Gypsy Life

I love the Lady Gaga song 'Gypsy'. Ever since I heard it I felt I could relate.. This particular verse kind of sums up my California dream and adventure.

So I just packed my baggage and
Said goodbye to family and friends
And took the road to nowhere on my own

Like Dorothy on a yellow brick
Hope my ruby shoes get us there quick
'Cause I left everyone I love at home

And I don't wanna be alone forever
But I can be tonight
I don't wanna be alone forever
But I love gypsy life

And it's true, I do love the gypsy life but there are several components you need to be happy. I thought I needed career fulfillment and adventure so I went about as far away in the U.S. as I could to find it.. But I had no one in my circles.. I met some awesome people and am glad to know them but it just wasn't the same. So, I am now living in Charlotte, NC with my family.  A major cause of the move is because my mom has to have surgery soon and while her illness is not very severe it was very concerning to me. I hated knowing that I could not fly home if something should happen. Plus, I really do have amazing friends and while we do not live in the same city it is nice to know that I can visit them. It's lot easier to communicate being in the same time zone as well! It was not an easy decision to leave California and resign from my second job in 5 months.. In fact I believed this made a failure and it just did not feel like me because I am a very committed person. But life is about more than tending to yourself and making money. So here I am in my parents townhouse, helping out with their move to Charlotte and helping my mom. I am a bit panicked about finding another job and being taken seriously. But I am a hard worker and have a lot to bring to the table so I just have to find the right fit since a work place is your home away from home.

I personally love change, but I also love a solid foundation and support system. I hope that I can find my foundation here in Charlotte and find change in other aspects of my life. I am so grateful for the experiences I have had, for the opportunity to learn about myself and to learn what is truly important in my life. I think that we put too  much pressure on ourselves to graduate, start a career and stick with it getting promoted over 30 years because that is the image of success that we have been given... But I don't buy into that. Success is being happy and surrounded by people you love. You do have to have an income and should be driven to continually learn and move up.. but a 20 year career can come once experience is gained in these first few years after graduating. I do not think it is a bad thing that I am experiencing different positions early on and learning what I do and do not want out of a job. In the end I will be able to be more successful in the work place because I will find what I love to do and enjoy going into work everyday. Although I am hoping that 3rd time is the charm and that I find a company and position I really love here in Charlotte. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Until next time!
Alyssa

P.S. I cannot believe it has been 2 months since my last post! But in all honesty... you didn't miss too much! I'll post pics of California once I get them off my phone, I did see some beautiful sites!

The Weekend Update

I have been in California for 2 weeks now! It's already been one month since I accepted this job. Hard to believe! Life is just moving at warp speed. The old saying is true, "time flies when you're having fun"!

Last week I was at USC where we did a water conservation pledge. We got a really awesome volunteer! She helped us table one day and was just super sweet. I hope that she stays involved and enjoys it. She was a freshman from India! I love meeting new people and learning about their background and culture. It's the best. Friday we worked from the office and just did planning stuff. It was really productive. I love how calculated and goal oriented this job is. I feel very prepared to do my job successfully.

This weekend was so much fun! Friday after work we went to this sushi place near the office that does happy hour everyday where certain rolls are half off, genius idea and absolutely delicious! Then the ladies and I went out dancing. It took a while to find a place but when we got there we had a great time! They had a photobooth that allowed you to take pics and email them to yourself (for free!), so that was a lot of fun. Only thing I didn't like was that my Malibu Bay Breeze was $11... So much for a splash of cheap rum and some juice! But they know people will pay it and there were a lot of people working who need to get paid livable wages, and there was no cover charge so maybe that's factored in. Anyways! I love my coworkers, they are so intelligent, caring, and fun! I already feel like I can talk to them about anything and they get it. It's great.

Saturday I just lounged around all day, did some work, and finished Orange is the New Black. It was a lovely and relaxing day!

Then today one of our coworkers who works in the grants department had us over for a BBQ! She was so gracious and had a variety of food for us-- delicious roasted corn and avocado salad, turkey/beef/veggie burgers, sausages, watermelon, and ice cream sandwiches. It was a perfect Sunday afternoon. We all told our stories as to how we got involved with The Public Interest Network so it was great to hear what inspires everyone and the different paths their lives have taken. The hostess has been in the network for 20 years and another woman (who hosted us last week) has been a part of it for 30 years. I want to learn more from them and more about what motivates them to live a life of activism.

Then I got to talk to my family briefly today and that was great! My mom has to undergo surgery soon on her esophagus so please keep her in your positive thoughts or prayers to whatever you believe in. It isn't anything mayor but she is very uncomfortable and surgery is....well surgery. My mom is the most thoughtful person I know and I hate thinking of her in pain... but she has a lot of good karma built up and has a lot of faith so I know everything will go smoothly and her recovery will be quick.

This week I will be canvassing.. which means I will be going door to door educating people and asking them to become members. I am kind of excited because this will really push me out of my comfort zone and because we are educating on a really great cause, but I'm also really nervous! People kind of scare of me because they can be cruel and I want everyone to be nice and like me! I'm silly. We are canvassing on the misuse of antibiotics on factory farms. I think I wrote about it while I was in training, but I'll give you the overview of the campaign. 70% of antibiotics available for human use in the U.S. are given to animals through their feed. So perfectly healthy animals are pumped with antibiotics even though they are not sick. This is allowing for superbugs to emerge that are now resistant to antibiotics that treat common illnesses- like pneumonia. The Center for Disease Control says that we could be entering a post-antibiotic era... which is scary! I know that antibiotics have healed me many times. The thought of them becoming ineffective because they allow animals to grow quicker (and get sick less often from the horrible conditions they are in) for profits makes me angry. So I am glad I get to work on this campaign because this needs to be addressed now. I'm going to keep that in mind as I knock on doors and start to feel uncomfortable. I want my little brother to be healed as quickly and easily as I have been my whole life so he is going to be my inspiration.

