LOOK MA, I’M EMPLOYED!

I did it! After about a year of searching, applying and interviewing (and feeling like a pathetic, unwanted waste of life…OK sorry, a bit dramatic), I finally received a full-time job offer! And it couldn’t be more ideal. Eek, knock on wood.

It involves two of my loves: writing and editing (no, sadly not Brad Pitt and chocolate, but still). It’s a five-minute drive from my apartment. And did I mention it’s full-time?! I never thought a 401(k) plan could produce so much happiness.

Although I admit that I performed pretty spectacularly in the interviews – probably thanks to my 8:30 a.m. time slot (yes, I’m one of those morning people normal people hate) – I must give much thanks and due credit to (1) Facebook and (2) my sorority. That’s right haters. No more judging Facebook stalkers or sorority girls (ha, disregard my previous post)…apparently they can both pay off (literally)!

Let me explain. One day, I happened to see a status update from a sorority sister who graduated a couple years before me. She asked if anyone was a “somewhat decent writer” and looking for a full-time job in the area. UMM HI! THAT’S ME! It had my name written all over it. So I messaged her to find out more and sent her my resume and application materials that night. She showed them to her boss the next day, and they called me a few days later.

So here I am. I’ve accepted the offer, given my two weeks notice at my current job, and even bought some new work clothes…yippee! Now all that stands between me and a benefits package is two weeks and a pee test (I’ll let you know how that one goes…I have a lot to say on the subject).

The best part is that my mood has lifted noticeably (I mean seriously, we’re talking a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde transformation here). Before receiving the job offer, I felt like an embarrassment to my family and friends. I realized that so much of my identity was based on being a good student for the past 17 years of my life. I was full of self-doubt. And the worst part was I had nothing to look forward to.

Now, I can look forward to rebuilding my sense of self in the workplace. I can also look forward to having true colleagues (something I lack in my current position). And I’m REALLY looking forward to 23 paid days off (even though, knowing myself, I probably won’t use them).

To those of you searching for full-time employment, hang in there. Setting small, achievable goals helped me to keep my spirits up along the way. I believe now, more than ever, that it’s all about being in the right place at the right time. The more people you know, the better (I’m talking to you, Facebook de-frienders). And if you want some reassurance that the economy is recovering, head to the mall. It was packed today!

Wish me luck in my pee test tomorrow.