Resignation

Last week I mentioned a possible job offer and how I was taking the appropriate steps to better prepare myself.

Well, I did in fact receive the job offer. You work so hard to present yourself and your skills in the best way to hopefully receive that job offer. What I didn't know was how I'd end up feeling actually getting the job offer.

The nerves that I didn't feel during the interview were officially live and present. I worked for this and I wanted this, so why was I so nervous?

I think it's normal to be nervous. Sure you wanted this but now you're realizing things are about to change if you accept the offer.

The routines you know and the day to day work you've done for over 3 years aren't going to be there anymore. You're going to work with new people and take on new tasks. You're going to work longer hours but also receive better compensation. There's a give and take that comes with accepting a new job. Does the reward of this new position outweigh the risk of leaving familiarity?

Friday, I called the owner and officially accepted this new position. I felt that I was ready to take on this new adventure and that this was going to be the best fit for me. I'm sure my voice was shaky as I told him my decision but his comment that I "made his Friday with this news" reminded me I was making the right decision.

While I felt so much excitement for what lies ahead with this opportunity, I felt this dread in the back of my mind for what I had to do come Monday morning.

I officially had to resign from my job this morning and state when my last day of work would be.

I think something has to be said when you dread resigning from a job.

Sure, it's awkward to tell someone you're leaving their company but that's not why I dreaded this talk. Some people jump at the opportunity to turn in their two weeks notice because they can't wait to get out of there. This wasn't the case for me either.

I actually enjoyed my job and specifically the people I work with.

I've gotten to experience and learn so many new things during my time here. I've made some great friends who made me look forward to coming to work every day. Sure there were times that sucked but that happens every where.

As I shared my news with my manager and co-workers, they told me how much they'd miss me but understood why I had chosen to leave. I'm glad I was able to have a positive impact on those around me while I was there.

Just a few more weeks until I start this new job. I can't wait to see where things go from here! As so many have told me, this is just another step in adulthood and "Welcome to the real world!".

Never Stop Learning

I wrote a while back about how I was finally graduating from college. On May 22nd, I walked across that stage and was recognized for earning my degree and graduating with honors.

It was a wonderful experience and one I will always remember, especially because I worked so hard for it.

This summer has felt so odd though not taking classes. That had been such a huge part of my routine for so long that I'm actually missing it now.

I've recently had the realization that just because I'm not taking classes doesn't mean I have to stop learning. We should never stop learning.

There's always going to be things out there that we don't know or could learn more about. If we keep ourselves closed off from experiencing new things or learning new ideas, we're keeping ourselves from progressing and becoming better versions of ourselves.

I've been looking for a full-time job now for quite a few months. It's been a process to say the least.
But I've been learning the entire time.

Each phone interview or in person interview gives me more experience and helps me to be better prepared for the next one. I've learned more about myself and my strong suits or areas where I could improve.

After meeting with a company last week regarding a job, I saw that if I was to get the position I'd end up taking on some work I have zero experience in.

For many that's terrifying and even a deterrent from continuing the pursuit of the position. For me, I chose to look at it differently. Yes, it still gave me an uncomfortable feeling. But I'm choosing to view it as more of a challenge than a setback.

It will show I'm a hard worker and can take the initiative before being asked. It shows that I'm resourceful and can find the answer to a problem even if I don't know it off the top of my head. It shows I'm flexible and willing to grow.

I'm a firm believer that if you want something bad enough, you'll work to get it. If I really want this job, I'll work to learn as much as I can so that I could do my job the best I possibly can.

You don't always have to learn from books, not everyone is a reader. Some people are better at learning visually or by doing things hands on. We're fortunate enough to find resources like these right on the web. I could have downloaded or purchased a textbook on the material but instead I found a video series that covers it. Find what works best for you.

Just remember to continue to learn in all things. Don't limit yourself as to what you're capable of.

Who knows, maybe I won't get the job but I'll have new knowledge and maybe even certification I can add to my resume. It's a win either way.

Penny Pincher

When you're a child you don't realize how many bills are going to exist when you become an adult. Adulting 101 isn't a class they teach you in high school. It's like you wake up one morning and BAM! there are all these bills you have to pay.