You know, I'm really enjoying myself.. I'm surprised by how much I love L.A. Everyone has been so friendly and I have not felt unsafe! I don't have to be into work until 11:30 a.m. this week so I am planning on going exploring before work. Tuesday I want to go to the Getty- an art museum! Well that is all from my midnight weekly update!

I keep thinking of "Oh the places you'll go". Thank you Dr. Seuss for inspirational stories and imagination!

I hope that everyone has an amazing week! Happy Monday. :)

Much love,
Alyssa

California Week 1!

Last week I packed up my bags and was driven to the airport by my family to fly to San Francisco. It was definitely hard to say "see you later" to my family, but I was immensely excited to come to the West Coast! I stayed strong during the goodbye but definitely teared up in the security line, then later on the plane. It takes a lot of strength to quit a good thing, and put distance between your loved ones, but it's definitely been worth it. The past week I have never felt like I was at work. It was so much fun! I helped get pledges in Berkley for 2 days, worked in the office on full-time recruitment, then flew down to L.A. to work at USC for the next 3 weeks on their recruitment drive. I love my coworkers and we have met some cool students! Today I get to visit Irvine! A PIRG worker that I'm staying with while in L.A. is the former chapter chair of Irvine so he is bringing me to meet the students I'll be working with! I am really excited. I think it will be great to hear even more input about the school and to hear about their vision for the year. Part of the next 3 weeks will be spent on me creating the schedule for each week this term. We have big goals to hit so I'm preparing how we are going to hit them.

Aside from work I've gotten to do some fun things! My coworker, Danny, was commuting from Moutainview to Berkley so I rode down with him last Tuesday so that I could see my friend Tyler! It was great to catch up with him and meet his mom. We enjoyed some really conversation even though it was a really short visit. Then yesterday I enjoyed some delicious fish tacos and watched Orange is the New Black, just felt like relaxing because I did work long days this week some of which was in this 90 degree Southern California weather. Then today I hiked the 2 miles up to Griffith Observatory! It was quite a trek... Plus I was silly and did not just 1 but 3 "no-no" things to do for a hike. I ate Chinese food/frappaccino right before, was wearing flip flops, and didn't bring water. It was rough. But it was worth it! I was proud for persevering and making it to the top even though I really really wanted to turn around. The views of L.A. were beautiful from up there and the observatory is incredible. It was build in 1935 and encompasses great history, space, art and architecture. James Dean's Rebel Without A Cause was filmed there which made my dad excited. Made me want to see a James Dean because I've never seen one. Luckily I'm in the land of cinema! A coworkers husband just worked on a movie with Andrew Garfield. That was cool to hear about. It's called 99 Homes. It's about foreclosed homes, and I want to see it now.

Anyhow! Things are really great! I Skyped my beautiful family today and have been in great contact with all of the people in my life who are steadfast and continually support me. I just feel so blessed that I am able to be here.. and that I'm healthy and happy! Just enjoy where you are and be in the present, that's what I've learned.

I'll keep you posted on how things are going! However, I'll be pretty darn busy so I don't know how often I'll be posting, but I'll try to stick to the title of the blog.

Much love and happiness,
Alyssa

End of training!

The past 2 weeks have been so much fun! I have learned a tremendous amount, made really good friends, bonded with the California team, witnessed the power of a conversation, and feel absolutely empowered. I am going to be working on registering students to vote, educating the community on water saving tips, and our lead campaign is getting the city of Irvine to "go solar"! There are a lot of facts that can make things look really bleak, but luckily the organization looks at the positive and finds solutions! I wish things in politics weren't such a long process and we could change things immediately... but that's democracy. And I'm thankful that this country was founded as a democracy.

I just love how life works out sometimes. If you would have told me a month ago that I would be moving to Southern California to be an organizer I would have told you, "Ummm I don't want to live in Southern California and what exactly is an organizer?" It's amazing how everything can change and how you can stumble upon something. I loved my time at Stetson, it was the home I needed after I moved from Louisiana. Transitioning out of it was hard because I did not know what I wanted to do, if what I wanted to do even existed, and hated the thought of leaving my home. But I am ready for this chapter of my life. It is time to move along and experience life! The most growth I've ever had was during the times of transition. I always learn more about myself, gain strength, meet amazing people, and become a better person because of it. I think everyone needs to step outside of their comfort zone and experience a total change at some point in their lives. It may be scary at first, but its a lot of fun and worth it!

I didn't think I would like L.A. but I've learned some cool things about it that make me excited to check it out! The number one thing I'm excited about is that the Ellen DeGeneres show is there! Ahhhhh I wanna be in the crowd one day! Other things I'm excited about are the eclectic, diverse food; Disneyland; Universal; trapeze at Santa Monica pier. It'll be a cool area to explore!

Now I am just waiting on my plane to head to Raleigh for a few days! Get to hang out with the family until Sunday and will then fly to San Francisco from there. I'll be in San Francisco area through the 29th, then in L.A. until Sept. 21st helping start the recruitment drives and work at the University of Southern California. I'll be working 12 hour days most of the time, so it will be really busy! But really exciting! I'm excited to meet some cool students who are eager to join our efforts. The best part about SGA was meeting students who were empowered and ready to make Stetson a better place and helping them realize their potential. I'm so excited to be able to do that for a career!

If you're like me and don't exactly know what an organizer is you can check out this blog about organizing! It is written by a former CALPIRG student who now works for the nonprofit, Cause. I have briefly skimmed it but like this article that is in response to a study about how politics in the US are influenced by the extremely wealthy. If I give off the vibe that I am opposed to be wealthy, I am not. I would like to make money just as much as the next guy, but I don't want to make more than humanly possible to spend in one lifetime. Everyone in this country could be a millionaire yet we have extremely impoverished communities because a tiny fraction of the population holds a majority of the wealth. Watch the documentary "Inequality For All". Most people stay in the social class they are born into because it is hard to get out of it. The American dream is diminishing and that is a tragedy. Anyways! Here's the blog.
Blog on Organizing

I'll write when I'm in California! Hope everyone has a wonderful week!

