Jobs Applied For: 12.
Interviews Scheduled: 2 (including the grad school program which is on TUESDAY!!!)
Music Practice: Writing songs, recent stroke of inspiration :)
I am well aware that I am posting (staying in) on a Saturday night in an attempt to save money on holiday presents for family and friends. However, since it has been over 100 days since this blog began so I thought it was appropriate to track my progress for you.
Things Accomplished: I began looking for apartments, I've completed 2 new songs, I successfully took 2 GRE exams, I received a sales/marketing internship at SPIN.
GRE Scores: I will not disclose them here but let's just say that I did well enough that I don't need to retake them :)
Jobs Applied For: 179
Jobs Received: 1
As always, the numbers are very discouraging but I will keep on applying and hope that something finally sticks.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Friday, November 25, 2011
Day 105: I got them moves like Julia Child
Jobs Applied For: 9.
Interviews Scheduled: 1 (the same one)
Music Practice: Now that I have more time, I can dedicate a few more hours to this.
Happy Holidays readers! I hope your Thanksgiving was full of family, fun, turkey, pumpkin pie, and lots of wine. The list of things that I'm thankful for are as follows:
1. My family for putting up with my constant complaining about jobs, boys, life, etc.
2. My amazing friends for the same reasons listed above (and them some.)
3. An excellent thanksgiving meal.
4. The hope and anticipation for tomorrow. Knowing that something better is on the horizon for me and will show its face sooner or later.
5. The 2 jobs that I currently possess (SPINtern and babysitter extraordinaire.) While they aren't full time, they did pull me out of an awful summer and provided me with something to look forward to.
While it is disheartening to see that I've been searching for 105 days with no full time result, I still have extra time on my hands to work on certain side projects such as songwriting and music business pursuits (stay tuned for that one.) One of the easier side activities I have recently enjoyed is cooking. This is a small creative adventure that few are aware of. Growing up in a large family such as mine, I had to learn the art of cooking at the young age of 12. My parents were always working so my older sister and I were usually responsible for Friday night dinner. As I got older, my taste became more refined as did my 'mad skillz.'
Fast forward to today. As you all are more than aware, my parents went through a messy divorce. This means that for my youngest two siblings, holidays are constantly split, divided, and fought over. As for the older three (myself included) we were able to make the decision, seeing as we are all over 18. Since we spent the Jewish high holidays with my mother this year, we decided to spend Thanksgiving at my dad's house. This obviously led to bitter fighting. While yesterday went off without a hitch, I still felt bad about not spending the holiday with my mom. Which is why I'm using my 'mad cooking skillz' today to make a mini-thanksgiving tonight! On the menu, we have Arroz con Pollo (not so American but she celebrated yesterday with friends and family as well), roasted asparagus, and home made pumpkin pie made from scratch by yours truly. I can't believe that everything came out so great! I'm not going to lie by saying the the slow cooker didn't save me a ton of work today, but the pumpkin pie. Because of that, I will never buy store bought pumpkin pie again. Maybe I should just leave the music business, open my own bakery (not to toot my own horn), and call it a day. Let me take care of all of your holiday baking needs (for a small fee of course)!
And as for all of you, my wonderful readers, I hope you all have a thrifty black Friday and a magical holiday season no matter what you celebrate. Let the fun begin!
Interviews Scheduled: 1 (the same one)
Music Practice: Now that I have more time, I can dedicate a few more hours to this.
Happy Holidays readers! I hope your Thanksgiving was full of family, fun, turkey, pumpkin pie, and lots of wine. The list of things that I'm thankful for are as follows:
1. My family for putting up with my constant complaining about jobs, boys, life, etc.
2. My amazing friends for the same reasons listed above (and them some.)
3. An excellent thanksgiving meal.
4. The hope and anticipation for tomorrow. Knowing that something better is on the horizon for me and will show its face sooner or later.
5. The 2 jobs that I currently possess (SPINtern and babysitter extraordinaire.) While they aren't full time, they did pull me out of an awful summer and provided me with something to look forward to.
While it is disheartening to see that I've been searching for 105 days with no full time result, I still have extra time on my hands to work on certain side projects such as songwriting and music business pursuits (stay tuned for that one.) One of the easier side activities I have recently enjoyed is cooking. This is a small creative adventure that few are aware of. Growing up in a large family such as mine, I had to learn the art of cooking at the young age of 12. My parents were always working so my older sister and I were usually responsible for Friday night dinner. As I got older, my taste became more refined as did my 'mad skillz.'
Fast forward to today. As you all are more than aware, my parents went through a messy divorce. This means that for my youngest two siblings, holidays are constantly split, divided, and fought over. As for the older three (myself included) we were able to make the decision, seeing as we are all over 18. Since we spent the Jewish high holidays with my mother this year, we decided to spend Thanksgiving at my dad's house. This obviously led to bitter fighting. While yesterday went off without a hitch, I still felt bad about not spending the holiday with my mom. Which is why I'm using my 'mad cooking skillz' today to make a mini-thanksgiving tonight! On the menu, we have Arroz con Pollo (not so American but she celebrated yesterday with friends and family as well), roasted asparagus, and home made pumpkin pie made from scratch by yours truly. I can't believe that everything came out so great! I'm not going to lie by saying the the slow cooker didn't save me a ton of work today, but the pumpkin pie. Because of that, I will never buy store bought pumpkin pie again. Maybe I should just leave the music business, open my own bakery (not to toot my own horn), and call it a day. Let me take care of all of your holiday baking needs (for a small fee of course)!
And as for all of you, my wonderful readers, I hope you all have a thrifty black Friday and a magical holiday season no matter what you celebrate. Let the fun begin!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Day 94: I'm not Anne Hathaway last time I checked
Jobs Applied For: 5.
Interviews Scheduled: 1 (still grad school, but that isn't until December 6th)
Music Practice: 0.
You all must know at this point that I am having bad luck with employment, it's the number one reason why this blog is in existence. However, when your current job is described by family and friends as a "Devil Wears Prada" type of position, there is definitely a problem. I can't say that this particular errand was any crazier than anything else I've had to do with SPIN and since I normally find myself up to my eyeballs in data analysis on the average Monday, it was refreshing to get out. This was a bit too Anna Wintour for my liking though...
Today, I solved the question "how many SPINterns (Spin interns) does it take to pick up a passport at a foreign consulate." just in case you were curious, the answer is 2. About an hour and a half after I got to work, I was frantically approached to run to midtown and assist a fellow intern with this passport adventure. But there was a catch (there's always a catch.) I had about 30 minutes to get myself from Canal and Broadway to 42nd and 12th, a task that is not for the faint of heart. Catching the Q (a subway line for those of you who don't know) and arriving in midtown only took 10 minutes of time which meant that I was above ground just in time to catch a cross-town bus. Theoretically, that would leave me 4 minutes to find the Consulate, find my co-SPINtern, and complete the passport task. Oh if only theory was intertwined with execution on this Monday Afternoon. After waiting 8 minutes for the crosstown bus that never came, my fellow SPINtern called to inform me I had 8 minutes to get myself over there. I had 8 minutes to SPRINT from 7th avenue to 12th avenue on the most tourist packed street of the city. That is the equivalent of running 10 blocks, or a half-mile. I had my headphones, flat boots, and a heavy bag in tote so I did the only thing I could think of.
I booked it like there was no tomorrow.
8 minutes and a few side splints later, I was greeted by 2 security guards. One informed me that the Consulate was now closed (oh crap). The other said "Wait, are you the girl with the credit card?" (That's why 2 interns were needed) "Yes!" I breathlessly exclaimed as if they were the only words I could get out of my mouth. The guards stepped aside and there was my lovely SPINtern who looked very relieved to see me. We left with the passport in hand because after all, SPINterns know how to get the job done. We then proceeded to head back to the office where I ended up crunching numbers for the rest of the day, as expected.
Needless to say, this tired girl didn't go to the gym when she came home.
Interviews Scheduled: 1 (still grad school, but that isn't until December 6th)
Music Practice: 0.
You all must know at this point that I am having bad luck with employment, it's the number one reason why this blog is in existence. However, when your current job is described by family and friends as a "Devil Wears Prada" type of position, there is definitely a problem. I can't say that this particular errand was any crazier than anything else I've had to do with SPIN and since I normally find myself up to my eyeballs in data analysis on the average Monday, it was refreshing to get out. This was a bit too Anna Wintour for my liking though...
Today, I solved the question "how many SPINterns (Spin interns) does it take to pick up a passport at a foreign consulate." just in case you were curious, the answer is 2. About an hour and a half after I got to work, I was frantically approached to run to midtown and assist a fellow intern with this passport adventure. But there was a catch (there's always a catch.) I had about 30 minutes to get myself from Canal and Broadway to 42nd and 12th, a task that is not for the faint of heart. Catching the Q (a subway line for those of you who don't know) and arriving in midtown only took 10 minutes of time which meant that I was above ground just in time to catch a cross-town bus. Theoretically, that would leave me 4 minutes to find the Consulate, find my co-SPINtern, and complete the passport task. Oh if only theory was intertwined with execution on this Monday Afternoon. After waiting 8 minutes for the crosstown bus that never came, my fellow SPINtern called to inform me I had 8 minutes to get myself over there. I had 8 minutes to SPRINT from 7th avenue to 12th avenue on the most tourist packed street of the city. That is the equivalent of running 10 blocks, or a half-mile. I had my headphones, flat boots, and a heavy bag in tote so I did the only thing I could think of.
I booked it like there was no tomorrow.
8 minutes and a few side splints later, I was greeted by 2 security guards. One informed me that the Consulate was now closed (oh crap). The other said "Wait, are you the girl with the credit card?" (That's why 2 interns were needed) "Yes!" I breathlessly exclaimed as if they were the only words I could get out of my mouth. The guards stepped aside and there was my lovely SPINtern who looked very relieved to see me. We left with the passport in hand because after all, SPINterns know how to get the job done. We then proceeded to head back to the office where I ended up crunching numbers for the rest of the day, as expected.
Needless to say, this tired girl didn't go to the gym when she came home.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Day 86: Back to Life, Back to Reality.
