I studied for three years at the University of Texas at Austin. Three years full of incredible lessons, experiences and people. It’s been 110 days since my graduation, and I have not applied for a single job, internship or fellowship.
I have decided to take a break. Not because I need to recharge after my time at UT. In all honesty, I could do three more years right now. Not because I just couldn’t find a job…You can’t really find something you’re not looking for right now. And not to spend time reading and binge-watching, though I have and will probably do again.
I’m taking this break from the routine. This is different since I’m a fan of the routine, of plans. Change, in fact, has always made me cry, especially if there’s a goodbye involved—
First day of kindergarten: cried. First day after moving to Texas from Florida: cried. First day of school in Texas: cried. First day living away from home: cried…Actually I cried various times throughout that first year as I adjusted.
Now, for the first time, I’m running towards change, welcoming it with arms stretched out not folded. I’m forcing myself to say goodbye to everything I know and the ones I love the most in hopes of finding out more about the world and, ultimately, myself. You would think this would terrify me. Instead, it scares and excites me just enough to assure me it’s exactly what I need to do.
How my worst-case scenario became my first choice
Traveling rather than working became an option in January of this year. It was around the same time one of the staff members at the magazine I had just interned with told me there was a fact-checking job available. I was ecstatic I had even been considered despite having no experience and, at the time, no degree. Yet, I made little effort to get it. I sent a resume but no cover letter. I didn’t hear back and didn’t follow up. When my mom (yeah heads up: I’m a momma’s girl through and through) asked about it, I told her, “Listen, worst case scenario come May is I have zero job offers but the chance to travel.” But the truth was it wasn’t the worst thing that could happen. It was what I was hoping for.
As the semester progressed, I didn’t apply for any other jobs. During the second half of my internship at a local news station, I admitted to one of the reporters about my desire to travel before working. “Do it,” he said without any hesitation. “You think you’ll just go later, but you won’t. You’re going to get tied down with bills, a job, a boyfriend and you won’t go. So just go.”
Sold. When I got off my shift, I called my mom and told her I would be leaving to Spain in the fall and traveling Europe with the money I had been saving the past three years.
A new beginning
About four months later, on August 24th, I finally bought my ticket to Barcelona.
I know that this is one of the hardest things I’ll do and so, hopefully, one of the most rewarding. Yet, I feel there’s a stigma against people who postpone starting a career. But I’m ignoring the confused looks and high eyebrows. Right now, I want to gain experience from new places and people, not an entry-level job. At the end of the day, my life, my decision.
The past two weeks have consisted of making lists, enjoying a few “lasts” before leaving and finally telling people. I’m one to keep plans a secret until they’re a sure thing (like I’m-already-on-the-plane-sure) because I’m scared if too many people know before it happens, the plans will fall through. But this time I’m seeking comfort in my belief that this is what I’m meant to do right now. It’s what I want.
“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” –The Alchemist, Paulo Cohelo
I am glad to hear that you are doing what you want to do. It has been years, nearly ten, since we have seen one another so I am unsure if you remember me. I just wanted to say that I wish you the best with your travels and I hope you find what you are looking for in your heart. Anyways, from an old friend to an old friend, I say for one of the final times…good bye and best of luck!
Of course, I do! I really appreciate this and cannot explain how much it meant to read. Thank you. Best of luck to you as well!