Love,
Alyssa

The Why

There is a great Ted Talk about the golden circle (I highly recommend watching it, especially if you want to be leader- How Great Leaders Inspire Action). In summary the golden circle idea is that you must first start with "why" not "what". A businesses/movement/person starting with what doesn't inspire any action and there may not even be a why. But if you have a story, a  purpose, and start with why you will inspire and it will lead to greater connection with people.

The past few days of training we have been working on developing our story... if we don't know why we are an activist then this may not be the right path for us. In order to inspire people to join a cause you must be connected to it and genuine.  So, I've been thinking a lot about what drives me and why I want to work for the Public Interest Network. Since I have someone in my life that doesn't fully understand why I chose this path, I decided I would share my story so that I can help people make sense of why in the world I changed to a minimum wage job way out in California all on a one week notice (and 3 weeks of knowing about the job/research).

Once upon a time in a small Southern town there lived, me. Ever since I was a little girl I was taught that I could do whatever my heart desired, and that I should use my life to help others. There are a lot of things that I think are "wrong" in the world, and I think the solution to many of these inequalities is an effective government. The government should be working in the interest of the people and ensuring that each citizen has equal opportunity to education, jobs, and health, among other things. Today I am sad to say that I believe we do not have an effective government and that the people's voices no longer matter. I think this is a societal problem in general because a majority of people are acting in their own self interest. However, the leaders of this country are suppose to be just that, leaders. Not corporate sell outs that work in government to boost their own self image and wallet. And I apologize for making a generalization because public service is difficult and there will always be criticism, but if you look at the amount of corporate donations to campaigns and the correlation of this to voting patterns (within the House/Congress) this phenomenon is very real. I find that wrong, unnecessary, and infuriating. I live in a single income home, and my dad works extremely hard to provide for our family... we do not have a lot of discretionary income to put towards a campaign we believe in but that should not make our voice any less than someone with money (1 person, 1 vote). Plus, why would we donate if a wealthy special interest pays off our legislator to vote against a policy we believe in anyways? I receive emails about 4 times a day from political parties asking me for money in order to win campaigns because the other party is outspending us 2 to 1... and that's all the email says. Nothing about where the money will go, what the candidates believe, where I can help get involved with the campaigns... just spend the money now so we can even play the politics game against the other person since they have the money. This is NOT a game and I refuse to do nothing to stop it. There are very important issues that affect our health, income, and the planet that are being over looked because of low, mudslinging politics and dirty deals. Lately everyone is in the business of pointing fingers and bickering... But PIRG is in the business of realizing there are more problems than we should tolerate, and more solutions than are utilized. After being with my new trainees and people that have been with PIRG for 5-30 years I see that this organization genuinely cares about educating the public on the issues and providing facts in an ethical manner. Integrity has been brought up on many occasions and is the foundation of this training. This work is definitely not meant for everyone.. it will be long hours but the results will be long term. I have had so many people invest time and love in me to make my world a better place so I want to do that for everyone else. I think I owe it to the people that got me here to help others reach this point in their lives.

Also,  I have lived a very privileged life. I have never been wealthy but I have also never been without. Anytime I needed something I had the means to get it. I know how to budget but I don't know how to be frugal or what it means to live pay check to pay check.. and I want to know what that's like. I want to understand how a majority of people in the world live (even though I will still be better off than a majority of people). I'm not saying there is anything bad with having a high paying job, living in a nice house or taking vacations... I'm just saying I want a different perspective. That is something I have wanted to do for a while now. I'm sure I'll call my parents needing something every now and then and I'm fortunate to have their support, but I'm really going to limit it since I've relied heavily on them my entire life and particularly the past 4 years.

Anyways! I think this is a great thing for me and I feel so proud that I am actually living my values instead of talking about them. I am optimistic but I also see the realities of the journey I have embarked on. So that's my story and I'm sticking to it. I hope that you follow your values and allow them to lead your life. Too often we measure success by the amount of your salary and that is not what matters in life.. the number in our bank account is not what we reflect on at the end of our lives and are thankful for (at least I don't think so...).

So I hope you understand my story and that part of it has resonated with you!

Best wishes and much love,
Alyssa

P.S. This week I challenge you to really think about a passion you have that you haven't found time for lately. Take that passion and pledge a certain amount of time each week/month/year to fulfill your passion!

Public Interest Network Training!

I am in Boston for training for my new job and it is going sooooooooo great! I love the way training is laid out, the people I've met, and I am really looking forward to starting my work at UC Irvine!

Everyone is compassionate and on the same page about these huge, profound issues that the public should be made aware of--like climate change, antibiotics in animal feed, water conservation, and bringing campaigns back to the people (and not to corporations).

It is all very exciting! I am really glad and thankful to be here.

I would write more, but I'm exhausted and have more training ahead of me tomorrow!

Wishing you all happiness and contentment,
Alyssa

Long time no talk

Hello everyone,

So it's been almost a month since I've written a post! I've been meaning to write one, but things have been pretty busy. I went to St. Pete again the weekend of July 18. It was a perfect weekend again with Mary. We walked downtown and bought beautiful art. Prepared for the wedding. It was lovely. Then the next weekend I headed to Pensacola for the Bachelorette Party. Of course that was a lot of fun and I enjoyed getting to know Mary's high school friends! She has some amazing women in her life. Everyone was unique but at their core they were genuine which is hard to find. We had a fun time. Sunday I headed to North Carolina. Had an interview with a marketing consulting firm on Monday (it starts with sales then leads to a management role..kind of interesting but I don't really think it's for me). It was a group interview there were 8 of us and I was offered a position. I accepted but think I'm going to have to call back and decline. I would not enjoy that job even though I could make good money doing it. I convinced Mom and Austin to come back to Florida with me so they could help me pack up because today is my last day at Brown & Brown. It's been a good 10 weeks, but since this is not a long-term thing for me and I want to get out of this area my boss and myself felt it better for me to go ahead and resign. It's like I was an intern again this summer, but that's okay. I'm glad I tried it and am appreciative of the professional growth I received while here.

