Bright Eyed

On June 13th I strutted my stuff to the tune of pomp and circumstance proud of my accomplishment of being the first person in my family to earn a Masters degree. I received that validating piece of paper with the knowledge that I could not have done it without the friends and family who supported me in so many ways throughout the years. I had the belief on that day, that even in the midst of a recession, I'd find a job. I'd make my family proud doing something I love, no problem.

I began sending resumes months before graduation to prospective employers in the hopes of finding that dream job...you know the one that would allow me to pay off my $80,000.00 in loans AND help me make the world a better place? I was living in Los Angeles when I started applying but knew I'd be moving back to Pittsburgh, so I focused my efforts there.

Now mind you, I have a Masters of Arts in Theology and a Bachelors degree in Fine Art-two highly unmarketable degrees unless you are REALLY focused and determined in either field, which as it turns out, I may not be. As it is, it's what I have to work with at the moment. Most of the jobs I looked for were in the non-profit or higher education sector. I do love working with college students. I also think I am a pretty amazing advocate when it comes to being a voice for the disenfranchised.

Chatham University (three positions), The University of Pittsburgh (three positions), Carlow, Point Park, the YWCA, CASA, The Pittsburgh Promise, Carnegie Museums, Phipps Conservatory, the Federal Government, the City of Pittsburgh, Goodwill Industries and The Beehive (a coffee shop) are just a few of the places who have received my credentials, references, cover letters, and hopes and dreams. So far I had one interview. Just one, and it either went really well, or I bombed I can't tell(more on that later).

It has been about 6 months since I started looking for work, and I have to tell ya, I AM EXHAUSTED!!! It is mentally, spiritually, and even physically draining to apply and apply and apply, and not get a single call back (well, except for that one). It is really hard not to take it personally, and really hard to keep the momentum going in order to keep searching. I know how to write a confident cover letter and resume. I know how to use spell check. I know that the jobs I apply for, I am qualified for. So what is the deal?

I realize that the job market is more competitive right now because of the slagging economy, but SHEESH!!! So I've come up with a mantra that I will say every day: My worth is not determined by my employment status...My worth is not determined by my employment status...my worth is not determined by employment status...Ommmmm.