I do have a job, which means an income, but it's not the ideal salary. That's the territory that comes with a part time job. I am looking for a full time job but it takes time and a lot of effort.

Lately, I've been paying extra attention to the money I have, looking for the smartest way to spend it, and finding simple but effective ways to bring in more money without tacking on another job.

I figured I'd share some of the things I've been doing.

1. Write out a Budget

Writing out a budget has probably been the smartest thing I got in a habit of doing. For some people they can keep track of it all mentally but I've always been more of a visual learner. By writing it all down I'm able to see what I have, what I'll have coming in, and what will be going out. It shows you the kind of wiggle room you have once bills are paid off. It shows you what you have left to take a portion of and put away in savings.

2. Be a Smart Budget

I was raised to always be a frugal shopper.

- Wait for things to go on sale
- Use coupons
- Clearance sections should always be the first place you look
- Name brands really don't matter (they don't make you popular)
- Thrift stores, resale shops and yard sales are goldmines

These types of things were instilled in me from a very young age and I've noticed I have been applying them more to my life the older I get. I guess that's something that comes with age, an appreciation of a hard earned dollar.

Don't spend money on something you don't need. It's important to take care of your financial responsibilities first. If there's something you want, look at your budget (that's why it's tip #1!) and see how much you could start putting to the side to eventually purchase it. Sure saving up doesn't sound fun, but if you want that "something" bad enough, you'll take the time to get it the right way.

I can't begin to tell you how much coupons and thrift/resale stores keep money in your pockets. Coupons have always been a normal to me. Why spend more on an item when they put out coupons so you can spend less? The same goes for the thrift/resale stores. Yes, you will have to take a little extra time looking through them and possibly having to go to more than one to find what you're looking for. In the end it's usually worth it though. Here's an example...I was looking for extra cookie sheets and cooling racks. At a thrift store, I found a bundle of them (probably 10 altogether) and it cost me $6. I could have paid that for just one cookie tray at a regular store. WIN!

3. Poshmark

This is something I've been experimenting with.

Poshmark is a site where you can take pictures of clothing, shoes, and accessories you are looking to get rid of and list them for sale.

I've heard of a lot of people having success on here but so far it hasn't happened to me. It's something that does take time (which I keep reminding myself of). You have to photograph each item in an appealing way so that people will want to buy it. You then have to post each picture with a description of what it is you're selling and a price. In order to really have people see your items, you have to share your posts regularly on the site so that they stay relevant on follower's feeds.

I'm hoping that with the extra effort I'm putting in I'll see some results. This method intrigued me versus using Plato's Closet or thredUP because I get to choose the price to sell the item at.

4. InboxDollars

This is a site whose outcome has actually surprised me.

Most of my days at work are spent behind a desk and I will have dead times with little to no tasks to complete. I wanted to find something I could do online that wasn't difficult but would put my free time to good use. InboxDollars seems to be that answer.

It's the type of site where you take surveys, watch videos, listen to their radio programming (which usually just sits playing on a muted window) and receive a few emails a day. Sure each item doesn't pay much but over time it adds up.

I joined around the end of March/beginning of April. In order to cash out your earnings you have to make $30 (they automatically give you $5 to signup, it's free to join). A $40 check is on it's way to me currently and since my first cash out I've already earned about $19 of my next 30.

Clearly I'm doing something right because I didn't think I'd be making this much this quick. I do have more time than most in front of a computer and I'll continue to take advantage of it if it means an extra $30-40 a month

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 These are just a few things that have been working for me. Maybe give some of them a try and see How it affects your finances. If there are any other options or sites people have used to bring in a few extra bucks or save some money, feel free to share. I'd be happy to give them a try and possibly make them a part of the routine.

Till next week!

Delta Alpha Pi

For many of you, you probably read the title of this post and aren't familiar with what Delta Alpha Pi represents or think it's just your every day Greek society.

It's so much more than that.

Delta Alpha Pi (DAP) is an International Honor Society for students with disabilities. DAP was established to distinguish students who have attained superior academic records while managing personal setbacks. The mission of DAP is to recognize strength, achievement and pride in these students.
 
