That time has finally arrived. It’s the big announcement, the great ‘hooray!’ and the taste of victory…

My life is finally falling into place and it was well worth the ride. Last Monday, on my return from FL, I received a phone call from Bruce, whom I had been volunteering for. Without even seeing my resume, he said, I want to hire you. A week or so later, here I sit, at my desk in my new job as an associate in a political consulting firm. I couldn’t be happier! Those trecherous 5 months of job searching were well worth finding this gem of a position.

I’ve learned several things in my job search, firstly (as I have said many times before), it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. You have to put yourself out there. I am a prime example: I just volunteered for Bruce, he got to know me, I proved myself and when the time came for him to hire someone else, I was there. A few weeks of working for free can sincerely pay off.

Secondly, be positive -there are always going to be times that you feel as though your life is stagnant and you’re not going anywhere… but really you are even when you’re just standing still. People want to be around people who are happy, confident and positive; it makes them positive. So, if you’re feeling lost, take out a pen and write down five things you are certain about in your life at that very moment. Concentrate on those. And if you feel lost, it’s only because you have a lot of options.

Thirdly, you must always believe in yourself – I always say, if you don’t believe in yourself, then how can you expect others to believe in you?

Shoot for the moon and if you don’t get there you’ll land among the stars…

Things have finally come together. I have an amazing job, I work for the most amazing boss in the entire world. And I have so much to learn… I can’t wait! Last night I went to an Italian Education Gala at the Building Museum. Vice President Biden spoke, as well as Joe Montagne. Apart from having to go through secret service security, the event was very impressive. It was a black tie dinner and I had the opportunity to meet many directors of government affairs and other high profile individuals.

Next week voting on the hill starts again, so things are going to be extremely busy with fundraising events and such. Basically, we are a political consulting firm that assists congress persons (our clients) to raise Political Action Committee funds. It means going to a lot of events,  organizing events and networking. As there are only four of us in the office, there are great opportunities for me. Another side note, I have visa sponsorship! So, granting that everything goes through, I’m here to stay (at least for a while!).

The last bit of news… I’m moving! Actually, just a few blocks down the road, but into a safer ‘hood’. I will be right by Eastern Market, 2 blocks from my boss’ house, 12 blocks from work, 11 blocks from the Capitol and 2 blocks from the metro! It’s in a house with two other girls. It’s a beautiful victorian three-level row house with a back yard and garden and grill. The floors are all antique wood, stainglass windows and my room is on the third floor with a little attached study nook! I move in on Sunday! It’s half the rent I am currently paying, but a thousand times better.

Well, I am going to have to get used to supporting myself… I think a paycheck means I’m cutoff from mom and dad’s support. Of course when this happens everything falls apart – my car won’t start (alternator), I’ve gone way over my minutes, I need medical aid and it is due time that I purchase some formal wear for all these events (my prom dress just doesn’t cut it anymore!).

Plus… I lost my camera last night with all my photos from the gala… when I find it I will post some photos from last night.

Until then, it’s back to work for me

Dear Class of 2009,

Firstly, my sincere congratulations! You do not deserve to be graduating during this time, so don’t get yourself down about the job market – it’s not a reflection on your achievements, but rather a reflection on the economy and mismanagement. As my friends always say, ‘What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!’

So, be strong and be brave because after every down there is an up and you aren’t the only one on this stressful roller coaster. You know that for the past 5 months I have been job searching and believe me, it’s only the beginning for a lot of you.

I have a few words of advice though. Don’t sit still… keep moving. It’s honestly about who you know not what you know (obviously a degree is a requirement) but put yourself out there. If you want to work in politics, move to DC. Take the jump, volunteer, get involved, sacrifice yourself because it will benefit you eventually. Now is not the time to be picky, if your internship requires you to fetch coffee, make the best coffee you’ve ever made in your life. If you have to pick up xerox stuff, do it with a smile on your face. When it comes to them reaching out to a new candidate for a position, who do you think they are going to choose?

There is a link to a video my dad sent me (be sure to press play) but it is really interesting and may give you some insight into where to go, and why you shouldn’t beat yourself up over the fact that you are one of the 82% of graduates graduating without a job.

Be brave, hold your head up high and good things will come – I promise.

http://tipstrategies.com/archive/geography-of-jobs/?ref=patrick.net

I am back in Boca for graduation this weekend. Oh how I miss FL weather! I forgot how ideal the Lynn lifestyle is! Yesterday I soaked up some sun,worked out in Lynn’s fitness center in the Lynn residence hall and then went to Mizner Park.Then made a midnight spontaneous beach trip and built a sandcastle. Oh the joys of being on the Florida coast. What a location to go to college- you just can’t beat it!