Job Search

[the_bell_jar]

I've been trying so hard to find a job and have been focusing on jobs that I REALLY want, such as mentoring college students (I'd love to find a position mentoring queer, first-gen, or otherwise marginalized students) or working at a non-profit that focuses on marginalized populations. It's been months and I've started to think about applying for just ANYTHING, but I know that if I do that I'll be ridiculously unhappy. So, I'm thinking about revamping my resumé, seeing if I can do some networking (so difficult for this introvert), and keep applying.

However, I'm also pretty set, now, on returning to grad school for a PhD at the end of next year (if I'm accepted, of course - then again, I already have some good networking going on there). SO, the question is, do I focus on a job that fits in order to get some experience doing what I love and that may benefit me after graduating with a PhD, OR do I just take anything to have some income and be able to buy a car that isn't falling apart?

IDK?!

Comments

[dreamy_dragon73]

I so hear you. I think if you can afford it, go for a job that fits/is what you want to do/gives you options.

[waketosleep]

I have pretty much always gone the latter route, for better or for worse. Damn bills. :/

There's the third option? It is a real thing that it's easier to find work if you're already working, so if you're jobless right now, grabbing whatever position to get some income right away (and, ideally, a schedule that allows you to keep looking) means you don't have to tell hiring people you're currently unemployed and can give you a bit of a leg-up on getting a job you actually enjoy. The end of next year is still a ways away, after all. Regardless, good luck! Job hunting is the worst.

[the_bell_jar]

True. I'm thinking of going the substitute teacher route and just keep looking. I could have taken a job with a small family business, making less than is sustainable, but I know I would have felt an obligation to them once I was there for a while.

[waketosleep]

Ugh, yeah, those jobs are hard to disentangle yourself from. Worse if they like you!