Jobs Applied For: 14 since we last spoke.
Interviews Scheduled: 1 for a job and 1 for a Grad School program (explained below.)
Music Practice: Recording and guitar. Yes.
Readers, before I go into a long winded explanation as to why I haven't been around for the past few weeks I would like you all to take note of the update numbers listed above. Notice anything different? Is a certain category missing? Why yes, one has been in fact taken down. Would you like to know why? BECAUSE I FINISHED MY GRE WORK!!!!! 5 exclamation points were indeed necessary for that statement considering the amount of time it took to prepare for those exams. On October 25th, I officially finished those exams and you will all be very happy to know that I did pretty well on them too. The moment you finish your test is probably the most nerve wrecking moment of the entire process. When all is said and done and you finally complete the final section, the computer asks you not once, not twice, but three times if you would like to cancel your scores. The only thing going through my head during that moment was, "Wow, I couldn't have done THAT badly to initiate 3 of these prompts." And then the scores finally appeared and it was all over, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome.
With all of this said, I am finding it a little difficult to return to the social life I once had. It has nothing to do with my friends themselves, it's just more of an adjustment than I thought. I would try to explain with an anecdote of when I first began this blog but the summer of 2011 is not a period of my life that I am proud of. Between low self-esteem, broken hearts, slight depression, and unemployment, it is not a time I look back on fondly. A better way of explaining it would be to relate back to this point last year. To say that I had a very active social life would be an understatement. I catered to many many groups of friends and went out 6 out of 7 nights a week, so much that it made me sick. No, not the nauseating hangover type, but actually ill. As a result of my partying, I spent most of winter 2011 in bed with a cold/flu/strep throat/you name it. Maybe I'm afraid of going back to that or maybe it's because I spent the last 2 months contained to the 4 walls of my room but I can't seem to find the energy to get back to the same social butterfly. I hope I can find some sort of happy medium soon because this inability to readjust is beginning to cause fights between my friends and I. I'm not trying to hurt them or abandon them, I'm just trying to get my stride back.
And now, the return to EXTREME job hunting.
There are two very large opportunities that have found their way into my lap this past week. One is with SPIN. My supervisor just received a promotion so the company is looking to hire an entry level sales assistant, needless to say I put my resume in without a second thought. Last Monday, I interviewed with the publisher of the magazine and I must have dazzled him with my wit and charm (or maybe it's because I already work there) because I was granted an interview with some of the marketing staff this coming week! I feel that this is the best chance I have of breaking into the music business, almost like being in the right place at the right time.
The second opportunity is one that I neglected to share with most only because of the proximity between the last-minute application deadline and my GRE Psychology exam. A career path that has always been in the back of my mind that I have shared with very few is the possibility of becoming a teacher. When I was in college, I taught Math at a New York City public school as part of a work-study program (America Reads/America Counts.) The pay was pretty decent as far as work-study positions went and with my background of constant camp counselor-ing and music teaching, I was a shoe-in. What I thought would simply be a way for me to pay my bills in college turned into something much more. I actually didn't mind waking up at 6:30am to go to work, in fact I would say that I liked it. That is why I decided to apply to the New York City Teaching Fellows. It's this great program where you earn your masters in education while simultaneously teaching in New York city public schools as a full time teacher. I received a message from NYCTF on Friday evening informing me that they would like to schedule an interview. I was very excited by this news. I may be getting my hopes up a bit too early but this feels like the first time in a long time that I'm perfectly suited for something. I'm signing off so I can schedule a date and time for this momentous event. Maybe this could be the light at the end of my long-term unemployment tunnel...
Interviews Scheduled: 1 for a job and 1 for a Grad School program (explained below.)
Music Practice: Recording and guitar. Yes.
Readers, before I go into a long winded explanation as to why I haven't been around for the past few weeks I would like you all to take note of the update numbers listed above. Notice anything different? Is a certain category missing? Why yes, one has been in fact taken down. Would you like to know why? BECAUSE I FINISHED MY GRE WORK!!!!! 5 exclamation points were indeed necessary for that statement considering the amount of time it took to prepare for those exams. On October 25th, I officially finished those exams and you will all be very happy to know that I did pretty well on them too. The moment you finish your test is probably the most nerve wrecking moment of the entire process. When all is said and done and you finally complete the final section, the computer asks you not once, not twice, but three times if you would like to cancel your scores. The only thing going through my head during that moment was, "Wow, I couldn't have done THAT badly to initiate 3 of these prompts." And then the scores finally appeared and it was all over, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome.
With all of this said, I am finding it a little difficult to return to the social life I once had. It has nothing to do with my friends themselves, it's just more of an adjustment than I thought. I would try to explain with an anecdote of when I first began this blog but the summer of 2011 is not a period of my life that I am proud of. Between low self-esteem, broken hearts, slight depression, and unemployment, it is not a time I look back on fondly. A better way of explaining it would be to relate back to this point last year. To say that I had a very active social life would be an understatement. I catered to many many groups of friends and went out 6 out of 7 nights a week, so much that it made me sick. No, not the nauseating hangover type, but actually ill. As a result of my partying, I spent most of winter 2011 in bed with a cold/flu/strep throat/you name it. Maybe I'm afraid of going back to that or maybe it's because I spent the last 2 months contained to the 4 walls of my room but I can't seem to find the energy to get back to the same social butterfly. I hope I can find some sort of happy medium soon because this inability to readjust is beginning to cause fights between my friends and I. I'm not trying to hurt them or abandon them, I'm just trying to get my stride back.
And now, the return to EXTREME job hunting.
There are two very large opportunities that have found their way into my lap this past week. One is with SPIN. My supervisor just received a promotion so the company is looking to hire an entry level sales assistant, needless to say I put my resume in without a second thought. Last Monday, I interviewed with the publisher of the magazine and I must have dazzled him with my wit and charm (or maybe it's because I already work there) because I was granted an interview with some of the marketing staff this coming week! I feel that this is the best chance I have of breaking into the music business, almost like being in the right place at the right time.
The second opportunity is one that I neglected to share with most only because of the proximity between the last-minute application deadline and my GRE Psychology exam. A career path that has always been in the back of my mind that I have shared with very few is the possibility of becoming a teacher. When I was in college, I taught Math at a New York City public school as part of a work-study program (America Reads/America Counts.) The pay was pretty decent as far as work-study positions went and with my background of constant camp counselor-ing and music teaching, I was a shoe-in. What I thought would simply be a way for me to pay my bills in college turned into something much more. I actually didn't mind waking up at 6:30am to go to work, in fact I would say that I liked it. That is why I decided to apply to the New York City Teaching Fellows. It's this great program where you earn your masters in education while simultaneously teaching in New York city public schools as a full time teacher. I received a message from NYCTF on Friday evening informing me that they would like to schedule an interview. I was very excited by this news. I may be getting my hopes up a bit too early but this feels like the first time in a long time that I'm perfectly suited for something. I'm signing off so I can schedule a date and time for this momentous event. Maybe this could be the light at the end of my long-term unemployment tunnel...
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Day 72: The Finish Line
Jobs Applied For: 10 since we last spoke.
Interviews Scheduled: 0.
GRE Studying: Practice Exams for the General GRE
Days Until GRE (Psych): 0...conquered.
Days Until GRE (General): 2
Music Practice: 0, but I worked this crazy concert last night (story below.)
Hello friends, I have missed our little weekly chats. Up until recently, I had been quite occupied with my Psychology GRE exam as you all know. Well that exam has come and gone and it actually went pretty smoothly. However, I will not know for certain until I receive my test scores in 2 weeks. Now I'm a bit stuck. I put all my mental energy into the Psychology GRE and it's currently very difficult to focus on conquering the next exam. However, I am only a practice test or two away from the finish line so the only thing left to do is sprint towards that bright red tape.
Speaking of bright red tape, I have a lovely SPIN bracelet wrapped about my wrist from yesterday. We had a big event with Ray Ban and that little bracelet granted me access to areas that even the VIPs couldn't enter...because I was working. While I can't imagine anyone relishing the thought of slaving away on a beautiful autumn Saturday (I know I didn't), I dare to say that it was worth it. Not because of the slave labor we endured, but because I finally got a chance to speak to my other co-workers. They all definitely know my name and I think some of them may remember me on Monday at this point. What can I say, I'm opening doors and climbing up ladders...I hope. The concert ended up being the most fun I've had in a while. The Rapture played again, this was my second time seeing them perform and they have yet to disappoint me. Crystal Castles was the headliner and while that style of music isn't my cup of tea, the lead singer is a crazy performer which made it fun to watch. Half of the set consisted of stage dives. I wake up this morning with painful feet from yesterday and in desperate need of a massage, but the perks that I'm receiving from SPIN are entirely worth the work.
And now I'm off to run that final lap. I can't wait to have my life of job hunting and music making back on Tuesday evening. This is me getting mentally geared up and ready to go. Wish me luck!
Interviews Scheduled: 0.
GRE Studying: Practice Exams for the General GRE
Days Until GRE (Psych): 0...conquered.
Days Until GRE (General): 2
Music Practice: 0, but I worked this crazy concert last night (story below.)
Hello friends, I have missed our little weekly chats. Up until recently, I had been quite occupied with my Psychology GRE exam as you all know. Well that exam has come and gone and it actually went pretty smoothly. However, I will not know for certain until I receive my test scores in 2 weeks. Now I'm a bit stuck. I put all my mental energy into the Psychology GRE and it's currently very difficult to focus on conquering the next exam. However, I am only a practice test or two away from the finish line so the only thing left to do is sprint towards that bright red tape.
Speaking of bright red tape, I have a lovely SPIN bracelet wrapped about my wrist from yesterday. We had a big event with Ray Ban and that little bracelet granted me access to areas that even the VIPs couldn't enter...because I was working. While I can't imagine anyone relishing the thought of slaving away on a beautiful autumn Saturday (I know I didn't), I dare to say that it was worth it. Not because of the slave labor we endured, but because I finally got a chance to speak to my other co-workers. They all definitely know my name and I think some of them may remember me on Monday at this point. What can I say, I'm opening doors and climbing up ladders...I hope. The concert ended up being the most fun I've had in a while. The Rapture played again, this was my second time seeing them perform and they have yet to disappoint me. Crystal Castles was the headliner and while that style of music isn't my cup of tea, the lead singer is a crazy performer which made it fun to watch. Half of the set consisted of stage dives. I wake up this morning with painful feet from yesterday and in desperate need of a massage, but the perks that I'm receiving from SPIN are entirely worth the work.