I have also had 3 interviews with U.S. PIRG, which stands for Public Interest Research Group. They work with local, state, and national officials to get the public's voice into the conversation. Their main objective is to get corporations out of our political system. This is a topic I am extremely passionate about and the position I applied for is called a Campus Organizer. I would be working on a college campus organizing volunteers for campaigns (i.e. climate change policies, anti-biotics in animal feed, water conservation, etc.). We would get petitions and endorsements signed as well as educate people on what is going on. Get them interested in the political scene and help them see that change is possible. This is my ideal job and I am so happy I discovered it! I was offered the job, but it is at the University of California Irvine, which is between LA and San Diego. Also, I would have to be in Boston on Saturday (yes... in 5 days) to start training. Since this is a non-profit the starting pay is not very high, and California is very expensive so my parents are nervous about me having enough money to survive. But I don't like the materialistic lifestyle and don't need anything more than a roof over my head and food in my belly. It is rare that you find a job that you're passionate about therefore I do not want to pass it up. I am calling the woman today and if a few questions are answered how I need them to be I will accept the job. That means I will be in Boston by the end of the week and California by the end of the month!  It's very exciting!

When I got the call that they were offering me the job I started dancing around in the hallway outside Mary's parent's condo. I was doing leaps while listening to what she had to say. I really appreciate the offer call because she told me why they chose me, what skills I possessed that would be enhanced, what support I would receive in areas that I had not experienced, and what kind of professional/personal growth I would gain. The job in Raleigh was just like, "Yeah we would like to offer you the position. Do you accept?" There wasn't any kind of personalization to it.  It is just a job... Whereas US PIRG is the start to a very fulfilling career and significant change. It is only a 1 year commitment through August of next year so if I'm really feeling homesick I can ask to transfer to the East Coast where I could see my family more. Or my dad could look for jobs out West once his contract is up in May. With Christmas in the middle I don't think I'll go long without seeing my family..plus there are cell phones and Skype so I can "see" and hear them whenever.

It is extremely hard to move away from your family and friends but I think this will be a good experience for me.. If I don't do it I think I'll regret it. And I do not want to live thinking, "what would have happened if I took that job... where would I be?" I know that I'll enjoy this job and that it's what I want to do because it's what I did in college on a larger scale and can have a national impact instead of just a Stetson or Volusia County impact. Anyways, we'll see for sure in a few hours when I call back Laura! I'll keep you posted on everything...but you can bet that this will be my choice. It just seems like fate is lining it all up... plus it goes with my sense of adventure!

Until next time,
Alyssa

Another day

This week flew by at work. I've had a lot on my mind recently, and my boss was back in the office so I had lots to do. Even though this week had ups and downs I'm ending it on a good note. Payday today, I went to Lime- a burrito joint- for lunch. It's a good Friday. Just taking it one day at a time over here. I really miss my family and want to be closer to them so I can go home on the weekends and see my little brother grow up.. he turned 12 last week and that was kind of a reality check for me that he may not be my little snuggle bug in the next year or 2. These past weekends were so nice to be around everyone. But, I just have to live and learn, roll with the punches, and find the good wherever I am.

Later tonight I'm probably going to Orlando to join Ashley and her coworkers for a night on the town. I've never been "out" in Orlando so it should be fun. We have transportation provided so that is nice not to have to worry about parking or someone driving. Then a coworker just invited me to brunch on Sunday so that made me really happy! I love Sunday brunch, and am looking forward to getting to know everyone better. 

Things are going well over here on the East coast. Still searching for something... but I think I'll find it soon. 

Have a wonderful weekend! 

Finding peace and love,

Alyssa

History & Wedding bliss!

This past weekend I attended the wedding of a dear friend whom I consider a brother.

It was in Charlottesville, Virginia which is a quaint, lovely city. Thomas Jefferson's estate, Monticello, is nearby and it is where the University of Virginia is located. The town is nestled in the mountains so the terrain is quite breathtaking. While I respect American history, it has never really been my favorite subject. The grass is greener on the other side so they say, plus everything in Europe is much, much older so I think that is why I have a desire to learn and live European history. My ancestors did come over from France and England so maybe it is an innate desire to connect with the past? I say this because I actually found Monticello to be a really great place to visit and it gave me new found respect for Thomas Jefferson. After visiting this place and seeing what a learned man Jefferson was, and hearing that he died with $100,000 of debt I realized that he wasn't just this white, male plantation owner who was born into wealth and who's family stayed wealthy. I recommend visiting the estate and learning about all of his accomplishes and the 3 things he wanted to be known for in his life. I will aspire to be like Jefferson and use my life to advocate for independence, true religious freedom and good, free education.

Back to the wedding, just wanted to get the history in there first because I don't want to take the focus off of the reason for the weekend.

On Friday we attended the wedding reception. It was in this cute restaurant called, "The Local". It was upstairs and there were lots of windows that were opened letting in a fresh breeze. There was an open bar and delicious cheese tray. The groom lived with my family 10 years ago as an exchange student. He is an only child, and his parents allowed him to follow his dreams and come over to the States for the year. They didn't know us and didn't meet us until after he arrived via Skype. It had been a long time coming for us to meet his beautiful parents. When we walked in his mom and dad were talking so their backs weren't facing the door. He tapped his mom's shoulder and when she turned around she instantly recognized us! She started to cry, as did my mom and I. We embraced in a big hug ... it was a magical moment.

The rest of the evening was filled with delicious food, beautiful toasts, and love. I am just so honored that I was invited to attend the rehearsal and blessed that I got to go.

Saturday morning is when we went to Monticello as I've already written about.

