new place means going through that awkward getting-to-know-you phase again. And it means leaving a piece of me behind. Sorry; I’m waxing sentimental. This all came about because there’s this big hullabaloo on campus about the fact that there are 100 days until graduation. I started to get excited, along with everyone else. But then, it hit me. It finally hit me that I’m graduating. I’m leaving.

It’s scary that within the next 100 days, I’ll be making decisions that will shape the rest of my professional career and my life.

100 days…there are 100 more days to make an impact. 10 years from now, are the students I work with going to remember my name? Are they going to remember the cookies I baked or our inside jokes or the icebreakers I introduced? What “legacy” am I going to leave behind me?

I’ve got 100 more days to make incredible memories with my friends, to learn as much as I can, to do as much as I am able.

100 days left….how are you spending them?

Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #4

2010-01-27T20:45:00.004-05:00

My Advice to Anyone Feeling Insecure About the Job Hunt

If anyone is reading this right now and, like me, is feeling insecure about the job hunt, I thought I'd write a little bit about my own insecurities and what I do to cope.

I may only be 24 years old, but I know a lot of wise people. And wise people give the best advice. I was talking to one such wise person today about life--mainly the job search and the looming COMPS. I told the story about how I was in class the other day and we went around and talked about any exciting positions we have applied to already. The young woman who went before me applied to the same school as I did for a position...and already got a call for a phone interview and a campus visit. Everyone ooh'd and ahh'd and congratulated her. On the outside, I acted like everyone else: extremely excited for her and proud of her accomplishment. And on one hand, I was! On the inside, though, I was mortified. Completely insecure.

Here I am, about to say "I applied to [insert same school name]" but I couldn't top her. Not after she dropped the "interview callback" bomb on us! I had NOT (and still haven't) heard back yet. Originally I was going to say, "It's only been a week, but fingers crossed!" but I couldn't say that anymore because this young woman said she got called back after a week or so. I distinctly remember our professor mentioning how she was a rare example of how some schools/positions move REALLY quick in the search process, and others do not. I was embarrassed, but hid it and said my piece (and was sure to mention other places I applied, too).

So what does my wise friend tell me? He asks me if I have read his blog. He uses his blog to practice an exercise to stay positive, so to speak. He suggested I try it sometime. What's the exercise? Writing down the top 5 things that you are grateful for each day. It helps get the mind off of the negatives--the insecurities that may be weighing you down or the bad moods/bad days that you go through. Here goes. Top 5 things I am grateful for from today, January 27, 2010.
1) Support from those both near and far. When awkward things (like the story I just told you) happen to me and involve people that are near, the people that are far are always lending an ear and pushing me along. Today several of those people lent me an ear. It's nice having cross-country connections and support systems. (Who knows if any of them are reading this, but thank you!)
2) People who make a difference. I saw amazing things happen today when a group of students and student affairs professionals put together efforts to support Haiti. The amount of people who attended today's informational session was overwhelming, and just the act of showing up makes a difference because it spreads the belief that we can have an impact.
3) The kind smile of a friendly dog. This may sound silly, but I have always loved how dogs can sense humans' emotions. I was filling up my gas tank when a dog from the car on the other side of the pump wandered over to me and sniffed my leg. When I looked down and realized he (or she) was there, he (or she) gave me a dog smile that brightened my day. Sometimes dog smiles are more infectious than people smiles, and smiling sends messages to the brain that you should be happy and therefore, your mood changes for the better! Thank you, stranger dog.
4) The internet. See, without the internet, how could I blog about all this nonsense up in my brain and spread it out to the world? It's cathartic, so thank you internet (and internet readers).
5) Nightfall. With each nightfall comes the end of a day. And with the end of a day comes the rise of a NEW day. I love knowing that each night, when I go to bed, I can wake up and try to tackle life all over again. To relate this to the job hunt, I know I can wake up and search for new positions and find ones that I can and want to apply to. I am grateful for that second (and third..and fourth..and fifth...etc) chance!

I certainly feel more positive. Wise people know what they're talking about--I suggest you try that exercise.

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #3

2010-01-23T14:12:00.004-05:00

Taking the plunge!