And now I'm off to run that final lap. I can't wait to have my life of job hunting and music making back on Tuesday evening. This is me getting mentally geared up and ready to go. Wish me luck!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Day 58: Rome If We Want To
Jobs Applied For: 4.
Interviews Scheduled: 1.
GRE Studying: Research Design, Statistics, Tests, and Measurements (MY LAST CHAPTER!!!) And a very large verbal review for the general exam (do you remember vocab index cards?)
Days Until GRE (Psych): 6
Days Until GRE (General): 16
Music Practice: Songwriting, recording via Garage Band.
Ahhh, a quick study break during hell week to update my lovely blog! I'm more than aware that the theme that ties my most recent few entries has been complaining. The subject may range anywhere from difficulty in studying to current political and economic in justice, but frankly it's even starting to annoy me a little. I think the complaining stems a place of discontent with the entire direction my life is headed in...but we'll save that for another entry.
There is only one remedy to cure this deep discontent. I Need A Vacation.
Yes, I know, I was only in Vermont at the end of August. But the type of vacation I'm referring to is one in which I travel alone, not one that consists of babysitting my siblings. I've been thinking about what I can afford with my minuscule budget, certainly fancy caribbean islands are out of the question (no money) as are fun cross-country road trips (no car). I do have one place where I know I will be welcome but I probably should have started saving for it about two months ago (before I bought those Urban Outfitters jeans, and replaced my make-up, etc.) It is my number one spot right now nonetheless.
(Picture taken by Danny Clark)
I can always go to Ireland. My best friend took that photo, she is currently spending her semester abroad there and as far as I've heard, she is having the time of her life. Plus I have wanted to travel to Ireland ever since the 6th grade. I went through a strange phase of loving everything Irish despite coming from a Russian/Polish/Hungarian/Austrian background, I even took Irish step dancing. From the stories I've heard and the pictures I've seen, it seems like a magical place full of culture and history. Unfortunately, a round trip ticket would cost about $700, a number that I CERTAINLY cannot afford if I am trying to move anytime soon. However the upside is that would probably be my biggest expense by far. And unless if she moves there (seeing how much she enjoys it, it's a distinct possibility) when is my best friend ever going to be in Ireland again? I'm certainly going to need an 8.5 by 14 inch piece of paper because I will have a very long list of pros and cons to go through. The main question I have to answer for myself: is delaying my move to New York City worth it for a trip to Ireland? Decisions, decisions...
Interviews Scheduled: 1.
GRE Studying: Research Design, Statistics, Tests, and Measurements (MY LAST CHAPTER!!!) And a very large verbal review for the general exam (do you remember vocab index cards?)
Days Until GRE (Psych): 6
Days Until GRE (General): 16
Music Practice: Songwriting, recording via Garage Band.
Ahhh, a quick study break during hell week to update my lovely blog! I'm more than aware that the theme that ties my most recent few entries has been complaining. The subject may range anywhere from difficulty in studying to current political and economic in justice, but frankly it's even starting to annoy me a little. I think the complaining stems a place of discontent with the entire direction my life is headed in...but we'll save that for another entry.
There is only one remedy to cure this deep discontent. I Need A Vacation.
Yes, I know, I was only in Vermont at the end of August. But the type of vacation I'm referring to is one in which I travel alone, not one that consists of babysitting my siblings. I've been thinking about what I can afford with my minuscule budget, certainly fancy caribbean islands are out of the question (no money) as are fun cross-country road trips (no car). I do have one place where I know I will be welcome but I probably should have started saving for it about two months ago (before I bought those Urban Outfitters jeans, and replaced my make-up, etc.) It is my number one spot right now nonetheless.
(Picture taken by Danny Clark)
I can always go to Ireland. My best friend took that photo, she is currently spending her semester abroad there and as far as I've heard, she is having the time of her life. Plus I have wanted to travel to Ireland ever since the 6th grade. I went through a strange phase of loving everything Irish despite coming from a Russian/Polish/Hungarian/Austrian background, I even took Irish step dancing. From the stories I've heard and the pictures I've seen, it seems like a magical place full of culture and history. Unfortunately, a round trip ticket would cost about $700, a number that I CERTAINLY cannot afford if I am trying to move anytime soon. However the upside is that would probably be my biggest expense by far. And unless if she moves there (seeing how much she enjoys it, it's a distinct possibility) when is my best friend ever going to be in Ireland again? I'm certainly going to need an 8.5 by 14 inch piece of paper because I will have a very long list of pros and cons to go through. The main question I have to answer for myself: is delaying my move to New York City worth it for a trip to Ireland? Decisions, decisions...
Monday, October 3, 2011
Day 52: A Recap
Jobs Applied For: 5.
Interviews Scheduled: 1.
GRE Studying: Perception and Sensation (the bane of my existence)
Days Until GRE (Psych): 13
Days Until GRE (General): 23
Music Practice: none.
It has been over 50 days since I began this little adventure. I decided that for fun, I would go back through my old entries to see how many jobs/interviews I've had thus far. 125 applications and 19 interviews later, no full time job. This also means that 15% of the jobs I have applied for have interviewed me. Keep in mind that this began after I sent out somewhere between 200-300 resumes, so that percentage is probably lower if we are speaking about an all time record. I wonder if this should say something about how competitive my field is, or about how few jobs there really are out there. I can't thank SPIN enough for the opportunity they have given me and I love working there but unfortunately, a part time internship does not provide the stability and security of a full time job.
I didn't only transfer to New York University in 2007 because it was my dream school, but for their well known career center. I thought it would be much easier to impress potential employers if they saw that well-known university attached to my name. Now, they won't let me use their career service to find any sort of position. This is the first time I feel completely alone in my search. I'm not sure if you can sense my anger or bitterness about this through the internet, but I thought you all should know my personal statistics.
Interviews Scheduled: 1.
GRE Studying: Perception and Sensation (the bane of my existence)
Days Until GRE (Psych): 13
Days Until GRE (General): 23
Music Practice: none.
It has been over 50 days since I began this little adventure. I decided that for fun, I would go back through my old entries to see how many jobs/interviews I've had thus far. 125 applications and 19 interviews later, no full time job. This also means that 15% of the jobs I have applied for have interviewed me. Keep in mind that this began after I sent out somewhere between 200-300 resumes, so that percentage is probably lower if we are speaking about an all time record. I wonder if this should say something about how competitive my field is, or about how few jobs there really are out there. I can't thank SPIN enough for the opportunity they have given me and I love working there but unfortunately, a part time internship does not provide the stability and security of a full time job.
I didn't only transfer to New York University in 2007 because it was my dream school, but for their well known career center. I thought it would be much easier to impress potential employers if they saw that well-known university attached to my name. Now, they won't let me use their career service to find any sort of position. This is the first time I feel completely alone in my search. I'm not sure if you can sense my anger or bitterness about this through the internet, but I thought you all should know my personal statistics.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Day 48: You Say You Want A Revolution?
Jobs Applied For: 4.
Interviews Scheduled: 1 (Wooo!!!).
GRE Studying: Physiological Psychology (Brains, Nerves, etc.)
Days Until GRE (Psych): 16
Days Until GRE (General): 26
Music Practice: none.
Shana tova to my Jewish Friends! I am currently stuck in Stamford celebrating a (hopefully) sweet new year with apples, honey, and a great job interview! A company that I applied to about a month ago finally contacted me earlier this afternoon with an interview opportunity for next Wednesday. I couldn't be more excited, keep your fingers crossed for me.
When I wasn't celebrating/eating/fighting with my family, I was locked up in my room taking care of some much needed GRE prep. I'm feeling a little more confident each day but I'm not there just yet. While I was on a study break though, I was browsing through my facebook feed when a very interesting link caught my attention, http://wearethe99percent.tumblr.com/ I encourage you all to sift through these heartbreaking stories to get an idea of what America looks like today.
While I am not a fan of the occupy wall street protest (note: it looks really hypocritical when you are on your iPhone while protesting Corporate America), the stories sounded all to familiar. No job, no insurance, oodles and oodles of student debt, and an unbelievable amount of financial pressure are the common characteristics; ones that I am currently facing myself. Maybe this is setting the stage for some sort of much needed financial/political/social revolution, obviously the system isn't working well for us right now. Political reform isn't doing anything because the two sides can't seem to agree or compromise while conditions for the average American continue to deteriorate. The fact is that I am part of the 99%, this blog only supports that notion. If there are so many of us compared to the very rich and powerful 1%, then something is bound to happen soon. Thomas Jefferson once said, "When people fear their government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty." I have always believed that power lies in numbers and if this 99% becomes angry enough, then change is bound to happen. I think we're on the brink of something big. I don't know if its for the better or the worse at this time, but change needs to happen.
Interviews Scheduled: 1 (Wooo!!!).
GRE Studying: Physiological Psychology (Brains, Nerves, etc.)
Days Until GRE (Psych): 16
Days Until GRE (General): 26
Music Practice: none.
Shana tova to my Jewish Friends! I am currently stuck in Stamford celebrating a (hopefully) sweet new year with apples, honey, and a great job interview! A company that I applied to about a month ago finally contacted me earlier this afternoon with an interview opportunity for next Wednesday. I couldn't be more excited, keep your fingers crossed for me.
When I wasn't celebrating/eating/fighting with my family, I was locked up in my room taking care of some much needed GRE prep. I'm feeling a little more confident each day but I'm not there just yet. While I was on a study break though, I was browsing through my facebook feed when a very interesting link caught my attention, http://wearethe99percent.tumblr.com/ I encourage you all to sift through these heartbreaking stories to get an idea of what America looks like today.