Then the wedding was at 4:30 p.m. on a beautiful green space on a 250 year old estate. There were blooming magnolia trees around and the mountains made a great backdrop for the beautiful couple and wedding party. Pretty white chairs were lined up with purple flowers tied to the end of each row. There were less than 50 people in attendance making the setting very intimate. The bride's dress was made by her mother and was simply stunning. But of course, it was so stunning because of the absolutely stunning young woman in it! At first I couldn't take my eyes off of the bride walking towards us.. but then I couldn't take my eyes off of the groom as he grinned watching her make the walk towards him. There were 2 readings, one was Union and the other was about a captain...both of which were beautiful and set the tone for the ceremony. The preacher performed a beautiful ceremony with relevant anecdotes and sweet blessings. My favorite part of the entire evening was listening to their vows... It perfectly summed up who they are and why they are perfect for each other. I have been to a couple of weddings, and this one just had a beautiful spirit.  It was everything a wedding should be... two families joining together through the love of two people. It wasn't a show, it wasn't unnecessarily extravagant, and it wasn't witnessed by everyone that they and their parents know. It was the people that have impacted them and that had a stake in who they are individually and as a couple.

I have not experienced the type of love they possess for each other, but if I one day decide to marry I hope that it is to someone that compliments me, understands me, and makes me as happy as those two make each other. I want to have a rehearsal and wedding just like theirs in the sense of the spirit and rhythm of the weekend.

I am just  in awe of this trip and the beauty I witnessed this weekend. While I do not believe in fairy tales or a soul mate, I do believe in destiny. And this couple was destined to be together. They challenge each other to follow their dreams, support each other along the way, and bring out the best in each other. I hope that every man and woman looking for a partner seeks one that does all of these things. That is where true contentment and happiness lye. Do not just look to be in a relationship... Look to fall in love. And let it be with the person of your choosing regardless of socioeconomic glass, gender, religion, or anything else that may inhibit you from finding your bliss.

Love,
Alyssa

Exciting news!

I was blessed to wake up to a beautiful sunny day today and a job to go to! I know so many people have to search for jobs for several months before finding one and I just had this opportunity kind of stumble upon me. 

I love B&B because of the people and the various career tracks you could take. I always tell myself, "Alyssa, if you don't like something then change it". In general I'm getting into the groove of things and enjoying myself more and more. If you're just entering the workplace give yourself a month to get adjusted. A point will come where you start enjoying it --hopefully. But, I was always so busy in college and working on various projects and I miss that. So! I went to our CRO and asked if I could do some work on the internship program! I am going to conduct exit interviews with the interns so that I can find ways to improve the program and hopefully increase our intern to hire ratio. I am SO EXCITED!!! Last fall I was thinking I wanted to work in higher ed but then decided it was too political and I didn't want to get a masters right away. So this opportunity could grow into something more within the company and I could fulfill my goal of working with college students and a company! Plus, I feel like this will help the company get more bang for it's buck and potentially get more interested candidates from the get-go. The past few years they hired 1 out of 4 or 5 interns. This year they hired 2 out of 6 so I think I can bring that up for next year. 

My strengths from StrenghtsFinder 2.0 are Strategic, Maximizer, Adaptability, Input and Achiever. So I think this opportunity allows me to utilize all of my strengths and build them up. 

Ahhhh! I'm just so ready and grateful that they are letting me pursue this. 

Anyways, just wanted to share. My boss is out on vacation so I am awaiting a task that my coworker is setting up for me.

Have a wonderful day! Thanks for reading! 

Much love,

Alyssa

P.S! I am up to 280 views from 72 yesterday, which completely floors me! Thanks for your overwhelming support. If you have a blog I'd love to read it! I love seeing what is going in people's lives and Facebook doesn't do the best job of allowing us to connect on a deeper level.

I promise I'm happy!

Within posting about this blog on Facebook my views went from 72 total to 160 in an hour or so. 

I'm so glad to see so many people want to read about what's going on! But I realize that I seem depressed or something by some of my past posts. So I'm so sorry if I seem like a Debbie Downer! That's never been my style. Writing helps you reveal your inner most feelings and that is what I've been doing through this blog. Once your in college you have this ideal image of a career and it seems glamorous to be on your own, and it is! But it has been a bit of a reality check since I'm spoiled and didn't have this much financial stuff on my plate in college. 

My aunt just called me to check in because she got the impression I wasn't happy after checking out some posts. This week has been incredible and I couldn't be happier right now! The transition period is over and I will stop being whiny and dramatic... for now anyways! 

I also have another blog where I just post thoughts on various things, and life advice. I would like to be Oprah meets Ellen one day. Louisiana needs to be represented in a little bit better light on TV ... I'm tired of being asked if I eat squirrel brains and wrestle alligators.  If you'd like to check it out you can find it here:  http://alyssaslifeideology.blogspot.com/

I am staying with a friend tomorrow night because she is bringing me to the airport Friday morning! I have a wedding to attend this weekend with my family and I am super stoked! I haven't seen the groom in 4 years so I am so glad to be reunited and to be apart of this joyous occasion. 

I hope everyone is having a wonderful week! Talk to you soon.

Much love,

Alyssa

Bills, Bills, Bills the real life version of Destiny's Child

I just paid my car insurance and started looking at my payments calendar ..which lead to me humming "Bills, Bills, Bills" by Destiny's Child. So I decided to write my own version of their song. Enjoy:

Real Life Bills: 
At first it seemed real cool
Being on my own is something that's never been
But now it's getting uncomfortable
Not seeing people around no more
I'm slowly having to pay for everything
I'm working for my money to start handing
it to other things, like paying my for my car
Drive it all week only to keep filling up the tank
Now I have another bill to the city
Lucky me I get a check this week

You trifilin', not good for much type of cubicle job
Silly me, why haven't I followed my passion? 
Times went from fun to rough
I wish my mama could help me out
Instead I'm learning what it's like to be an adult
I didn't know what growing up was all about

Can I pay my own bills? 
Would you like to pay my bills? 
Find me a rewarding job 
so I don't mind working to pay my bills? 
If you helped me I could build a career
If you can't, don't worry we won't be through

You wanna start paying bills? 
Being on your own to pay more than the telephone bills? 
Just enjoy college and youth while you can

Destiny's Child Version: 

At first we started out real cool

Taking me places I ain't never been

But now, you're getting comfortable

Ain't doing those things you did no more

You're slowly making me pay for things

Your money should be handling

And now you ask to use my car (car)

Drive it all day and don't fill up the tank

And you have the audacity

To even come and step to me

Ask to hold some money from me

Until you get your check next week

[Kelly:]

You triflin', good for nothing type of brother

Silly me, why haven't I found another?

