Another Vote for Washington Accelerated Learning Resources

Another Vote for Washington

Sometimes you win by losing and succeed by failing. It is paradoxical, yes, but the human experience is mysterious in that way. We are so accustomed to having a plan, executing it and reaping the benefits. When this is not the case, we begin to question ourselves. Self-doubt, though unnerving, is normal and healthy—within reason. We all have to muster enough courage from time to time to assert ourselves in taking risks and making difficult decisions. The break between semesters proved to be exactly this moment of self-reflection.

Phoenix had always been an option in my post-graduation plans. This changed after my trip there a few weeks ago. The city I knew for my entire life has changed too much—and not for the better. The Great Recession has taken its toll on the psyche of Phoenicians. Unemployment and foreclosures, budget cuts and hyperpartisan politics have all created an unfortunate environment of uncertainty and frustration. Of course, the ongoing immigration debate only fuels the anxieties. I hope this episode is broken soon.

With all of this in mind, I decided to drop Phoenix from my job search. This was not an easy decision. My family, high school friends, former colleagues and mentors are all there. But I was already having trouble finding employment opportunities that fit my interests and overall career objectives. I could see myself eventually returning to Arizona, ideally before I would be qualified as a snowbird.

Coincidentally, my Doha option fell through recently as well. I made it to the first round of interviews, but I received a brief, polite e-mail notifying me that I would not be hired. Within a matter of weeks, the meta-structure of my job search altered dramatically. A small panic ensued which prompted a series of intense thinking days. I talked through my plans, goals and options with friends. Ultimately, this helped me clarify how to proceed in the next few weeks and months. I also realized that once the job situation has been solidified, I will need to find a place to live that is both comfortable and affordable, so that adds a new element of urgency to my final semester of college.

I am now in the next phase of my job search. I am focusing exclusively on the Washington, D.C., area. This is a truly great city for young professionals. It is also cosmopolitan and diverse, which makes beginning a career an incredibly exciting endeavor. Just as my Phoenix and Doha plans collapsed, my D.C. strategy took form. With a new Congress in town, there are many opportunities on Capitol Hill. Since I hope to base my career here, I think it is worth having work experience here as a credential. After talking to current and former professors, advisers and friends, I have gathered a few leads; one has already evolved into an interview. I am both hopeful and cautious about my new outlook.

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