While I am not a fan of the occupy wall street protest (note: it looks really hypocritical when you are on your iPhone while protesting Corporate America), the stories sounded all to familiar. No job, no insurance, oodles and oodles of student debt, and an unbelievable amount of financial pressure are the common characteristics; ones that I am currently facing myself. Maybe this is setting the stage for some sort of much needed financial/political/social revolution, obviously the system isn't working well for us right now. Political reform isn't doing anything because the two sides can't seem to agree or compromise while conditions for the average American continue to deteriorate. The fact is that I am part of the 99%, this blog only supports that notion. If there are so many of us compared to the very rich and powerful 1%, then something is bound to happen soon. Thomas Jefferson once said, "When people fear their government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty." I have always believed that power lies in numbers and if this 99% becomes angry enough, then change is bound to happen. I think we're on the brink of something big. I don't know if its for the better or the worse at this time, but change needs to happen.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Day 44: This is A LOT More Difficult Than I Remember
Jobs Applied For: 8.
Interviews Scheduled: 0.
GRE Studying: Abnormal Psychology, my favorite.
Days Until GRE (Psych): 20
Days Until GRE (General): 30
Music Practice: Lots of Songwriting, Lots of inspiration. Taylor Swift doesn't have anything on me.
Wow, they weren't kidding when they told me that it's really difficult to get back into studying after college. As you can see by my new count-downs, the GREs are quickly approaching and to say that my test anxiety is at a high would be an understatement. I'm taking the necessary precautions such as no partying, no distracting people (this one isn't working out so well), and many vitamins. Of course I understand that it's impossible for me to study 24/7 (I do have a part time position after all), however I have been feeling as if there aren't enough hours in the dat lately. I find that my stress level decreases if I hit the books for at least 3 hours a day, so sticking to this method for the next three weeks is absolutely essential for success. I can't wait until this is over and the most important thing to worry about will be getting out of Connecticut.
With all of that said, this past week was the busiest I have experienced in quite some time. SPIN is wonderful but there is more than enough work in that office to keep this girl on her toes. We had a large event at the office this week called SPIN House Live! It was essentially a roof top party with about 300 VIPs/Press/Hipsters/Fashionistas/Fellow music junkies along with the band "The Rapture" (they put on a great show, I'm listening to "In The Grace Of Your Love " right now.) I got to play bar-back during the first hour and work the door as everyone was leaving. It was overall an enjoyable experience.
I have found that being around all of this music has inspired me to write more of my own. I have been touching up a few of my old songs as well as writing a few new ones. There are currently six that I would feel comfortable performing...if only I had a rock band. I have decided that after my exams, I'm going to finally put this macbook pro to work and begin recording. If I have a decent demo with enough of a back up chord structure in my tunes, I can send it over to one of my many talented, guitar playing friends to fill in the blanks. I want to begin performing again and this is the only way I can see myself going about it. Anyways, it's time to get myself out of this Starbucks and back home to feed my insatiable mind with the knowledge that it craves (...right.) I wish I could play in the sun.
Interviews Scheduled: 0.
GRE Studying: Abnormal Psychology, my favorite.
Days Until GRE (Psych): 20
Days Until GRE (General): 30
Music Practice: Lots of Songwriting, Lots of inspiration. Taylor Swift doesn't have anything on me.
Wow, they weren't kidding when they told me that it's really difficult to get back into studying after college. As you can see by my new count-downs, the GREs are quickly approaching and to say that my test anxiety is at a high would be an understatement. I'm taking the necessary precautions such as no partying, no distracting people (this one isn't working out so well), and many vitamins. Of course I understand that it's impossible for me to study 24/7 (I do have a part time position after all), however I have been feeling as if there aren't enough hours in the dat lately. I find that my stress level decreases if I hit the books for at least 3 hours a day, so sticking to this method for the next three weeks is absolutely essential for success. I can't wait until this is over and the most important thing to worry about will be getting out of Connecticut.
With all of that said, this past week was the busiest I have experienced in quite some time. SPIN is wonderful but there is more than enough work in that office to keep this girl on her toes. We had a large event at the office this week called SPIN House Live! It was essentially a roof top party with about 300 VIPs/Press/Hipsters/Fashionistas/Fellow music junkies along with the band "The Rapture" (they put on a great show, I'm listening to "In The Grace Of Your Love " right now.) I got to play bar-back during the first hour and work the door as everyone was leaving. It was overall an enjoyable experience.
I have found that being around all of this music has inspired me to write more of my own. I have been touching up a few of my old songs as well as writing a few new ones. There are currently six that I would feel comfortable performing...if only I had a rock band. I have decided that after my exams, I'm going to finally put this macbook pro to work and begin recording. If I have a decent demo with enough of a back up chord structure in my tunes, I can send it over to one of my many talented, guitar playing friends to fill in the blanks. I want to begin performing again and this is the only way I can see myself going about it. Anyways, it's time to get myself out of this Starbucks and back home to feed my insatiable mind with the knowledge that it craves (...right.) I wish I could play in the sun.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Day 37: A Trip Down Memory Lane
Jobs Applied For: 3.
Interviews Scheduled: 0, but I had a phone interview on Friday.
GRE Studying: Just began developmental psychology, taking a break to catch up with General GRE.
Music Practice: A bit of keys.
There has been a lot of talk about the weather lately, New Yorkers are beginning to say that it's getting too cold. I personally don't see what the big deal is, to me this feels like Vermont so I really can't complain. Autumn is nipping at the heels of the Northeast which means change is going to happen. Although I will always be a summer child stubbornly set in that way, I welcome this change. After sitting in Stamford all season attempting to cure my case of unemployment, I NEED something exciting and fresh to happen. As you all read in my previous entry, this season is already impacting my life for the better. I just finished my first week with SPIN and I'm loving it there. So far, I've sat in on meeting, taken part in great research projects, and I am proud to say that I am working my first even next week! But while I firmly stated in my "mission statement" that this particular journal is dedicated to my next 5 year plan, I'd like to dive into my past for a bit.
I've been feeling a bit nostalgic lately. I guess that is a side effect of mending past broken hearts of the summer / watching my best friend temporarily move to a different country / renewing a connection with an old friend who I hadn't seen in 8 years prior to last month. You could say that I've had a few things on my mind, socially speaking. However, I haven't been wishing to go back or change the past. I've been thinking about my former blog lives and how I'm going to make this one more successful than the others. Many people don't know this but I have been blogging since before it was cool, since the ripe age of 14. At that age, English was essentially a second language to me the first being "American Teenager." I decided that keeping an online journal would help me rectify that problem and I signed up for a blank canvas account with Xanga. I wrote about my experiences in a new high school and blending in to the point of invisibility. While I learned how to fidget with the HTML settings and designed my page into teenage dream oblivion, the project was an epic failure complete with no grammar whatsoever and spelling errors galore. I looked back at it this weekend and I could barely understand what I was talking about.
Then came my LiveJournal phase. As my teenage dream turned into emotional angst, I attempted a second journal. One in which I could vent about anyone who was making me angry at the time. I updated the Xanga from time to time but this LiveJournal became my primary outlet of high school frustration. Keep in mind that these blogs began before the time of Facebook, it was when MySpace was only beginning to emerge as a social media outlet. I certainly said things on that blog that got me in big trouble with friends and boyfriends at the time, but I didn't care. I was 16 (or 17, or 18), self-conscious, and really really angry. No one wanted to listen to me so I took it out on the internet. I also deem that blog project as a complete failure. Not because of how disgusting personal and sad it became, but because of how superficial it turned out to be.
The third account, a blog spot account, was very short lived. I began this one during the second half of my college career and attempted to make it about how I was a hot shot NYU student trying to make it in the music scene (sound familiar?). I spent so much energy trying to actually make that career happen that I never really had the time to write in it. Updates became as sparse as once every 6 months, thus another failure.
And that brings me to the present, and my time spent with Trapped In Transition. The reason this has been working for me so far is because its about reality. It's not about teenage angst, boy problems, or big unachievable dreams. It's about a relatable position, a situation, and most importantly it's about ambition. So many people around the country are experiencing what I'm going through now and I am so pleased that I can provide you all with my silly stories and adventures about how I am making a shitty situation work. But this brings me to one question I've been trying to answer all summer. What sets me apart from everyone else?
Each of my former blogs had a personal signature at the end of every entry. I won't write what they are here because I don't want you to search for any of these former blogs. I wouldn't want to subject the awful writing, anger, or wishful thinking upon anyone. Following in tradition though, I would like to find a personal signature to add to every piece I write. Whether it's witty, silly, or serious, I'd like to put a personal stamp on it. I want to have fun with this little creative exercise, I would like to open up the floor to my readers for any suggestions on this matter. You can leave it to me on Facebook or in a comment below.
Do you have any ideas?
Interviews Scheduled: 0, but I had a phone interview on Friday.
GRE Studying: Just began developmental psychology, taking a break to catch up with General GRE.
Music Practice: A bit of keys.
There has been a lot of talk about the weather lately, New Yorkers are beginning to say that it's getting too cold. I personally don't see what the big deal is, to me this feels like Vermont so I really can't complain. Autumn is nipping at the heels of the Northeast which means change is going to happen. Although I will always be a summer child stubbornly set in that way, I welcome this change. After sitting in Stamford all season attempting to cure my case of unemployment, I NEED something exciting and fresh to happen. As you all read in my previous entry, this season is already impacting my life for the better. I just finished my first week with SPIN and I'm loving it there. So far, I've sat in on meeting, taken part in great research projects, and I am proud to say that I am working my first even next week! But while I firmly stated in my "mission statement" that this particular journal is dedicated to my next 5 year plan, I'd like to dive into my past for a bit.
