When One Door Closes...

I’d like to say that another door has finally opened for me. But this is only my second post, so how much could really change in a day? However, I have cracked a few more windows, including one involving a position that hasn’t even been posted yet but was given to me by a very close friend (One thing I’ve learned in this whole mess called the job hunt: it’s always good to have people on your side that can vouch for your abilities and your genuineness).

I also had some other professional breakthroughs. While I was accompanying a professor for a dedication ceremony, I was introduced to the Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at UD, who said he recognized my name from a number of things; he remembered reading my file for an award I was nominated for and said that what I’ve done is very impressive (yes!). Then I finally got a copy of the TRIAD, where I had an entire four pages dedicated to my thesis research. How ‘bout THAT for something professional to show during interviews?

Despite the fact that the economy totally stinks and the chance for a job is up in the air for practically anyone, I’m still holding on to the hope that my successes over the past four years at UD can work in my favor at one point. I have worked hard and stayed strong to achieve the things I have done as an undergrad, and I’m thoroughly proud of the marks I have made on UD (at least I’m hoping I’ve made good marks). I know plenty of people have acknowledged my accomplishments, and I sincerely appreciate it. But it’s not that I’m looking for waves of praise and compliments from potential employers. I just hope that something that I’ve done as an undergrad, whether it be the research that I’ve published, the students that I’ve taught, or even the repertoire that I’ve played, will be seen by someone as a mark of a promising teacher. I want someone out there to believe that I have a chance at making a mark on the youth of America. I may not believe in myself every day, but I hope someone in some administration out there will feel like it’s worth taking the chance with me. And despite my uncertainties and insecurities, I can say with confidence that I would do anything in my power from disappointing people.