On April 27th I was inducted into the Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society - Gamma Alpha Chapter.

Surprise!!! That's right, I have a disability. It's not the kind of disability that's physical or easily seen. I suffer from learning disabilities.

It's not something I talk about or bring up often. Disabilities are automatically seen as a negative thing by so many. It's a stereotype that's been around for decades. I'm not ashamed of my disabilities but I've never wanted anyone to look at me differently or not allow me the same opportunities as others because I don't fit what's known as normal.

I faced adversity from the moment I questioned having a disability.

I'd always been a good student and good grades were normal for me. I remember being in high school and taking an AP (Advanced Placement) course and struggling. It was a subject I was known for being strong in, so why wasn't I understanding things? I remember going to my Mom and asking to make an appointment with my doctor because I felt something wasn't right. I've always known my body and mind well enough that I sensed something wasn't working correctly in my brain. We made the appointment and when we sat down with the doctor we were basically told I was just trying to cheat the system and get some medication. We pushed and pushed and the doctor finally said the best way to evaluate me was to have my teachers fill out a questionnaire about how I was in the classroom. Because I was never a problem child and didn't act out in class, none of my teachers could see how something could be wrong with me. I managed to push through my last year of high school but it was never easy.

When I got to college, things only became more difficult. Everything about college classes were different from what I'd known before. From the style of your classes to your tests and assignments. I was putting in my whole 110%. I wasn't that kid who went and partied from Thursday to Sunday. You could always find me in my dorm studying and taking notes. There wasn't time to have a life. My time had to be devoted to school and even then I wasn't seeing the grades and results I expected. How could I be spending countless hours putting in all this effort and still not get it? Half way through my sophomore year I'd had enough. I was tired of not getting anywhere. I told my parents I was taking a semester off and getting tested. Someway, somehow I was going to get an answer.

After extensive searching I finally found a doctor who was really willing to see what was going on. I remember having to go into her office and take different types of tests and answer so many questions for an entire day. It was tiresome and uncomfortable but I knew that if I wanted answers (which I did) I had to do it. About a week or two later we were called to come back and see what they'd found. Sure enough, they uncovered that I had ADHD and a few different learning disabilities. They weren't surprised that I was struggling in my classes based off of what they'd found. Going forward I would be able to present their report to my school and receive accommodations so that I could really give my best effort in class.

I can't begin to explain what a difference those accommodations made. People would think that my accommodations meant that things were easier for me. For example, "That test is going to be easier for her because she is given more time to take it." I'll be the first to tell you that way of thinking is wrong. Yes, I was given accommodations. It was proven that I needed them. But that didn't mean the rest of college was going to be a breeze for me. I still had to put more effort into my studies than most people would. Because of my disabilities, I have to work harder and longer than most people. The discomfort I had every time I had to walk into a classroom, take a test, or try and concentrate on what a professor was lecturing about...You can't understand how hard such simple tasks are for me to do.

Every semester I would meet with my teachers the first week of class to explain that I had a disability and would be needing accommodations. The first semester or two I had to do this I remember feeling so embarrassed because of the stereotypes associated with disabilities. After that I let go of the embarrassment. I accepted that by sharing the fact that I needed accommodations, I was really asking for help and that there was nothing wrong with that. Most schools have a department for students with disabilities. The school that I attended did and they were extremely helpful in making sure that my professors received the appropriate information to verify what accommodations I was to be given. I worked my butt off every semester and I was back to seeing the grades I was used to. I finally understood what was different about me and how to cope and manage as best as I could.

When I received the letter in the mail announcing I was chosen to join this honor society, I was touched. I didn't realize the society even existed but the fact that they recognized the hard work and superior grades I'd earned was a bigger deal to me than most people would probably expect. Because of how hard I would have to work to achieve the same thing as others, it meant a lot that someone was noticing and saw that I accomplished something that isn't easy for people with disabilities.