I've been feeling a bit nostalgic lately. I guess that is a side effect of mending past broken hearts of the summer / watching my best friend temporarily move to a different country / renewing a connection with an old friend who I hadn't seen in 8 years prior to last month. You could say that I've had a few things on my mind, socially speaking. However, I haven't been wishing to go back or change the past. I've been thinking about my former blog lives and how I'm going to make this one more successful than the others. Many people don't know this but I have been blogging since before it was cool, since the ripe age of 14. At that age, English was essentially a second language to me the first being "American Teenager." I decided that keeping an online journal would help me rectify that problem and I signed up for a blank canvas account with Xanga. I wrote about my experiences in a new high school and blending in to the point of invisibility. While I learned how to fidget with the HTML settings and designed my page into teenage dream oblivion, the project was an epic failure complete with no grammar whatsoever and spelling errors galore. I looked back at it this weekend and I could barely understand what I was talking about.
Then came my LiveJournal phase. As my teenage dream turned into emotional angst, I attempted a second journal. One in which I could vent about anyone who was making me angry at the time. I updated the Xanga from time to time but this LiveJournal became my primary outlet of high school frustration. Keep in mind that these blogs began before the time of Facebook, it was when MySpace was only beginning to emerge as a social media outlet. I certainly said things on that blog that got me in big trouble with friends and boyfriends at the time, but I didn't care. I was 16 (or 17, or 18), self-conscious, and really really angry. No one wanted to listen to me so I took it out on the internet. I also deem that blog project as a complete failure. Not because of how disgusting personal and sad it became, but because of how superficial it turned out to be.
The third account, a blog spot account, was very short lived. I began this one during the second half of my college career and attempted to make it about how I was a hot shot NYU student trying to make it in the music scene (sound familiar?). I spent so much energy trying to actually make that career happen that I never really had the time to write in it. Updates became as sparse as once every 6 months, thus another failure.
And that brings me to the present, and my time spent with Trapped In Transition. The reason this has been working for me so far is because its about reality. It's not about teenage angst, boy problems, or big unachievable dreams. It's about a relatable position, a situation, and most importantly it's about ambition. So many people around the country are experiencing what I'm going through now and I am so pleased that I can provide you all with my silly stories and adventures about how I am making a shitty situation work. But this brings me to one question I've been trying to answer all summer. What sets me apart from everyone else?
Each of my former blogs had a personal signature at the end of every entry. I won't write what they are here because I don't want you to search for any of these former blogs. I wouldn't want to subject the awful writing, anger, or wishful thinking upon anyone. Following in tradition though, I would like to find a personal signature to add to every piece I write. Whether it's witty, silly, or serious, I'd like to put a personal stamp on it. I want to have fun with this little creative exercise, I would like to open up the floor to my readers for any suggestions on this matter. You can leave it to me on Facebook or in a comment below.
Do you have any ideas?
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Day 31: So Never Stop, Just Spin
Jobs Applied For: 5.
Interviews Scheduled: 0, See Below.
GRE Studying: Lots of Psychology, this unit is taking forever.
Music Practice: 0, See Below.
One of my favorite contemporary songwriters, Andrew McMahon (front man of Something Corporate and Jack's Mannequin) once sang, "So you've been knocked and you've been thrown, and you've run all the way back home, saying you were searching for a reason." I had been able to relate to those lyrics this entire summer. Every rejected job application felt like a punch in the stomach, each as blunt as the one before. I would always try to mentally justify that the job wasn't meant for me, or that I wouldn't have enjoyed it. But that wouldn't make up for the fact that I still wasn't working. After I returned from Vermont, I began to apply for positions that weren't the standard full time, 9-5, stuck-in-a-cubicle kinds of jobs. And once I opened myself up for different hours, I struck gold. As of last Friday afternoon, I am officially in part time sales and marketing at SPIN Magazine.
Before we begin to celebrate, let me just say that this isn't enough of a position to allow me to up and move to New York. It is technically an internship, but it is a paid one with a well known name in the music business. With that said, I am really really enjoying my time there so far. It has only been two days (the 3rd being tomorrow) and I've worked on a fun project and I'm already helping at an event next week! It's a laid back environment with friendly people who have similar interests to me. I consider this new experience to be a foot in the door. Something to get myself back in the game with. I'm sure there will be some fun and crazy stories from this position (I did sign a confidentiality agreement so I won't be giving away any company secrets). Obviously if a more stable position floats my way I won't completely reject the idea of it. However, I'm in love with SPIN so far. I think I'm going to like it here.
Interviews Scheduled: 0, See Below.
GRE Studying: Lots of Psychology, this unit is taking forever.
Music Practice: 0, See Below.
One of my favorite contemporary songwriters, Andrew McMahon (front man of Something Corporate and Jack's Mannequin) once sang, "So you've been knocked and you've been thrown, and you've run all the way back home, saying you were searching for a reason." I had been able to relate to those lyrics this entire summer. Every rejected job application felt like a punch in the stomach, each as blunt as the one before. I would always try to mentally justify that the job wasn't meant for me, or that I wouldn't have enjoyed it. But that wouldn't make up for the fact that I still wasn't working. After I returned from Vermont, I began to apply for positions that weren't the standard full time, 9-5, stuck-in-a-cubicle kinds of jobs. And once I opened myself up for different hours, I struck gold. As of last Friday afternoon, I am officially in part time sales and marketing at SPIN Magazine.
Before we begin to celebrate, let me just say that this isn't enough of a position to allow me to up and move to New York. It is technically an internship, but it is a paid one with a well known name in the music business. With that said, I am really really enjoying my time there so far. It has only been two days (the 3rd being tomorrow) and I've worked on a fun project and I'm already helping at an event next week! It's a laid back environment with friendly people who have similar interests to me. I consider this new experience to be a foot in the door. Something to get myself back in the game with. I'm sure there will be some fun and crazy stories from this position (I did sign a confidentiality agreement so I won't be giving away any company secrets). Obviously if a more stable position floats my way I won't completely reject the idea of it. However, I'm in love with SPIN so far. I think I'm going to like it here.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Day 26: Connectivity in New York City
Jobs Applied For: Too many to count.
Interviews Scheduled: 2, just had one about an hour ago.
GRE Studying: Social Psychology review, prosocial behavior, empathy, and conformity.
Music Practice: 1 hour of guitar.
Before I begin to vent about my unemployment troubles, I just wanted to let you all know that I'm currently blogging from Bryant Park. How cool is that????? God bless free wifi. I have discovered that the ultimate locations for free connectivity in New York are city parks. There's nothing like enjoying the last glorious days of summer by blogging underneath a cloudless sky. However, if you were drowning in endless monsoon like all of us in the northeast were in the beginning of this week, there is always Starbucks.
This week is the first week I have felt like a useful part of society in a long time. A family I babysat for in college is currently keeping me busy by running their kids up and down the west side. I've known them for so long at this point that I feel like I'm an older sibling to those boys and I certainly can't complain because I'm getting paid today. Unfortunately, every single cent of that is going towards credit card bills. Oh the life of the fabulously unemployed.
This morning, I took a very large step in the right direction. I met with a staffing and recruitment firm. I attempted to apply to a few head hunters/temp agencies/recruitment centers in the past but alas, no response. The woman who I met with helped me tremendously by providing me with the honest job advice that I am constantly searching for (like reformatting my resume.) I have one more interview with a small music licensing company this afternoon so here's to hoping that pans out just as well. I'm longing off to conduct my morning job search but my one request for you today is to get outside. It's the nicest day we've had all week and I promise you that your work will still be there waiting for you after you take a much needed 10 minute break. Have a great day!
Interviews Scheduled: 2, just had one about an hour ago.
GRE Studying: Social Psychology review, prosocial behavior, empathy, and conformity.
Music Practice: 1 hour of guitar.
Before I begin to vent about my unemployment troubles, I just wanted to let you all know that I'm currently blogging from Bryant Park. How cool is that????? God bless free wifi. I have discovered that the ultimate locations for free connectivity in New York are city parks. There's nothing like enjoying the last glorious days of summer by blogging underneath a cloudless sky. However, if you were drowning in endless monsoon like all of us in the northeast were in the beginning of this week, there is always Starbucks.
This week is the first week I have felt like a useful part of society in a long time. A family I babysat for in college is currently keeping me busy by running their kids up and down the west side. I've known them for so long at this point that I feel like I'm an older sibling to those boys and I certainly can't complain because I'm getting paid today. Unfortunately, every single cent of that is going towards credit card bills. Oh the life of the fabulously unemployed.
This morning, I took a very large step in the right direction. I met with a staffing and recruitment firm. I attempted to apply to a few head hunters/temp agencies/recruitment centers in the past but alas, no response. The woman who I met with helped me tremendously by providing me with the honest job advice that I am constantly searching for (like reformatting my resume.) I have one more interview with a small music licensing company this afternoon so here's to hoping that pans out just as well. I'm longing off to conduct my morning job search but my one request for you today is to get outside. It's the nicest day we've had all week and I promise you that your work will still be there waiting for you after you take a much needed 10 minute break. Have a great day!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Day 22: Good intentions at a Jewish family gathering
Jobs Applied For: 15.
Interviews Scheduled: 2, waiting to hear back from a sick music internship.
GRE Studying: Social Psychology review, Persuasion and Affiliation/Attraction.
Music Practice: Nada.
It is always a challenge to get anything done on a three day weekend. Throw in a fight with mom, a HUGE family bar mitzvah, and the fact that it's unofficially the last weekend of summer 2011 and you have a formula for no minor accomplishments over the past few days. I managed to study for about 3 hours this morning and apply for 15 jobs on Thursday the 1st, but that's about it.
There is something to be said about very large Jewish family gatherings. Yes, it is definitely one big happy tribal gathering but it is also a hot spot to catch up on the latest community gossip. Everyone wants to be kept in the loop and find out about the latest and greatest. The older relatives also want to keep up with the youth, namely me. "So Marisa, you successfully graduated from New York University, your dream school. What are you doing with your life now?" This was obviously one of the frequently asked questions of the weekend. Some friends thought that appropriate answers to this should have been: I just joined a cult out in Texas, I have become a missionary for the Mormons, or I am currently a dancer at a gentleman's club. As much as these made me laugh, they obviously don't know that my modern orthodox family would not appreciate the humor. After I explained the truth,"I'm currently unemployed. No, I can't find a job anywhere.", the myriad of advice began to flow. Aunts, Uncles, family friends, and distant cousins would begin to suggest that I go into social work, law, or medicine (like the rest of my family). Many would begin to provide me with helpful names, places, and companies to reach out to. While the tips were obviously appreciated, there was a slim chance that it would ever help me in the long run. These conversations generally ended with a kiss on the cheek and an awkward well wishing. They all followed this formula...except for the talk I had with my younger Uncle and his wife.