A baller, when times get hard

I need someone to help me out

Instead of a scrub like you

Who don't know what a man's about

[Chrous:]

Can you pay my bills?

Can you pay my telephone bills? 

Do you pay my automo' bills?

If you did then maybe we could chill

I don't think you do

So, you and me are through

Can you pay my bills?

Can you pay my telephone bills?

Do you pay my automo' bills?

If you did then maybe we could chill

I don't think you do

So, you and me are through

The end!
Even though it is a tough adjustment, I cannot help but be grateful. Seeing all of your bills is overwhelming but it teaches you responsibility and gives you appreciation for everything you have. I have all of my needs met to the fullest and have friends nearby or just a phone call away (since I pay my bills!).

Have a fantastic day!

Much love,
Alyssa

A wonderful weekend

Part of the reason I write this blog is for me. Because I love to write and share with people. Reflecting on the day and remembering my dreams are very important to me. But the main reason I write this blog is because people who are college seniors or recent graduates often do not know what the 8-5, working life feels like. I've had a job since I was 16 years old (I actually did projects for a newspaper during the summer starting at 13 years old) so I know what it is like to work.. all the joys and frustrations that come with it. But being totally on your own and paying your bills is a totally different story. It is important to accurately show students what the daily grind is actually like... and to help them feel they are not alone. Sadly life skills - like signing a lease, picking your benefits, etc.- aren't properly taught in school. I was fortunate enough to have parents help me work through all of that the past 2 months but some people are totally on their own.

I say all of this to lead up to the wonderful weekend I have just had! I went to visit a friend (Mary) and mentor in the beautiful, sunny town of St. Pete. As I posted before, I just felt lonely the past few weeks even though I have some friends close. There are just some people you connect with on a different level who help you understand and achieve your most far-fetched dreams. Mary is one of those people. We talked about our dream jobs and all of our ideas to better the world. We talked about life and where we are. It all came full circle. She has been feeling the same as me for a year since she graduated. It is a tough transition out of your college bubble. Each day your schedule varies, you can walk over to your friends dorm everyday, you have org meetings that allow you follow your passions and make a difference or grow personally.. You usually have a roommate (either in the good way, or the "I'm living in a soap opera" way). so you're never fully alone... and if you are alone you can always find someone to do something. It is literally like each day is an adventure no matter how much stuff you have to do or how stressed you are.

Then you move off on your own ... some of you may have roommates still but I am in a one room apartment that is just for me. Mary lives with her fiance (they've been together since freshman year of college and are getting married in almost a month!) but it is still difficult because she doesn't have her set of close friends. It's just strange when you want to go off and do something.....but have to think about who to go with or what to do because it's a new setting. But just knowing that she has and was experiencing the same things I have been dealing with for the past 3 weeks was so comforting. I hate to think of her feeling out of place and having to adjust, but that is just part of life. She wants to work for a non-profit and realized that by living this she will be able to relate to 90% of people because most people are in our positions... where you just have a job. You aren't doing what you are truly passionate about and it gets discouraging to actually follow your heart when you get turned down for jobs, or when there aren't even any openings... when your dream doesn't pay much money and you have all of these bills to pay and loans to pay back. It's such a frustrating place to be! But luckily we can find comfort, persevere and keep dreaming because we have each other. Because there is strength in unity. Because our dreams matter and they are achievable.

It was just a fantastic weekend.. There were lots of laughs, a few tears and genuine talks. I hope that you can find someone that you can talk to about anything--no matter how ridiculous it may be--and they will still support you and help you to the best of their ability to make it a reality. Never feel stuck... every experience we have allows us to gain new perspectives and shape ourselves into the person we want to be. Don't think about how grass is greener on the other side, because often times it is just as prickly and rough as over here. Keep striving toward your goals, no matter how impossible they seem and do little things that help reignite your passion for them.

I am going to start doing more volunteer work in the community so that I don't forget my desire to help people and solve their needs.

I wish you a wonderful week and thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading.

All the best,
Alyssa

LUNCH BREAK!

Hump DAYYYYY!

Happy hump day and lunch break everyone.

Most people think 5:00 is the best time of day when you're finished with work and able to go home (and I would agree)... but I particularly like lunch. It gives me something to look forward to, allows me to decompress then push through the rest of the day. Plus at this point I know what the day has in store for me, so I can crank through the last 4 hours quickly.

I am really busy today and it's great! I love having stuff to do.. makes 5:00 get here that much sooner.

Friday after work I am going a little road trip to visit a friend for the weekend... so I cannot wait for these next 2 days to be over! If I don't have anything to do I am bored, the day goes by slower, and I anticipate what fun things are coming up... then that's all I can think about! Is it Friday yet?!
But luckily that is not happening today. I think I am getting the hang of things so the boss lady is trusting me with  more work.

I sent an RFP all by myself today! It was an amazing feeling. After 2 1/2 weeks I feel useful and not like I'm just doing petty/busy work. I am glad that I can help companies get better rates for their insurance and ensure they are getting the best coverage. I like helping people.. that's what I want to do with my life- help people in some capacity. Until I was about 17 years old I could tell you what I wanted to be when I grew up... now I just don't even know. There are many, many things I want to do but there is no set job title I want. It's interesting how your career goals change over your lifetime (or don't change. Some people know exactly what they want to do and do it! I think that's really cool). I'm an ever changing person so who knows where I'll end up. But I'm excited for the journey! No point focusing on the end destination because we have only just begun the adventure.

