ANXIETIES OF A NEW JOB

Well, the first week of the new job is now history. Can’t believe how nervous I was the Sunday before that big first day. Commented to Arlene about that fact so they had a special prayer for me at the conclusion of our monthly Sunday night prayer meeting. Joked after the “Amen” that I was no longer scared; however, it must have worked because the week went quite well.

The position is an intermediate clerk. The job is in the health and wellness center of a community college in Orange County. It literally is a medical office inside a college campus. Never new there was such a thing. The hours are part-time at 30 hours a week (right now only work Monday through Thursday) with 75% medical coverage, and the insurance is darn good. Although didn’t realize that I will only be working 10 months out of the year, there is a positive angle--can work in another area of interest during this hiatus.

The job is hectic with lots of variety---right down my alley. There’s a lot to learn and seemed to catch on quickly, especially the computer programs which to me were considered just more in a long line of software I’ve had to use over the years. Left work every day with nothing more than a great attitude and the desire to return (haven’t experienced those feelings for a while), except the first day--left with a massive headache. Try to avoid taking any type of pain reliever but knew this sucker would not go away without popping a generic Advil.

Another interesting event happened at work that somewhat surprised me. On Wednesday a student came in to inquire about getting a TB test. Tests are only given on Mondays and Tuesdays. I understood his inquiries, and he understood my answers. He seemed appreciative and three coworkers were standing on the sidelines somewhat flabbergasted. Must say I was taken aback myself. The reason--this student was deaf, and we were signing back and forth to each other. I fumbled a little but felt proud of being able to communicate with this young man, since I haven’t used sign language much over the last 20 years.

Knew working at a college would be a good deal. When the school is closed, our office is closed. So after December 13 with only two weeks under my belt, I’ll be off for three weeks, and, yes, I do get paid. And there is a flex week in February, and spring break, and….

The people are nice and everyone seems glad that I am there and no wonder--my position had been vacant for 1-½ years. Now there is just one problem--the Human Resource Department called to schedule me for an interview. The same position but in a different department. Since I really like what I’m doing there would be no difficulty in making a decision; however, this position is full-time and that means more money. What’s a person to do?