My uncle (mom's younger brother) is someone who definitely knows my current thoughts and feelings. Up until his luck changed recently, the job market was not very kind to him either. His wife also works very hard and is a mother to two adorable toddlers. Since they are younger than most of the relatives I was speaking to, I felt more comfortable discussing the full situation with them. And because of that, I received the best advice from them this weekend.
Get out of town.
He said "if it's truly your dream to make it in the music business, you have to start looking in other cities besides New York." His wife also proceeded to tell me how she bought a car and drove to California the second she graduated college. She felt that she needed to go somewhere else and live in other parts of the country before she settled down. I had no idea. My uncle also said that the biggest piece of advice he could give me was to stop listening to all the people that tell me that I can't do it and start being determined again. It was so refreshing to hear this after all of the people who told me I should be the one to change. Needless to say, the second the festivities were finished I went online to do some research. The big cities that I can do what I want as a career are Chicago, Nashville, and Los Angeles. There are also a few opportunities out in Austin, Seattle, San Francisco and Boston but it'll be a bit more of a hunt there. Everyone who knows me well knows that my heart will always be in New York City. However, this is probably my only time to be a mobile 20-something and I shouldn't be spending this time in my childhood bedroom hoping things will magically work out on their own. Let's make this happen.
Before I sign off, I want to use this blog as a promotional tool. After I became unemployed, I took on a project to become my friend's band manager. I figured that it would be a great way to build up my portfolio and learn more about the business I want to get involved in. Normally I will never use names of other's in my blog but I want to advertise his concert for tomorrow. So come check out James Downtown at Pianos on the LES in New York. His band is a really great mixture of rock and blues and his songs are super catchy. They'll be playing in the upstairs lounge at 8pm. Here is a link to the facebook event http://on.fb.me/psPAlS . I hope to see you all there!
Interviews Scheduled: 2, waiting to hear back from a sick music internship.
GRE Studying: Social Psychology review, Persuasion and Affiliation/Attraction.
Music Practice: Nada.
It is always a challenge to get anything done on a three day weekend. Throw in a fight with mom, a HUGE family bar mitzvah, and the fact that it's unofficially the last weekend of summer 2011 and you have a formula for no minor accomplishments over the past few days. I managed to study for about 3 hours this morning and apply for 15 jobs on Thursday the 1st, but that's about it.
There is something to be said about very large Jewish family gatherings. Yes, it is definitely one big happy tribal gathering but it is also a hot spot to catch up on the latest community gossip. Everyone wants to be kept in the loop and find out about the latest and greatest. The older relatives also want to keep up with the youth, namely me. "So Marisa, you successfully graduated from New York University, your dream school. What are you doing with your life now?" This was obviously one of the frequently asked questions of the weekend. Some friends thought that appropriate answers to this should have been: I just joined a cult out in Texas, I have become a missionary for the Mormons, or I am currently a dancer at a gentleman's club. As much as these made me laugh, they obviously don't know that my modern orthodox family would not appreciate the humor. After I explained the truth,"I'm currently unemployed. No, I can't find a job anywhere.", the myriad of advice began to flow. Aunts, Uncles, family friends, and distant cousins would begin to suggest that I go into social work, law, or medicine (like the rest of my family). Many would begin to provide me with helpful names, places, and companies to reach out to. While the tips were obviously appreciated, there was a slim chance that it would ever help me in the long run. These conversations generally ended with a kiss on the cheek and an awkward well wishing. They all followed this formula...except for the talk I had with my younger Uncle and his wife.
My uncle (mom's younger brother) is someone who definitely knows my current thoughts and feelings. Up until his luck changed recently, the job market was not very kind to him either. His wife also works very hard and is a mother to two adorable toddlers. Since they are younger than most of the relatives I was speaking to, I felt more comfortable discussing the full situation with them. And because of that, I received the best advice from them this weekend.
Get out of town.
He said "if it's truly your dream to make it in the music business, you have to start looking in other cities besides New York." His wife also proceeded to tell me how she bought a car and drove to California the second she graduated college. She felt that she needed to go somewhere else and live in other parts of the country before she settled down. I had no idea. My uncle also said that the biggest piece of advice he could give me was to stop listening to all the people that tell me that I can't do it and start being determined again. It was so refreshing to hear this after all of the people who told me I should be the one to change. Needless to say, the second the festivities were finished I went online to do some research. The big cities that I can do what I want as a career are Chicago, Nashville, and Los Angeles. There are also a few opportunities out in Austin, Seattle, San Francisco and Boston but it'll be a bit more of a hunt there. Everyone who knows me well knows that my heart will always be in New York City. However, this is probably my only time to be a mobile 20-something and I shouldn't be spending this time in my childhood bedroom hoping things will magically work out on their own. Let's make this happen.
Before I sign off, I want to use this blog as a promotional tool. After I became unemployed, I took on a project to become my friend's band manager. I figured that it would be a great way to build up my portfolio and learn more about the business I want to get involved in. Normally I will never use names of other's in my blog but I want to advertise his concert for tomorrow. So come check out James Downtown at Pianos on the LES in New York. His band is a really great mixture of rock and blues and his songs are super catchy. They'll be playing in the upstairs lounge at 8pm. Here is a link to the facebook event http://on.fb.me/psPAlS . I hope to see you all there!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Day 18: I'm Calling "Dibs" On That One
Jobs Applied For: 5.
Interviews Scheduled: 0, I've had a total of 4 this week so far.
GRE Studying: More verbal and quantitative reviews, Psychology review begins TODAY.
Music Practice: One hour spent strumming the sweet melodious guitar.
Let's play a quick game, a short mental exercise if you will. Think back to about 5 years ago; president Bush's ratings were in the toilet, my class was first entering their freshman year of college, and Italy had a really great year in sports (2006 winter olympic hosts AND winners of the world cup.) Can you remember what it was like to hunt for a job at that time? I'm sure it was a pretty standard procedure; find a position that you find remotely interesting, interview against a few other outstanding candidates, and if it's the right fit then said remotely interesting position is yours. Oh how I long for those simple days but unfortunately I wasn't on the occupational prowl at that time, I was living in Burlington, VT and picking out my fall semester courses.
No one can disagree with the fact that the graduating class of 2009 was hit the hardest by the economic downturn, but my fellow 2010 graduates are having just as difficult of a time finding a career. It may be attributed to the fact the most of my friends' desired professions lie in the arts industries but I feel as if our age group is a generation of dreamers. We are constantly seeking what we believe will be the most enjoyable career path instead of the one that just pays the bills. Since the economic downturn is not only causing larger, more unfriendly unemployment statistics but a later retirement age as well, my generation is taking a heavy financial blow. It's not fair that the only excellent opportunities offered to someone in my position are unpaid internships that will leave you with nothing but some experience and a reference who barely remembers your name. Maybe I'm just bitter but I'm calling it like I see it.
Which is why I'm figuratively calling "dibs."
When you were in elementary school and you wanted to sit next to your best friends at lunch, you would call "dibs" on the only seat at the table that wasn't slightly broken or covered in food. When you were in high school and textbooks were being handed out at the beginning of the year, you would call "dibs" on the freshest, cleanest one in sight. I would like to reinforce the "dibs" rule on a job position I just found this morning, a full time office manager position at a music company which specializes in event marketing and music management among other areas. I know that I could go above and beyond for this company if they would give me an interview at the very least. Of course there is always the chance that there is someone smarter/prettier/more edgy/ etc. that is applying for the same position with the same hopes and dreams as me. However if I call "dibs" and those age old rules still apply, then the position would be mine for the taking. I have definitely worked hard enough for this so I am calling it on this particular position and I will stop at nothing to make sure that it is mine.
Interviews Scheduled: 0, I've had a total of 4 this week so far.
GRE Studying: More verbal and quantitative reviews, Psychology review begins TODAY.
Music Practice: One hour spent strumming the sweet melodious guitar.
Let's play a quick game, a short mental exercise if you will. Think back to about 5 years ago; president Bush's ratings were in the toilet, my class was first entering their freshman year of college, and Italy had a really great year in sports (2006 winter olympic hosts AND winners of the world cup.) Can you remember what it was like to hunt for a job at that time? I'm sure it was a pretty standard procedure; find a position that you find remotely interesting, interview against a few other outstanding candidates, and if it's the right fit then said remotely interesting position is yours. Oh how I long for those simple days but unfortunately I wasn't on the occupational prowl at that time, I was living in Burlington, VT and picking out my fall semester courses.
No one can disagree with the fact that the graduating class of 2009 was hit the hardest by the economic downturn, but my fellow 2010 graduates are having just as difficult of a time finding a career. It may be attributed to the fact the most of my friends' desired professions lie in the arts industries but I feel as if our age group is a generation of dreamers. We are constantly seeking what we believe will be the most enjoyable career path instead of the one that just pays the bills. Since the economic downturn is not only causing larger, more unfriendly unemployment statistics but a later retirement age as well, my generation is taking a heavy financial blow. It's not fair that the only excellent opportunities offered to someone in my position are unpaid internships that will leave you with nothing but some experience and a reference who barely remembers your name. Maybe I'm just bitter but I'm calling it like I see it.
Which is why I'm figuratively calling "dibs."
When you were in elementary school and you wanted to sit next to your best friends at lunch, you would call "dibs" on the only seat at the table that wasn't slightly broken or covered in food. When you were in high school and textbooks were being handed out at the beginning of the year, you would call "dibs" on the freshest, cleanest one in sight. I would like to reinforce the "dibs" rule on a job position I just found this morning, a full time office manager position at a music company which specializes in event marketing and music management among other areas. I know that I could go above and beyond for this company if they would give me an interview at the very least. Of course there is always the chance that there is someone smarter/prettier/more edgy/ etc. that is applying for the same position with the same hopes and dreams as me. However if I call "dibs" and those age old rules still apply, then the position would be mine for the taking. I have definitely worked hard enough for this so I am calling it on this particular position and I will stop at nothing to make sure that it is mine.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Day 15: Every girl needs a good pair of interview heels.
