Job hunting sucks. There's no way around that. For my generation, we've learned that we don't need to get the perfect job, we just need A job. This is very sad considering we were brought up being told that we can do anything we set our minds to -- talk about a crock.
Three years ago, I graduated from college expecting that now that I actually have a completed Bachelors, getting a job wouldn't be a problem. Definitely not the case. I spent the entire final semester applying for jobs, in hopes that one of them would hire me. Again, definitely not the case.
In a last ditch effort, I took a job as a low-level campaign staffer. This experience, without a doubt, has grown to define me in many ways. I met some great people and had some invaluable experiences, ones that I hoped would help get me into the DC scene. Once again, definitely not the case -- and in many ways, it did the exact opposite. While we can never truly know anyone, even those that play for the tickling and snorkling team, hindsight is always 20/20.
Thankfully, the next campaign I worked for was incredible. This time, the people were really what defined the experience -- truly some of the most wonderful people anyone could ever hope to meet. Never have I ever worked for someone that made me feel so valued, than this candidate. For that, I will always be grateful -- an expression I share with him regularly.
On days like today, when I'm wallowing in my joblessness, I think back to what I could have done 3 years ago to have gotten a job. I recall cover letters and interviews I gave, emails I sent, the expectations I had. Then, I think of the people on that last campaign. Never, for anything, would I trade the time I had with them.
I'm sure many of you are doubting that last statement -- and that's normal. Doubt away. Aside from my trip to Biloxi, MS following Hurricane Katrina -- that was the best 6 months I ever had. The only thing that brings a bigger smile to my face would be my gorgeous 6 month old niece, Adele -- easily the cutest kid on the planet.
"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful."
--Herman Cain
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