The Letter

For two months my life has been turned upside down, but at the same time I was on cloud nine. After three interviews, I was waiting to hear if I got the job that seemed so perfect for me. I would put my cell phone in my pocket during class just in case I got the call. In November when it was time to register for spring semester I chose classes that wouldn't interfere with my new job hours. I felt confident I was making all of the right choices.

In the summer of 2008 I left my job as a school bus driver to take a position with a company as an assistant writer for an organization that creates training materials for the school transportation industry. Six months later I was laid off due to budget challenges in the company. But I wasn't worried because I had someone in my corner – college. So I focused on school and did an internship with University College. That internship opened up more opportunities, such as this blog. I continued on with summer classes and a full schedule in the fall. Now I am only one semester away from my degree.

Because I am a writing major I look forward to a career as a paid writer. One day in September I learned of a job where I could be a public information officer. Because of my background in safety as a school bus driver, my experience with writing for all types of media, and my college degree, I felt confident enough to apply. My first interview was with a panel of six people, and the second was a little less formal. The third was with the Chief himself. Part of me felt relieved the process was taking so long because the closer I was to the end of the semester before starting a new job, the better. My last interview was a week ago. Yesterday I still hadn't heard anything until I went home and saw the mail on the table. I could tell from the look on my husband's face the news wasn't in my favor.

But for me this is not the end of the world, it's just the beginning. At the same time I was waiting to hear about that job I was offered the chance to write for another organization's web site. I also learned of a fellowship opportunity for graduating seniors at SU which helps a student explore paid internships after graduation that can lead to a full-time career in the Syracuse area. The program provides students the opportunity to take graduate-level classes at SU related to their chosen field. I also know SU has a great career center, career fairs, and a large alumni network to help students succeed. Even though I didn't get the job I was so sure was my destiny, I know there is something better waiting for me.

Sometimes it feels strange to be so uncertain about my future and at the same time understand that I am in a good position. But this is what education does – it puts you in a good place despite life's adversities. It gives you choices and opportunities. But opportunity is not always going to find us; sometimes we need to find it. That is another thing college has taught me: if you want something better for yourself, then don't be afraid to go find it. Nothing is stopping you except your self-doubts.
Roxanne B