Jobs Applied For: 15.
Interviews Scheduled: 2. Possibly 3 by the morning
GRE Studying: Verbal and Quantitative reviews, pretty extensive.
Music Practice: Nada...no time :(
I can't say that there was a lot of productivity today. Most of the day was spent in a post-vacation/post-hurri...I mean tropical storm slump. I confirmed my two interviews set for tomorrow which means an adventure in the city in my very tall, do NOT mess with me pumps. Mine just happen to be 3-inch black beauties.
Did I mention I finally got my accommodation letters in the mail for the GRE today??? It was fantastic to see that I had received everything I requested. My Psychology exam is October 15th and I can call tomorrow morning to set up a date and time for the general exam. I like putting deadlines on things like this. While I obviously endured last minute cram sessions for many a test during my college days, the GRE is a mountain that will take a lot more diligence and time to conquer. I have no doubt that I can take it on. Keep your fingers crossed for me.
Interviews Scheduled: 2. Possibly 3 by the morning
GRE Studying: Verbal and Quantitative reviews, pretty extensive.
Music Practice: Nada...no time :(
I can't say that there was a lot of productivity today. Most of the day was spent in a post-vacation/post-hurri...I mean tropical storm slump. I confirmed my two interviews set for tomorrow which means an adventure in the city in my very tall, do NOT mess with me pumps. Mine just happen to be 3-inch black beauties.
Did I mention I finally got my accommodation letters in the mail for the GRE today??? It was fantastic to see that I had received everything I requested. My Psychology exam is October 15th and I can call tomorrow morning to set up a date and time for the general exam. I like putting deadlines on things like this. While I obviously endured last minute cram sessions for many a test during my college days, the GRE is a mountain that will take a lot more diligence and time to conquer. I have no doubt that I can take it on. Keep your fingers crossed for me.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Day 14: We interrupt this broadcast to bring you...a weather report?
Jobs Applied For: Don't Ask.
Interviews Scheduled: 1 regular and 1 by phone
GRE Studying: More math review, long talk with a possible tutor (for free!)
Music Practice: I haven't exactly had instrumental access for the past week but I killed it at kareoke during my vacation in Vermont.
Hello friends. When we last spoke, I mentioned that I was taking a short break from my responsibilities because of a great vacation I was on. As promised, I climbed mountains, made friends, and went swimming a lot. Unfortunately, that vacation was cut short. You may be curious as to why I had to leave my little piece of paradise a day early. It may have something to do with this...
Enter Hurricane Tropical Storm Irene, the bitch that ruined my vacation. The storm that was initially going to hit the tri-state area as a category 2 hurricane. Lucky for all of us, she wasn't pms-ing as much as angry once she made landfall in New Jersey. But as news reports of the aftermath come out, I am quickly beginning to realize that the storm in Stamford was quite different than the one that hit my fellow Manhattanites.
While you are relaxing in your apartments with minimal damage (if any) and complaining that the media made too big of a deal about Miss Irene, I was ringing out towels from the moderate flooding in our basement and thanking my lucky stars that my power didn't go. In fact, I think that about half of my town (if not more) is currently left in the dark. Streets by the Long Island Sound are flooded and there are trees down just about everywhere. So lovely Manhattan friends, any complaints about the over-hype of Irene is a slap in the face to me and your friends living in Coastal Connecticut, Long Island, New Jersey, Westchester, and parts of the other four burroughs that make up New York City. Please think of others before you rant.
As for me, since I have power and I am back home I should probably get back to work with my job search, GRE studies, and music practice. But I think I'll finish watching those crazy crazy news reports first.
[Update 1]: Maybe we weren't 100% lucky. Our water was just shut off...
[Update 2 - 5:45pm]: Water is back but it's coming out brown. Apparently a water pump broke in my neighborhood. A few more hours until it's normal again.
Interviews Scheduled: 1 regular and 1 by phone
GRE Studying: More math review, long talk with a possible tutor (for free!)
Music Practice: I haven't exactly had instrumental access for the past week but I killed it at kareoke during my vacation in Vermont.
Hello friends. When we last spoke, I mentioned that I was taking a short break from my responsibilities because of a great vacation I was on. As promised, I climbed mountains, made friends, and went swimming a lot. Unfortunately, that vacation was cut short. You may be curious as to why I had to leave my little piece of paradise a day early. It may have something to do with this...
While you are relaxing in your apartments with minimal damage (if any) and complaining that the media made too big of a deal about Miss Irene, I was ringing out towels from the moderate flooding in our basement and thanking my lucky stars that my power didn't go. In fact, I think that about half of my town (if not more) is currently left in the dark. Streets by the Long Island Sound are flooded and there are trees down just about everywhere. So lovely Manhattan friends, any complaints about the over-hype of Irene is a slap in the face to me and your friends living in Coastal Connecticut, Long Island, New Jersey, Westchester, and parts of the other four burroughs that make up New York City. Please think of others before you rant.
As for me, since I have power and I am back home I should probably get back to work with my job search, GRE studies, and music practice. But I think I'll finish watching those crazy crazy news reports first.
[Update 1]: Maybe we weren't 100% lucky. Our water was just shut off...
[Update 2 - 5:45pm]: Water is back but it's coming out brown. Apparently a water pump broke in my neighborhood. A few more hours until it's normal again.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Day 9: Climbing Mountains
Jobs Applied For: 20 since we last spoke
Interviews Scheduled: 1
GRE Preparation: A couple of diagnostic tests and the beginnings of a basic math review
Music Practice: A couple of hours re-learning tabs and learning/playing "21 Guns" with my little sister
To my devoted readers: I know it has been a full week since you have heard from me and I must apologize. How did your lives ever go on? Just kidding, I'm sure you all muddled through without hearing another embarrassing interview anecdote experienced by yours truly. There is a reason for my missing in action status, and a valid one at that. I have decided to take a vacation. Although I am unemployed and have held that card since the beginning of the summer, I have done nothing but work myself to the bone trying to find some sort of job. You can't blame a girl who needs to pay the bills, right? However after 3 months of no success I have decided to cut myself a break and return to the home of my childhood summers, the most magical place I could ever imagine. Ladies and Gentlemen, I am NOT talking about Disney World.
I'm talking about Vermont.
That's right, the Green Mountain State. Home to fantastic sites such as the Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory (who DOESN'T like Ben and Jerry's?), The University of Vermont (site of my freshman year of college), and of course Smuggler's Notch. Most of you probably recognize the last location on my list as a great skiing destination, but it means so much more to me. I have spent one week per summer at this location since I was six years old. Favorite past occurrences at Smuggs include swimming in water holes, playing capture the flag in the words, making life long friends, and rock/mountain climbing. And the best part was that there was very limited internet and cell phone service so I had no choice but to enjoy every moment playing outdoors. While technology up here has since advanced with the addition of wifi and Verizon cell phone towers, I try as hard as I can to keep that childhood promise of spending as much time outdoors during my time here.
So friends, please don't be alarmed if you do not hear from me until Sunday evening when I make my triumphant return to suburbia. I'm simply choosing to climb some mountains instead. My GRE books, job searching materials, and guitar will be waiting patiently for me but until then, I'll finally enjoy the last days of summer 2011 as they were meant to be.
Interviews Scheduled: 1
GRE Preparation: A couple of diagnostic tests and the beginnings of a basic math review
Music Practice: A couple of hours re-learning tabs and learning/playing "21 Guns" with my little sister
To my devoted readers: I know it has been a full week since you have heard from me and I must apologize. How did your lives ever go on? Just kidding, I'm sure you all muddled through without hearing another embarrassing interview anecdote experienced by yours truly. There is a reason for my missing in action status, and a valid one at that. I have decided to take a vacation. Although I am unemployed and have held that card since the beginning of the summer, I have done nothing but work myself to the bone trying to find some sort of job. You can't blame a girl who needs to pay the bills, right? However after 3 months of no success I have decided to cut myself a break and return to the home of my childhood summers, the most magical place I could ever imagine. Ladies and Gentlemen, I am NOT talking about Disney World.
I'm talking about Vermont.
That's right, the Green Mountain State. Home to fantastic sites such as the Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory (who DOESN'T like Ben and Jerry's?), The University of Vermont (site of my freshman year of college), and of course Smuggler's Notch. Most of you probably recognize the last location on my list as a great skiing destination, but it means so much more to me. I have spent one week per summer at this location since I was six years old. Favorite past occurrences at Smuggs include swimming in water holes, playing capture the flag in the words, making life long friends, and rock/mountain climbing. And the best part was that there was very limited internet and cell phone service so I had no choice but to enjoy every moment playing outdoors. While technology up here has since advanced with the addition of wifi and Verizon cell phone towers, I try as hard as I can to keep that childhood promise of spending as much time outdoors during my time here.
So friends, please don't be alarmed if you do not hear from me until Sunday evening when I make my triumphant return to suburbia. I'm simply choosing to climb some mountains instead. My GRE books, job searching materials, and guitar will be waiting patiently for me but until then, I'll finally enjoy the last days of summer 2011 as they were meant to be.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Day 3: What NOT to do right before an interview.
Jobs Applied For: 11 (two day total)
Interviews Currently Scheduled: 2 (different ones than previously listed)
GRE Work: Paper work shipped out to NJ!!! Studying begins post-blogging.
Music Practice: None...yet.
These past two days have been very busy as far as the job search portion of this blog is concerned. I have been going back and forth in between home and the given interview of the day in NYC. At least I can say I have been offered many interviews, which is more than I could say when this job search began two months ago. However, some of these interviews have not been the best...like the one I went to yesterday evening.
I had set up an interview with a laid back photography company last week after they contacted me with positive remarks about my resume. I was feeling a calm excitement about this one because I felt confident that the position was mine. As I was leaving for the train station with a confident smile on my face, I grabbed a bottle of blueberry iced tea (trust me, this is relevant) and I was out the door. One hour later as I'm walking from the train platform into the grand concourse in Grand Central, I feel a sudden dripping on my foot. My bottle of sweet refreshment had ruptured in my bag and leaked all over my blazer and my resume. Of course it did.
