Looking for Life, Love, and Laughter...And a Job #1

I think an introduction of sorts is in order – how are you to know if you want to read through a recounting of what are likely to be some of the craziest months of my life if you do not know me at all?

Where to begin though? I like to think of myself as relatively complex, but if I’ve learned only one thing over the past year and a half, it’s that all of us drawn into this field are complex, thoughtful, introspective, and all sorts of other cool things.

I’ll begin with some stats that most anyone reading this is likely to understand and can use to get a handle on me. In Myers-Briggs I’m an INTJ; most people who know me well are surprised to find out that I’m basically a 100% introvert…I tend to describe myself as probably the most outgoing introvert you’ll ever meet. In StrengthsQuest I have Input, Strategic, Individualization, Learner, Activator, and I’m a strong Green/Gold in the old bystander True Colors. In fact, I can’t actually declare Green or Gold since I seem to change every time I take it. So I suppose now you know pretty much everything you need to know about me…

However, a few more details might paint a better picture.

I am doing my Master’s degree at an institution in the Southeast, and I am originally from the region (different state thought). No, I do not want to stay in the Southeast. My career interests are somewhat varied – a position in an LGBTQ resource center driven by the social change model and focusing on leadership development would be absolutely a dream job, especially in the Mid-Atlantic or West Coast area – not too much snow. If not that, well, LGBTQ resources and services, social justice initiatives, leadership development, and curriculum innovation are all interests of mine. As mentioned, I’m currently planning to job search in two general areas, but that seems to change every day.

If you want to know me on a more personal level....well, my hobbies are...wait, you're allowed to have hobbies in grad school? No really, I love to read, spend time with friends and family, and clean/organize (pretty nice hobby to have actually). I am still learning to cook - that's always an adventure. I love painting my nails wild colors, can't wait to have a more settled life so I can get a dog, and love fantasy fiction. My "dream" job would be to be a burrito connoisseur (the TexMex kind, not like Chipotle) without ever gaining weight.   

To be completely honest, I am both unbelievably excited and extremely terrified of the upcoming semester. My comprehensive exams are just a month away, so right now much of my anxiety is focused around that Friday morning – but I’m constantly combing job search sites and tweaking my resume as well. There are too many things to do and too few hours in the day…but isn’t that always the case?

Quick footnote: If you don't recognize my title, check out the song it came from. It's been one of my favorites for years and always puts me in a good mood.