There are requirements that have to be met in order to be eligible to join this honor society. As an undergraduate student I had to:

• Present a documented disability and work with one of the faculty or staff members in the Office of Disability Services, or self-identify as an individual with a disability;
• Demonstrate an interest in disability issues.
• Completed a minimum of 24 credits;
• Earned an overall Quality Point Average of 3.10 on a 4.00 scale.

I have completed all the above requirements and then some.

That Wednesday night at the end of April I received my acceptance certificate, a pin and cords to wear at graduation. On my graduation day I will wear those cords with pride!

While this hasn't been something I've been very open about, I'm not ashamed of it either. I'm proud to represent all individuals that have a disability and show that we can still do things.

We are not helpless and we are not stupid.

We just take a little longer and have to work a little harder.

If you'd like to learn more about Delta Alpha Pi, feel free to visit this website:
http://deltaalphapihonorsociety.org/ 

From a Former Student

If you are a local reading this then you are most likely aware of the tragedy that occurred in our area yesterday. A 16-year old girl lost her life at school after being assaulted.

It's extremely sad what took place.

But if I'm being honest I can't say I was all that taken aback when I found out. For many, I'm sure your jaws just dropped at that comment. How could I say such a thing?

I can say it because I know first hand that incidents like this aren't rare in today's schools. Yes, most of the time they do not result in a death. But fights, especially severe ones, are nothing new in schools. More and more we're also seeing that it's females partaking rather than males.

I attended a high school that was known for fights. It was often a school referred to as ghetto and trashy. No one would ever come out and call it unsafe but you certainly never heard anyone call it a safe place either. You'd enter school every day and silently ask yourself, "I wonder what will happen today".

Fights were common and in the end you'd usually hear it was over something stupid. A boy/girl, drugs, he said/she said, and false rumors.

When a fight broke out, instead of trying to get away from it to prevent yourself from getting caught in the crossfire, everyone would swarm to see what was going on. They wanted to see it all firsthand and would even egg on the participants trying to get a better show.

It was the responsibility of disciplinarians, an onsite cop (if your school had one), and faculty members (if they felt comfortable enough) to step in and try to break up the fight and diffuse the situation.

After yesterday, my question is this...When does enough become enough?

I'm tired of people being naive of what's taking place in these schools and on the streets.

I graduated from high school 7 years ago. Things like this were happening then and prior. They've only continued to get worse.

Things need to change.

Our kids need to feel safe going to school. They go to school to receive an education, not to be bullied, bashed, and beat down by peers.

It's time for the parents at home to step up and be an example for their children. I truly believe that stopping this begins in the home.

Children do the things they do because you've let them know they can get away with it or they've watched you do the exact same thing. If you get away with it, why can't they? Take the time to explain that physical violence isn't the answer. Petty drama isn't what this world is supposed to revolve around. There are much more important things to be focused on like bettering yourself and working towards a positive and happy future.

Today's generation has no concept of what consequences are. Unfortunately, the girls who chose to beat a 16-year old girl to death will now find out the consequence the hard way.

I don't expect things to change over night. It will take the work of so many to make a difference. People need to stop turning a cheek and realize these issues need to be addressed. They've been issues for at least a decade now and unless things change, it's not going to stop. People shouldn't have to fear what their kids will face when they are older and can attend school. It should say something about the world we live in when you're scared to bring new life into it.

Wake up and realize what is taking place. Let's make the difference so that future generations don't have to worry about things like this.

Drawing a Blank

A little over a week ago I learned of someone reading my blog and that they thoroughly enjoyed it.

I was touched by it. I can't see who reads my posts let alone know how people react to them. It makes me happy though knowing that others have enjoyed what I shared. And while this was such a nice compliment to me, I felt bad at the same time.

I haven't written much, despite how much I enjoy doing this. I do, truly, enjoy writing posts. There seem to be some hiccups though that have kept me from writing.

Sometimes I just draw a blank. I can't think of anything to say.
Sometimes I don't think others will relate to a topic or care to read about it.
Or the topic is too controversial. I'm not trying to start a war on here.

I need to be better about it all.