I've done it. I submitted my first application for a job! Well...two jobs actually! And now the worry sets in. These two jobs are the at the top of my list so far. Is that bad? Should I have not submitted applications to my top choices FIRST? Should I have applied to other jobs I found that were maybe #3 or #4? No, that's silly. Why should I spend all that time preparing applications for jobs I find that are just "so-so?" I think I made the right choices. And I don't want these jobs to be "the one that got away!" I decided quickly to apply to them so I can be one of the first applicants. At least I won't have any regrets about that. So now we wait. I really just hope I get an interview.

Speaking of interviews, let's talk about what I think I can expect. I am in a little bit of a different search than most of the students in my cohort. I am not looking for residential life positions, mainly because I have no residential life experience (like, ZERO). Most of my experience (and passion) actually has to do with a blend of student affairs and academic affairs. So the jobs that are most appealing to me are the ones that are not being promoted at the national conferences like NASPA or ACPA placement exchanges. That's a little bit of a bummer because I wanted that crazy interview experience. So I think what I can look forward to are phone interviews.

I hate phone interviews. Who likes phone interviews, really? I like reading people and the energy in a room. In a face-to-face interview, you can tell if you mesh with the staff in the office. All of the non-verbals are helpful to the interview itself. Removing that piece just makes me feel awkward (it's hard to read people on the phone!). But anyway, I am looking for academic advising positions. I love academic advising so much. But I've been hearing that it isn't really an area that will, say, fly you out for an interview. Oh and did I mention I'm doing a national search? Yeah, so I've been researching the areas online because I am not sure how likely it will be to get an invitation to fly cross-country for an interview for an advising position. Fingers crossed, though, because I love meeting people face-to-face. But I'm pretty confident a phone interview is what I should be expecting at this moment... so fingers crossed for THAT first.

I guess practicing my phone interview skills is another thing to add to my "to do" list.

Into the Wild...Let the Hunt Begin #2

2010-01-19T22:17:00.002-05:00

The story about how I don't turn away from awkward situations, but instead, make them more awkward.

I think I have hit a low point in my job search (already). I just got back from the gym and from what was indeed a very awkward situation. I walked into the locker room and began gathering my belongings and such, when a older woman, in nothing but a towel, struck up a conversation. This, alone, is an uncomfortable moment for anyone who has been in a public locker room before. You think to yourself, "Is this really the best time for us to act like BFFs, stranger?" But to make matters worse in my situation, the woman was unbelievably sweet and caring! I couldn't just stop talking to her or ignore her! She was somebody's grandmother and she even reminded me of my grandmother. Maybe that resemblance was her own downfall, because as she stood in front of me in a towel that was arguably too small, I found myself pouring my heart out to her about my ups and downs with my job search. Yes. I just made this situation more awkward. Turning what was most likely a friendly, awkward conversation into a friendly, awkward therapy session with a complete (naked) stranger!

The conversation progressed quickly. It started normal enough. The exchange of pleasantries. The "Where are you from?" and "What do you do?" The "College Student Personnel, what is that?" The "Do you want to be a principal?" (You wouldn't believe how many times I have been asked that!) The "What do you want to do after you graduate?" BINGO. The magic question. Attention, locker room occupants, the can of worms has just been opened. Please exit immediately if you wish to be spared any spectator-embarrassment.

I gushed. The dream job description, the current search I have undergone, the places I am looking--nationwide. After all these weeks, I was so caught up in all of my overwhelming emotions about the job search that I never realized how much I just needed to vent to someone! It's tough going through this alone. The search itself can bring up so many insecurities. I am a very introverted person (we'll talk more about how that works in a field like student affairs another time, yeah?) and so I don't like to share my vulnerabilities or insecurities much. But I guess when there is an older, kind woman standing in front of you in a towel in a locker room...carpe diem, right?

It's nice to vent to a stranger. If they judge you or think you're crazy, what do you care? I might never see this kind woman again. Once the floodgates were open, I hardly even noticed that she dropped her towel and changed right in front of me, mid-conversation, still mmhmm-ing and really?-ing all the while. I wish I were making this up. I mean, talk about awkward! But I didn't care. She was an angel, this woman. Sent to save me from bottling up my emotions and thoughts and boy did that take a weight off of my shoulder!

