Once Again, What’s Next?
It’s time to continue to ask “what’s next” and explore it during the moments when I am avoiding finishing my dissertation. I had four years in my PhD to slow down, learn, think deeply, and figure out what is really next. I can’t say I have an exact answer, but I know what I value and enjoy and have gotten feedback about what is useful.
My first “what’s next” was graduating college during the financial crisis with a degree in Psychology and zero submitted applications to the required Masters or PhD program that usually follows. My friends helped me solve the stress with their grand idea to join the Coast Guard. It was a great idea and, despite the challenges, I am forever grateful for their fun and adventurous scheme.
The next, of course, was after the Coast Guard. I had a job pending when I stepped out of active duty, and still had reserve weekends to keep me connected. I had my sister’s home where I could comfortably stay and contribute to helping with my nephew. Even with all of that going for me, I did not let myself relax or process. I applied to multiple contracting roles, and eventually landed one with the connection of a friend of a friend. I was on my own, but others who had done this before helped out. One kind referral and I had a gig in analysis at Homeland Security.