I hope you're having a lovely day! If you work for an employer (or are your own employer) where you set your own type of hours and just have to get your work done each day then I am envious of you. I do not like this 8 - 5 thing. I'm ready to only be in the office a few hours of the day because I am out at meetings and interacting with people. But it'll come! You have to work towards your dream job and create it along the way.

Enjoy the rest of your day. Talk to you soon

Daydreaming of the possibilities,
Alyssa

Lonely..

Today I realize how nice it was to live in the apartments at school. I was absolutely tired of my messy apartment and was convinced that living in my own place would be paradise... There are definitely perks! I love how clean it is, I can select the decor, there's real furniture instead of that play stuff colleges give you, I have amenities! I have a lovely little pond with a fountain right outside of my apartment. Went for a jog today and it was nice to listen to the falling water and have the scenery. While also feeling secure since I am in a small community with little traffic.

But as I sit here in the later hours of the day I am just craving human interaction. I sit in my cubicle every day from 8 - 5 with very little to stimulate my brain and no conversation. Then, I get home to an empty apartment with no one around to invite over. I thought my friends who are close would always be over, but after this first week totally on my own I am mistaken... because we all have things going on in our lives and it is a little bit of a drive.

My argument to my mom about staying in this area was that I wanted my own place and to be around my friends... but it seems her argument was more valid. I may have a job I really really enjoy and could interact with my family if I would have gone to NC.

I know it may seem dramatic since it has only been 2 weeks... but I have this innate desire to create and do something worthwhile. I want to learn and grow... yet I'm already stagnant. I hope that things progress and that this stagnation ends...

I don't know how to go out and make new friends without being put into the same organization, class, or group project...but I'm going to try. Definitely not replacing my old friends, just finding more so that I won't ever have this horrible feeling of being alone.

Even though I have 2 beautiful people in my life that I talk on the phone to everyday and share a deep connection with ... I need in person interaction. I think knowing that they are out there and I cannot drive over to their house to chat in person makes it a bit harder.

But I'll continue to be productive and work through it! It's part of growing up, and that is what this chapter of my life is all about. I am reading a couple of books, have a list of movies to watch, blogs to read, I am going to buy a cookbook (because my random cooking is fun, but I want some direction).

Tomorrow is the weekend! (TGIF has a totally new meaning to me now). And lucky for me, I have plans all weekend! Dinner at my best friends family's house tomorrow, Springs Saturday, and a cookout on Sunday. So here's to always looking on the bright side.

Thank you for reading and bearing with me! This helps me to feel that there is more out there.. and that maybe, just maybe, there is someone else out there looking for a little friendship and understanding in this journey of life.

Have a fantastic weekend!

Dreaming about the future,
Alyssa

Senior year bucket list?

Sooo I just looked back on my post about "Last Day of Undergrad".

It says "tomorrow I am going to post my senior year bucket list and keep you updated on my progress". Wellll that didn't happen. But don't feel left out because I didn't make one at all.

Boy, my follow through could really improve. I have a lot to learn.

Until next time,
Alyssa

Working 8 - 5- what a way to make a living.

Wooooo. This is my 8th day on the job. So far so-so, but definitely not what I expected. Which you would think I knew what I was going to be doing since I interned here for 4 weeks. But stuffing envelopes made what I'm now doing look exciting.

We get this idea in our head that we are going to go out and be successful immediately because we have spent all this time studying, preparing for the workplace... well that is not the case. Just like everything in life, you must work your way up. What an optimist I was to think I was going to start this job that I just loved. I thought I would see this set career path and work towards it. Work ethic is something I value and I do work hard, but I thought it would feel more fulfilling... Sitting at a computer typing stuff into spreadsheets and looking at which insurance plans doctors accept may sound fulfilling to you.... but it certainly isn't to me.

I'm getting scared that I will get used to the paycheck, and may get complacent with this type of job. This is not something I want to get comfortable doing because I was meant to accomplish much bigger things. Not that what I'm doing is insignificant.... it's just not for me. I want something fun and exciting-- I want to interact with people. Not sit in a cubicle for 8-9 hours wishing it was 5 p.m. on a Friday. Never in my life would I have believed you if you told me I would be counting the hours until I was off of work.
But, I guess that's what happens when you take the easy way out. I settled because I knew I would be comfortable and wouldn't have to go through interviews. Plus it would give me time to figure out what I really want to do. That's the problem with jumping into college and with college curriculum, it doesn't help you figure out where you want to work or what you want to be doing. It just shows you some of the things you could do and puts credentials behind your name to help you get that mundane, not fulfilling job.

It may not sound like it...but I love the company I work for. It is just so not my personality... I want to solve problems, interact with people, help people. This is just looking at plans and inputting information into a computer right now. But the reason I love this company is because they empower you and allow you to determine the best career path for you. There are lots of opportunity for growth and change.

I don't know... I just want to do something that is making a difference in society. You know what I mean?
I believe in myself and know that I could make my dreams come true... I just don't know where to start.

I really want to have a talk show with my friend Nicole. We could revolutionize TV. It would be epic. You think I write good blogs (or maybe you don't?), wait til you see what I'll be like as a talk show host (hopefully better by voice than words if you don't like these posts). There are so many things we should be focusing on as a society but they come third, forth, or honorable mention to all of these things that don't matter. 24 hour news was a ridiculous idea.. it takes away the importance of things that need emphasis.

See my mind is all over the place because it's being suppressed. I don't even know what to do with myself. I want to cook, clean, write, read, watch TV, craft, relax and listen to music. Just too many things that won't fit in between 5:30 and 11 p.m.

For those of you that have worked 8-5 for 40 years in jobs that you don't truly enjoy, I don't know how you do it. I'm not moving on (just yet), but I know I cannot do this for more than 2 years. I have to be able to work various hours and be with people. That's the main thing... I miss people. I'm starting to get lonely. Last year, I interacted with people each and every day, almost all day! Now I say a few things at work about work, and come home to any empty apartment.

Which is probably why I am writing to you...cyber world.

I have to find something productive to do... so until next time.

An unsatisfied/adjusting college student,
Restless Lyss

Almost summer...