So what do you think? Is this a new low in the history of job hunt stories? Maybe not, but oh I bet I will get there at some point. I have comps coming up in two weeks, so let's break out a little math, shall we?

Comps + job hunt + cover letters/resume tweaking/applications + assistantship + internship + capstone research + classes + life = ..... I'm sorry, I think I just had a mental breakdown. Check back with me next week.

Real World: Job Search #3

2010-01-19T21:28:00.001-05:00

My Litmus Test for Applying

I found there are way more jobs available than I thought, but does that mean that I have to apply to all of them? At first, I thought the answer was yes. I mean, the whole objective (or is it outcome?) of this search process is to, well, be employed at the end of it. The more options, the better. Then, I started to get a little overwhelmed.

But I had an epiphany: I came up with a solution, one simple test to figure out if I should apply for a particular school: does it pass my Litmus Test?

I started getting into this job search frenzy this weekend. I was on placement websites, Human Resources sites, and looking on studentaffairs.com, Academic 360, and on InsideHigherEd.com (all great websites, by the way). And I started collecting all of these position descriptions, organizing them in folders on my computer. I even created this crazy Excel spreadsheet, with tabs for jobs I’ve applied for, jobs I’m interested in applying for, and jobs I’m not so interested in but will keep on the list just in case.

And so I sat down and wrote my first cover letter and I realized that I couldn’t figure out why I wanted to work at this school. Sure, it seemed like a great position, but it didn’t have that—certain something—that je ne sais quoi.

[Corny pop culture reference: Have you ever seen The Princess Diaries, with Anne Hathaway? There’s this subplot line in the movie; she’s looking for the guy that, when she kisses him, makes her foot pop up off the ground like in an old romantic comedy. She can’t explain why she believes this will happen, and she certainly doesn’t know who it will happen with…but the job search is kind of like that. I want a job that is going to make my foot pop.]

But I digress… I’m staring at this perfectly decent position description, and I started thinking about what would happen if I got an interview with this school. One of the first questions they would inevitably ask, right after “So, tell us about yourself” would be some variation of “So why do you want to work at this school, for this department?” And I realized I couldn’t think of something to say. And if I couldn’t think of something to say, daydreaming in my apartment on a Sunday afternoon in January, what was I going to say in an interview in March?

Thus, my litmus test was born. If I can’t think of anything to say to the question “Why do you wanna work at this school” then I don’t apply for that position. It’s as simple as that. If it doesn’t make my foot metaphorically pop, then I move on to find the one that does. It works for me; it might not work for you. But try it. Why do you want to work at this school, in this job? Can you do it?

Real World: Job Search #2

2010-01-15T09:49:00.002-05:00

Life, Post Comps

Well, comprehensive exams are over. One day of essay writing, citing sources, and student development theory. I had been waking up in the middle night analyzing my dreams, saying “Oh that’s so Kohlberg 3” or “Wow, that was such dualistic thinking” (Kohlberg, 1976; Perry, 1970).

One of the great things I love about student affairs is the emphasis on individuation. The preparation for comps was a deeply personalized process for me and for each member of my cohort. So is the job search. Some people have started applying. Others have already had interviews.

I needed to get through comps in order to focus on the search. I’m okay with that. Because it’s MY process. I get to call the shots. (Okay, I am lying. I am mildly panicky about the fact that other people are further ahead than I am. Breathe. Breathe. Deep breath!)

Well, now….comps are over. Let the games begin.

My resume has gone through a huge overhaul. Thank you, career resource center. I have the basis of my cover letter. I am registered for a conference. I’m signed up for placement. I’ve started looking at HR websites for different schools.

That’s a good start, right?

Into the Wild...Let The Hunt Begin #1

2010-01-12T20:52:00.006-05:00

A Millennial In Midst of the Job Hunt In the Age of Technology...and Online Dating Sites?
After searching the depths of the Internet and newspapers for the perfect job that will bring me out of the world of the lowly graduate student and into the world of the new professional, I exclaimed with frustration, “There really should be a better way to do this!” We millennials are prone to having reactions like that. While I do not often like to consider myself a millennial, at times I succumb to some of the less admirable traits. My job-hunting energy drained for the day, my eyes weary from staring at a computer screen for hours, I shuffled over to my favorite chair in the living room and turned on the TV to stare at a different screen for a while. (I told you: I can resemble a millennial.)