I need to not make assumptions of how people will react and instead just write. Take the thoughts rolling around in my head and put them to paper (or in this case the computer). It's when I do this that I tend to get the best reactions from people. And when there isn't much going on upstairs, look for things to write about it that cause me to think and come up with something.

I make a vow to hopefully be better at this blog. To dedicate more time to it since it does bring me joy. I hope to be more carefree and open.

I'll give an update tomorrow with a more filling blog post.

Till tomorrow!

Goodbye College

Last night, at 10:10pm, I submitted my final college assignment. I'm not talking in the sense of I've completed this semester and will be back at it next semester. No, I mean I'm DONE. I have officially completed college and will graduate in May.

It was extremely odd to sign on my computer this morning and not have to log in to see what assignments were going to be due this week or what chapters I have to read. This class I just finished was the hardest I've had and it really tested whether I deserved my degree. It's one thing to take classes and pass them. It's another to take everything you've learned and apply it. That was what I had to do for this class. I had to take all my knowledge from my IT classes and apply it to a company (thanks Uncle Will). I'm proud knowing I rocked this class and that I can actually do everything I've learned. It's surreal to know that the end is here. 

This is something that has been a long time coming. For those that don't know, I didn't take the usual 4 year route. This journey started back in 2009 and it's been a roller coaster. There was a time when I wasn't sure if I'd actually get to this point. Somehow, someway, everything came together and I did it. It's finally here.

I wouldn't be here though without the help of some very important people. And to those people I'd like to say thanks...

Alex - My girl... You've been there since before day 1. I'll never look at a universal remote the same, let alone a pink one. If I didn't have you by my side, I have no idea how I could have done all this. You've seen the crazy ups and downs college can put a person through and you've always supported me. Who knew that a random roommate pairing Freshman year would end up changing our lives forever. From a million whiteboards, to the Chinese delivery man knowing us personally, Harry E, concerts, cries, laughs, french fries, Gilmore Girls, Rosanne, Everybody Loves Raymond, Grottos, DP dancing, to so much more. It's no wonder you're my maid of honor and sister.

Josh - You've seen me want to throw in the towel out of frustration so many times. Your motivation and support has meant a lot. Those nights where I'm ready to throw my computer across the room in frustration and you continuously cheer me on. You're always telling me that "I've got this" and reminding me that I'm almost done. You continue to push me as I look for a full time job. Reminding me not to settle and to go after what I want and what I deserve. I love you and I'm so grateful to have you by my side.

My Family - I always appreciated everyone asking how school was going and telling me congratulations when I shared a good grade or semester. You all have always been there and supported me. Thanks!

Mom & Dad - Wow, where do I even begin. Nothing I can say here will truly express how grateful and thankful I am for you two and the continued support you've given me. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you two. You both always instilled in me the importance of school from a young age. You've always pushed me to strive towards things I didn't think I was capable of doing. You saw my nervousness of trying something new freshman year. You watched me barely stay above water when Sophomore year was complete crap and I had to move back home. Instead of thinking I was just looking for a way out of school, you trusted me when I said I needed to take a semester off and get tested for ADD. You've been patient and supportive. I didn't take the usual route and you both have never complained about that. You've always known that I could do this and you had no problem reminding me. You've allowed me to vent when teachers have been pricks or I worked my butt off and didn't get the grade I thought I deserved. Dad always knew when to bring me ice cream because he wouldn't see me for hours because I'd be up to my neck in a huge paper. You both always ask what I'm learning about and show interest, even if you don't always understand what I'm saying. You both get a sparkle in your eye and a huge smile every time I tell you I got a good grade on an assignment, test or in a class. Seeing how proud you were of me when I eased my way back into school and succeeded. That I've continued to succeed. Knowing I've made you both proud has been the biggest motivation. Most of the time, it's the only motivation I need. Making you two proud is all I've wanted to do. When I walk across that stage and receive my diploma, it'll be just as much for you two as it is for me. I guess that will be my way of saying thank you.

So where do I go from here? Many are curious if I'll go for my Masters. Unless the money becomes available for it, it isn't going to happen.

