So, the great thing about moving is you get a chance to downsize! Yes, I, Ashlea Evans, own a queen bed, a few boxes (mainly holding books and artwork), and a bicycle. Oh, the joys of being young! It is rather ironic though, because in this last stage of youth and ‘fancy free’, I enter the real world…

For the past few weeks I have been scouring craigslist in search of short term rentals in DC, until I have established where exactly I will be working. Of course I have chosen the best time to look for a job: when the entire world is experiencing an economic meltdown, Americans are being laid off left, right, and center… and the whole of DC is preparing for the inauguration, thus job applications are the furthest thing from their mind. It is all very disconcerting, but I just keep on telling myself that there is not much more I can be doing. I search for jobs everyday, I have roughly 80-100 resumes circulating, I have a professional website, and I am showcased on various job boards/ talent boards. It is all rather frustrating, as it is completely out of my control!

I am so motivated to start my career. I am extremely passionate about what I have studied, and I just want to put in the hours and the effort, in order to achieve all my aspirations. I just need a foot in the door to prove myself, to show them that I am capable, that I am dedicated, and that I am an asset.

At least I have the support of so many wonderful people. Jason Hughes, a fellow blogger and my previous supervisor has been a superstar in helping me find my way in the big world. I don’t think there are many individuals who can say that their previous boss has an RSS feed for career opportunities suited to that individual! I get regular emails from Jason with links to positions he thinks I should apply for. It’s really great because very often a suitable job slips under the radar… and it’s also comforting to know that someone believes in you. So, thank you, Jason!

The whole moving thing has been tough, as I truly just want to get settled and find my feet. I can’t commit to a permanent living arrangement until I have a job, and I can’t get a job until I commit to a living arrangement closer to the city…

Luckily, I am currently taking a much needed vacation. I feel guilty about 80% of the time. However, I am trying to enjoy this time, as I know in a few months time I won’t have the opportunity to sit back and relax.