If you turn on the TV for just a few minutes, it’s likely that you will come across some of the eHarmony commercials—you know, those caring, thoughtful Internet matchmakers who like to throw slow-motion clips of couples in love laughing, ice skating, or practicing their aim in a bowling alley. eHarmony claims to find you “The One.” It sounds so easy and so rewarding: answer some questions about yourself (fine print: pay a large sum of money) and potential “perfect” matches are delivered right to your email inbox! That’s when it hit me: Why isn’t there an eHarmony for the student affairs job hunt?

It could be called, eHigherEdandMe, or something more clever than that. Let’s think about this possibility for a minute. An online system that matches your values, interests, preferred geographic location, and all of the other things on your job checklist to all of the available jobs out there in the world of student affairs! This would be brilliant, and it would provide matches at a deeper level than those run-of-the-mill job agent results that you subscribe to, which only return suggestions from a basic keyword search. I mean, we learn about assessment techniques in our field and admit it, you could probably label a stranger an “ENTJ” using the MBTI criteria that is embedded in your brain. Don’t we owe it to ourselves to use that gift of ours to create a system that assesses our needs and wants while simultaneously easing the stress of our job search?

Okay, so maybe my millennial traits have taken this idea too far. Maybe I’m just overlooking the upside to the job hunt. I really am learning a lot by searching hundreds of postings. I am practicing how to better highlight my experiences in my resume based on job descriptions of interest and I'm learning more than I can remember about institutions nationwide.

It’s funny, though. So much of the job hunt resembles the search for love in the age of technology and online dating profiles. For example, a job description is just like looking at the “interests” section on a person’s profile. Do you like doing the same things? If so, move on to the qualifications and hiring details, which are just like the “looking for” section of a profile. Long-term relationship? The job wants you for a full-time, indefinite position! Casual dating? The job is a contracted position—have some fun for a while, then move on. Friendship? The job requires 3-5+ years experience, which you don’t have, newbie. But you can still be friends, right? Look the job up a few years down the road.

There’s nothing worse than seeing a great job description only to discover that it just wants to be friends. That happened to me last night. The job was perfect for me. It was everything I wanted, in a great geographic location, at a great institution that was just the right size, but I wasn’t enough for it. I know I’ll come across these types of postings a lot during my hunt, so I keep reminding myself that I will get there, some day. We all need to start somewhere. Maybe one day I’ll have so much experience that the perfect job that I saw last night will pop up out of nowhere, find me, and say, “Hey, you look great!” Of course by that point I hope I’ll be in a long-term committed relationship with my dream job, so I can say, “Yeah, let’s just be friends.” But I can’t get ahead of myself. First I need to find that perfect entry-level job. (And people think finding a date is tough?) I better get back to the hunt! Here I come, Student Affairs!

Real World: Job Search #1

2010-01-12T18:22:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the Real World

I'm not a terribly huge fan of reality television; I'm more of a sitcoms-kind-of girl. I like to laugh at situations, not people vying for their 15 minutes of fame. Too schadenfreude for me. But the job search is no laughing matter.

Making the decision to go to graduate school, I kept joking about how I was delaying the inevitable plunge into the Real World—which I think means that I’d have to grow up, begin a career, and pay my own bills. It’s almost two years later, and now I have no choice but to become an adult.

Admittedly, I haven't watched MTV's show, The Real World, since the Hawaii season in 1999 (yikes, does that give away my age?). But somehow that seemed most appropriate for the title of this blog. As I'm about to enter the "real world," my challenge isn't to live in a house with seven other strangers; it’s about finding a job.

And finding a job in a time of economic uncertainty is like one of those challenges that the cast members get. You know, when they were given some seed money and then had to find a job? Well, here, in MY real world: you get the training and then you have to make it happen for yourself. Sure, on the show, sometimes the cast members made it look impossible, but the jobs are there. Yeah, we live in a time when colleges are tightening the purse strings, but that just makes it all the more—thrilling, right?

Yeah, maybe I’ll rethink that when I start actually looking… So, until then:

This is the true story

Of one graduate student

Picked to blog about her job search

And all of the applications, interviews, and conferences

To find out what happens when you stop thinking like a student

And start getting real.