Let the job search begin!

This probably sounds like a familiar refrain to many people. With unemployment rates at such a high level right now, many of us are looking for jobs! I keep hearing that the job market is so tight right now, people aren't hiring, there isn't any work out there, etc. etc.

While this may be true, I prefer not to pay attention to the negative and feed the increasing fear in our communities. The more and more attention we give it, the larger and larger it grows. The more gloom and doom stories we watch on TV or listen to on the radio, the more fearful we become, and the worse the situation gets.

I know that looking for a job is not easy. Indeed it can be a very stressful event. I do believe however, that the more positive your outlook, and the more confidence you have in the search, the easier time you'll have in gravitating toward that job that was meant for you. I really believe in the mantra that 'whatever you put your attention on, expands and grows.' I cannot then, put my attention on the dark gloomy stories everyone is telling these days. I know there are jobs out there- just look at the ads online, there's ton of them!

Now the tricky part is going to be to find where that job is, and exactly what type of job it is that I want. I'll be finished with my historic preservation degree a semester early, that means I'll be done in mid-December. That's a short two months away. Now is the time for me to start making some contacts and getting my resume out there. Since I'm already in Colorado, and I'm quite fond of the mountains, climate, proximity to home, and central location, it seems like a good idea to be looking in the general area. I'm not opposed to moving elsewhere, but its a place to start anyway.

In my studies over the last year, I've learned that there are sooo many aspects to preservation. There are countless ways to be involved, from a surveyor to a mason, to a carpenter, to an administrator, to a architect, archaeologist, professor, politician, community planner, cultural resource specialist, historian, etc. etc. It's quite exciting to have so much diversity and all be working together toward the same goal.

Exactly where I fit in is still to be determined. I've had plenty of experience in the administrative non-profit world. I know I would do well with advocacy and planning. I also got my undergraduate degree in Anthropology and have thoroughly enjoyed my experiences with cultural resources and archaeology. Additionally I am completely in love with the hands-on trades of preservation. The construction and rehabilitation work I did this summer was fantastic. I could definitely see myself excelling in the trades arena.

I would be happy with many variations of the above. Perhaps a job that has a little of all- perfect! Now it's just a matter of getting down to business, researching what is out there and making it all happen. Oh, and if anyone happens to come across any fabulous preservation opportunities, please send my way!