As I sit and enjoy this long weekend, I cannot help but think summer is a few short weeks away. Summer--a time of no worries, sun, friends, and fun. Something I've always enjoyed. For the first time in my life I won't have a summer.. Last summer was literally the last summer (even though I worked 8-5 for 8 weeks of it). This summer symbolizes not only a change in the season, but a change in chapters. My life is taking on a new chapter--Adulthood. While I've felt independent and mentally like an adult for several years I will truly learn what is like on my own. I will learn what its like to manage a budget and pay those dreaded bills. To slowly see each penny I've worked so hard for go to the basic necessities of life.

Like the summer this transition will be fun and exciting, but also hot, boring and miserable. I am scared to see what the balance will be. I'm scared to be away from the people who I hold so close. I'm scared for distance and time to start making their mark. While college is stressful and keeps me busy, I know that this is a rare time in your life where you are mostly carefree and able to do what you want. If you just prioritize your time you can always make it to where your schedule fits those of your friends. There is always someone to lean on, cry on, and go on an adventure with. I don't want to lose those people.. I don't want those relationships to start drifting....... slowly sinking off into the vast Atlantic to be washed back on and off for the rest of our lives.

I suppose I should look at the positives. I no longer have to worry and pick up after my messy roommates. I don't have to be busy 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. with class, meetings, and homework. I get to use the knowledge I've worked so hard to gain, while continuing to learn. There's new people to meet and promotions to gain. An apartment to decorate and make into my home. Since my parents moved a few months ago I've felt kind of homeless, so it will be nice to make my very first home and start my own life.

I won't be totally alone. I have a couple of friends staying in this area, and a family I'm close to within 5 minutes of my new place. I will be in a small city so I have that homey feeling while having stuff to do (and great places to eat at!)

I hope that the transitions I've already experienced in life can help me stay strong and enjoy this new chapter. I hope I remember that you don't have to talk everyday or know everything about someone's life  to stay best friends... I've known that since 8th grade but it's different for different people.

If I had one piece of advice to give future, for real adult me it would be to stay adventurous. Don't make it to where going to Krispy Kreme at midnight,  randomly go to the Daytona 500, or jumping out of plane is just a college thing. Experiences are for life. Don't let the 8-5 life make you boring and tired. Always remember what you love and if you lose passion in something...find something to replace it.

Good luck to everyone out there having a similar transition. See it as a fun thing! You're friends will always be there (especially in this connected society!), there are similar people to you anywhere you go, and change is good. Don't be afraid. Transitions help you discover pieces of yourself you were unaware of.

As Eleanor Roosevelt said, "We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face....we must do that which we think we cannot!"

Much love,

Alyssa

Last first day of undergrad.

Well my last first day has come and gone... so have my second and third. If this is any indication as to how fast the next 4 months will go by, then I better not sleep or blink or else I'll miss it. I've been trying to figure out how I feel about everything. It's really difficulty because one end of the spectrum I don't want to leave, ever. Then on the other I cannot wait to be done, give me the diploma and send me along my merry way.

I keep telling myself that these are the last 120 days I'll ever be in this position and that seems to help combat the desire to be done.But then that reminds that this is real, and I won't be here forever. I have loved my time at Stetson. I've made incredible friends. Grown personally and professionally. Reached an understanding and love for people that I never expected. And hopefully inspired or helped a few people along the way. I just want to influence someone's life for the better like so many people here have done for me.The lessons I've learned, friendships fostered, and memories made will always be treasured. But to say this is the best time in my life and these memories will be my top is unfair. Stetson has prepared for me a career and taught me not to sell myself short and to find meaning in everything I do. Therefore, I am confident that my experiences here will be mirrored in whatever I do afterwards. It bothers me when people older than me say the best days are "almost behind me". If they are that unhappy in their lives that this dramatic and tumultuous undergraduate experience is the best then maybe they are the ones with the problem. If people didn't make the whole "you only live once" ideology into an excuse to justify doing dumb things and saw it as a reason to live a life full of happiness and doing all the things you love then more people would see that each day is a gift, and should not be taken for granted. We all have to do things we really don't want to do (I didn't want to have to read and analyze a case for my 2nd day of class), but we have to see the beauty and benefit in everything we do (I learned practical skills that can be applied in the real world, plus it was really interesting!).

I'm straying from my original meaning for writing this post, but hey that is the beauty of writing. It frees the soul. And after my meetings and stuff today, I need some freedom. The main reason I just want to enjoy this semester, stay motivated, and have a good attitude is because I was so bombarded with obligations last semester. My classes were not my priority, SGA was which made me deal with a lot of things that did not enhance my quality of life. I really do enjoy my classes and know that the ones this semester will translate into my career field so they are my priority. Next is spending time with the people that I am so blessed to see on a daily basis. The hardest part of graduation will be not being able to call my friends to hang out at any point. I cannot imagine having these people around to watch movies with, force to go get a frosty with me, come over to just discuss life, and to simply listen to me when my mind is wandering. I hope that wherever I end up in May I find the same quality of people that I have found here. I'm used this incredibly high standard, so that will be hard, but I have faith it will work out. As long as I look at the company culture and how well the job fits with  me over the salary amount I think I will find some amazing people. I mean Stetson's price tag didn't hinder me from coming here, even though it has strained me and family financially, and look how its turned out! Hopefully Stetson's an investment and will keep the brand as it is. They are trying to grow and that just scares me... 2300 to 3000 students doesn't seem like a big jump, but when you are in the daily grind of things you can see even what a change 200 students can make. The smaller the population the more dramatic the change is. I am glad I was during this time, because the culture is changing. There are some incredible people that have come in over the last 2 years, but its just been different from my freshman and sophomore year. I love change, but it has to be Positive change. If its negative, then why change things?

Anyways, I'm ranting and could go on and on about this... so I'm going to call it a night.

Tomorrow I"m going to post my senior year bucket list and keep you posted on my progress!

Have a lovely day,
Alyssa