At age 21 with only a few bills (car insurance and cell phone), no rent, no responsibilities...why not? Why not take the time to figure out what I REALLY wanted to do, rather than thrust myself into a career I would hate?
For three months, I did temp. work and took the time to figure it all out. I looked back at my college years and I realized that I had suprisingly fallen in love with my job as a tour guide --- which was originally just a resume builder. (Go figure.) I applied for so many jobs I lost count. I landed an interview in the NY area, didn't get it. I was offered a job in Laurel, MD. My mom opposed to the move, so I took a job at the local Enterprise. (Worst decision ever!) After three months of customers telling me I was too smart for the job and grinding down my favorite pair of BCBG shoes, I had enough. Just as I was about to send out applications for jobs and grad school, I got the call... from an admissions job I applied to in June. A few interviews later, I was hired.
A career as a college administrator is definitely not a job that rakes in the big bucks, but I know that as I progress in my career the money will come. I have tons of apartment horror stories and Ramen Noodle tales to prove that it isn't easy. But despite it all, I've fallen in love with my career. Each day is different. Each day is a challenge. And each day I learn more about myself.
Do what you love, love what you do.