Thank god for the Xcelerator hand dryers in the Grand Central bathrooms.
15 minutes after standing under the dryer, I was on my way with a dry resume and a somewhat damp blazer. I walked into that interview with confidence smelling of blueberry tea. The interview itself went ok (aside from the fact that I was preaching about how I'm such a creative person and my interviewer interrupts me to state that the position is at least 65% clerical.) But the tea spill of 2011 shattered my cockiness and humbled me.
If I have learned anything from this experience, it would be to never carry a plastic water bottle (or tea bottle) in the same bag as important documents and interview apparel. It would also be to portray yourself as a well rounded person, as oppose to purely creative. But I'm sure that lesson will come up again throughout the duration of this blog.
Interviews Currently Scheduled: 2 (different ones than previously listed)
GRE Work: Paper work shipped out to NJ!!! Studying begins post-blogging.
Music Practice: None...yet.
These past two days have been very busy as far as the job search portion of this blog is concerned. I have been going back and forth in between home and the given interview of the day in NYC. At least I can say I have been offered many interviews, which is more than I could say when this job search began two months ago. However, some of these interviews have not been the best...like the one I went to yesterday evening.
I had set up an interview with a laid back photography company last week after they contacted me with positive remarks about my resume. I was feeling a calm excitement about this one because I felt confident that the position was mine. As I was leaving for the train station with a confident smile on my face, I grabbed a bottle of blueberry iced tea (trust me, this is relevant) and I was out the door. One hour later as I'm walking from the train platform into the grand concourse in Grand Central, I feel a sudden dripping on my foot. My bottle of sweet refreshment had ruptured in my bag and leaked all over my blazer and my resume. Of course it did.
Thank god for the Xcelerator hand dryers in the Grand Central bathrooms.
15 minutes after standing under the dryer, I was on my way with a dry resume and a somewhat damp blazer. I walked into that interview with confidence smelling of blueberry tea. The interview itself went ok (aside from the fact that I was preaching about how I'm such a creative person and my interviewer interrupts me to state that the position is at least 65% clerical.) But the tea spill of 2011 shattered my cockiness and humbled me.
If I have learned anything from this experience, it would be to never carry a plastic water bottle (or tea bottle) in the same bag as important documents and interview apparel. It would also be to portray yourself as a well rounded person, as oppose to purely creative. But I'm sure that lesson will come up again throughout the duration of this blog.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Day 1: A Productive Start
Jobs Applied For: 4
Interviews Currently Scheduled: 2
GRE Work: Many many forms to fill out, codes to look up, cost to calculate. Check.
Music Practice: Sadly, No hours completed.
Usually, Mondays are filled with opportunity for the fabulously unemployed. The barren job posting boards from the weekend are generously refilled with all sorts of interesting positions just waiting to be applied to. However, it's August which usually means that everyone is outside enjoying the last sweet taste of summer sun. There weren't many decent postings today, mostly personal assistant positions. The fact that I was even able to find four decent positions is a feat in itself. Now let's see if I hear back from them.
As for the GREs, it's one thing if you are in the majority of the population and you can just waltz through registration like a ballroom dancer. However if you have a learning disability, you are required to fill out a small mountain of paperwork just to register. I have a mild form of dyslexia, it's nothing too drastic but it is more than enough to give me major test anxiety and qualify me for extended time. After looking up several complex codes (did you know that the country code for the USA is 592?) I finally completed it all. Just in time for my mother to come home from work and give me holy hell for the inability to fold her clothing. Apparently I'm such an awful daughter.
On the bright side, I have an interview scheduled for late tomorrow afternoon. It'll get me out of town so I can float around and escape for a night. I hope I don't forget my Psychology book.
Interviews Currently Scheduled: 2
GRE Work: Many many forms to fill out, codes to look up, cost to calculate. Check.
Music Practice: Sadly, No hours completed.
Usually, Mondays are filled with opportunity for the fabulously unemployed. The barren job posting boards from the weekend are generously refilled with all sorts of interesting positions just waiting to be applied to. However, it's August which usually means that everyone is outside enjoying the last sweet taste of summer sun. There weren't many decent postings today, mostly personal assistant positions. The fact that I was even able to find four decent positions is a feat in itself. Now let's see if I hear back from them.
As for the GREs, it's one thing if you are in the majority of the population and you can just waltz through registration like a ballroom dancer. However if you have a learning disability, you are required to fill out a small mountain of paperwork just to register. I have a mild form of dyslexia, it's nothing too drastic but it is more than enough to give me major test anxiety and qualify me for extended time. After looking up several complex codes (did you know that the country code for the USA is 592?) I finally completed it all. Just in time for my mother to come home from work and give me holy hell for the inability to fold her clothing. Apparently I'm such an awful daughter.
On the bright side, I have an interview scheduled for late tomorrow afternoon. It'll get me out of town so I can float around and escape for a night. I hope I don't forget my Psychology book.
You Have To Start Somewhere
Two days ago marks one full year since I moved back home from New York City. I can't complain too much because Stamford, CT is a mere 45 minute train ride away from the heart of midtown. Yet I will always feel that a part of me is missing until I am financially stable enough to move back. My background story is somewhat common these days; a very bright girl full of hopes and dreams graduates from her top university of choice (in my case it was New York University) with a very strange major (Music and Psychology, "Music and the Mind" if you want to slap a title on it), but sadly is unable to find employment after a year of constant searching because of the horrible job market. However, this is not as simple as it sounds.
Moving back to my childhood home could easily be compared to moving back into a suburban war zone. My parents just completed their divorce and leaving some very deep emotional scars behind on my entire family. The environment is consistently tense and the art of watching your words must be mastered to ensure peace for the day. Imagine trying to pull your future together in that house, it's almost impossible.
But I digress. This personal blog was made to keep track of my achievements and future goals, Not to complain and attempt to gather an internet pity party.
I have four large goals that I want to achieve before I end this blog. They are:
1. Move out of Connecticut - The ultimate prize would be to celebrate my homecoming in NYC once more. However at this point, I am also considering options such as Austin, TX San Francisco, CA Nashville, TN and Burlington, VT.
2. Find A Job - I have been 100% unemployed since June 3rd, 2011. All have been doing since that date is attempting to find another job. While I have become a pro at delivering in an interview, I still have yet to find a full time position anywhere.
3. Study For And Take The GREs (General and Psychology Exams) - I have taken both exams before, but the dates just happened to coincide with my finals during fall semester of my senior year. Needless to say, neither exam went well. I am a self-titled over achiever so it needs to happen again.
4. Learn Guitar AND Piano - I probably should have mentioned this above but I am a music junkie. I have been singing all my life and writing my own songs for about 6 years. It's finally time for me to start a band and perform. Therefore, it's time to learn an instrument and accompany myself on stage. I have also recently been thinking about a career in music therapy and these instruments are a must if one wants to even begin a program like that.
The only way to endure life in this town is to achieve the goals listed above, and soon. I promise to keep track of everything, from the amount of hours spent studying and practicing, to the amount of jobs applied for an interviews scheduled. I don't want to be seen as helpless anymore, this blog is what determination looks like. I'm currently trapped in transition and sticking to this plan is the only thing that will help me out of this rut.
It's not helping that my writing is currently being influence by my mood and the rain outside. While this blog is a personal one, I can promise you that it will be just as witty and fun as I am. Who knows, maybe you'll even get a laugh out of it. Consider it as being modeled after the movie Julie and Julia. I will keep track of my accomplishments and failures and hopefully you will like what you hear. Feel free to leave tips, tricks, and words of advice because I could use any help I can get my hands on at this point. With that said, I invite you to read on, maybe it'll inspire you to do something of value with your life.
Moving back to my childhood home could easily be compared to moving back into a suburban war zone. My parents just completed their divorce and leaving some very deep emotional scars behind on my entire family. The environment is consistently tense and the art of watching your words must be mastered to ensure peace for the day. Imagine trying to pull your future together in that house, it's almost impossible.
But I digress. This personal blog was made to keep track of my achievements and future goals, Not to complain and attempt to gather an internet pity party.
I have four large goals that I want to achieve before I end this blog. They are:
1. Move out of Connecticut - The ultimate prize would be to celebrate my homecoming in NYC once more. However at this point, I am also considering options such as Austin, TX San Francisco, CA Nashville, TN and Burlington, VT.
2. Find A Job - I have been 100% unemployed since June 3rd, 2011. All have been doing since that date is attempting to find another job. While I have become a pro at delivering in an interview, I still have yet to find a full time position anywhere.
3. Study For And Take The GREs (General and Psychology Exams) - I have taken both exams before, but the dates just happened to coincide with my finals during fall semester of my senior year. Needless to say, neither exam went well. I am a self-titled over achiever so it needs to happen again.
4. Learn Guitar AND Piano - I probably should have mentioned this above but I am a music junkie. I have been singing all my life and writing my own songs for about 6 years. It's finally time for me to start a band and perform. Therefore, it's time to learn an instrument and accompany myself on stage. I have also recently been thinking about a career in music therapy and these instruments are a must if one wants to even begin a program like that.
The only way to endure life in this town is to achieve the goals listed above, and soon. I promise to keep track of everything, from the amount of hours spent studying and practicing, to the amount of jobs applied for an interviews scheduled. I don't want to be seen as helpless anymore, this blog is what determination looks like. I'm currently trapped in transition and sticking to this plan is the only thing that will help me out of this rut.
It's not helping that my writing is currently being influence by my mood and the rain outside. While this blog is a personal one, I can promise you that it will be just as witty and fun as I am. Who knows, maybe you'll even get a laugh out of it. Consider it as being modeled after the movie Julie and Julia. I will keep track of my accomplishments and failures and hopefully you will like what you hear. Feel free to leave tips, tricks, and words of advice because I could use any help I can get my hands on at this point. With that said, I invite you to read on, maybe it'll inspire you to do something of value with your life.
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