Growing up, again

On Wednesday I had orientation for internship- learned about health insurance, benefits, paychecks, and my email account. On Monday I begin internship- a couple weeks of trainings, site visits, meetings, and preparation for a full year of helping children in the schools. In just over two days, the adventure I have been preparing for will begin.

Internship has been set up to feel like a real job, and except for the level of supervision it is one. I attended an orientation with other district employees and am receiving the same benefits. The pay, while not what I would make with my degree, is livable. My hours are the same as everyone else in my department. What does this mean? I have grown up...again.

Ten years ago (plus a week) I began my first full time job, stepping into the cafeteria of an elementary school to meet my coworkers and learn about life as a teacher. I had worked previously, but that day was when I remember settling into adulthood and the responsibility of my career. It was very overwhelming, but fulfilling. I spent six years as a teacher before deciding I needed to move on. Enrolling in graduate school was a step forward and a step backward. It was a step forward toward my career goals, but in becoming a student and doing part-time work I also moved backward. The pay and benefits changed, as did the strict hours, dress code, and way of life. For four years, life has been on a detour. Though I was getting older, I was spending time with younger peers and living a lifestyle that didn't match the one I had left.

So as I look forward to Monday and internship, in a way I feel like I am back on the path I was on before. In another way though, it's like I'm back in 2001, and I'm the new college graduate ready to show up to her brand new job in her new clothes. It's an odd feeling to have at nearly 33 years old. To have not worked professionally in four years is definitely an adjustment, but it's one that I'm definitely ready for. It's where I have been trained to be, and where I need to be.

Lisa's career, take 2...