Now, it's time to plan our wedding!!! :)

Twists & Turns

Wow, it's been a while since I've written. I guess that's what happens when you're so busy with life. The last 2-3 months have been crazy but not as crazy as the last week.

You know those times in life where you wonder if you can really take anything else being added to your plate? We've all said, "I can't deal with another one of these" or "There's no way I can handle another project". There's tons of scenarios. And then someway, somehow, that something else gets added to your plate.

It always ends up feeling like a test to me. A test of my strength and ability to persevere.

When that "straw that breaks the camel's back" happens, the gut reaction is to stress and over think things. Maybe I'm the only one like that. It never seems to fail tho. I can tell myself numerous times "Don't Stress" when that bomb gets dropped and I usually just end up stressing more.

Every scenario starts playing in your head. You try and imagine every possible thing that could happen next and create a game-plan for each one. Don't ask me why this ends up happening, I can't explain it. I think people take comfort in the idea that if they think of every possibility first, whatever ends up happening next can't surprise them because they'll have already thought of it.

It's one thing to be worried or concerned. It's another to over think.

Over thinking just leads to a mess. Your head isn't in the best state to think rationally. You become irritable. You're already emotional. Small tasks start feeling like large tasks. It all adds up and turns into a ball of yuck. Before ya know it, your bad attitude starts rubbing off on other people which leads to arguments and frustration. I said it was a mess, remember?

We have to learn to step on the brake and stop the downward spiral. Track records show the normal process of stressing doesn't do any good, so it's time we change that habit. Over thinking won't change whatever happens next, it's likely going to happen either way. Life will always throw us twists and turns, we just have to take them one step at a time.

Save the emotional energy to plan and tackle the actual facts, not the what-ifs. Keeping your emotions in check will actually allow you to clearly think things through when the time comes. Continue to believe in the things you know to be real and important. Focus on those things until something can actually be done.

If you did get sucked into the do not enter zone called over thinking, it's okay, we've all done it. Take the time to reflect over the last few days or however long. Things probably haven't been going the way you thought and you may have even said some things you didn't mean or didn't think through. (I told you it's hard to think rationally during all this)  Apologize to those you may have hurt or offended. Try to relax and face what's ahead in a better way.

Maybe this will help you the next time a situation like this comes up. Maybe you're in a situation like this right now. Either way, stop being a worry wart.

Till next time!

2016

Let me start off by wishing everyone a Happy New Year!

Yes, I know it's already January 4th, but better late than never, right?

A new year is an exciting thing. Many see it as a fresh start. For me, it makes me reflect more on the year that just ended versus the one that is starting. 2015 was a great year for me. The list is so long I can't even put it all here. So many changes, lots of love, happiness & things that are just downright good. There were even things that didn't involve change. Sometimes consistency can be just as rewarding.

People seem to always associate a new year with major changes. You all know what I'm talking about...new year's resolutions.

I've seen it all over social media the last few days...."New Year, New Me".

Really?!?!

We all know how new year's resolutions really end up... You make this list of everything you're going to change and do differently this year but in about a month you've probably already forgotten about that list. I'm not trying to be rude but I'm almost certain statistics on the subject would agree with my statement.

Don't get me wrong...I'm all for changes and wanting to make improvements in yourself, but why does that only have to take place at the start of a new year? What makes that day any better than today or tomorrow?

You should want to improve yourself every day. We are given every day to wake up and make the best of what's in front of us. Sure, it's a new year. But guess what, today is a new day and tomorrow will be too. Same concept, you just don't have to wait 365 days to get to it.

Make your goals realistic and attainable. Start small and work up to larger goals if you need to. Often we set ourselves up for failure at the very beginning by being too vague in what it is we want to accomplish or we pile too much on our task list. Remember that there are only so many hours in a day.

I hope you make the best of the year that's ahead of us. More importantly, I hope you make the best of every day. Of course I have things I'll be working on this year. This isn't a "don't have goals" post. Most of my goals are to continue ones I'm already fulfilling or taking the next step on goals I've been working on. I don't need to start from square one to feel I've accomplished something this year. As long as I'm progressing, happy, and healthy, I'll know I'm moving in the right direction.

I wish the same for you! :)