May 30, 2010
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To Follow My Head, or My Heart?
I’ve been thinking a lot about this coming week for the past few days. It’s going to be a big one because this will be the week I hear back from two jobs I applied for. Long story short, I feel like I have a very strong chance of getting offers from both places. Here’s where my dilemma appears. If luck would have it and I get both offers, which one should I pick?
Before I get into more details about each place, let me give you some background. Coming out of undergraduate, I was planning on working for Organization #1. I applied four times for this organization and I proceeded to get rejected four times. I probably should have given up, but I really wanted to work there because the work was very much in line with my interests. I came close each time, getting down to the final two candidates, but unfortunately I lost out each time to an older, more experienced person.
Anyway, after a while I went to plan B and decided to get my masters in order to have better job opportunities in my field. So far, I’ve really enjoyed what I’ve been studying. It may not be what I thought I was going to do before, but it’s a good reasonable alternative. If everything goes as planned, I will be finished with my masters after one more year.
Having said all that, here’s where I am now. Getting the opportunity to work at either organization would be a huge step up from my current situation, no question. I don’t think either organization is a bad choice as they both would make me happy, but each one will take me down a completely different path. Let me to share with you some facts about each place and maybe you can help me finally make a choice.
(I’m not going to go into too much specifics as to what type of job I’ll be doing in each organization. However, if you really want to know it’s actually not too hard to figure out.)
Organization #1:
*Been chasing after this organization for the past couple of years. After all this time, I finally have this rare opportunity to get my foot in.
*Technically part time (around 30 hours) for now, but will eventually become full time.
*Will be easier to juggle work and school due to a flexible work schedule.
*Will require me to work a secondary job, which will pay separately from my salary.
*Overall, the pay will be significantly less than Organization #2.
*Mostly work at home, which eliminates commutes.
*When I do have to travel out of my home office, my gas and food will be paid for by the organization.
*Will be responsible for a lot of important programs and projects. If successful, I could be well known in the community I’m serving, as well as within the organization itself.
*Doesn’t really utilize my masters.
*The “passion” choice.Organization #2:
*The position would be a good stepping stone into future jobs within the field I’m currently studying.
*Will give me a new experience that I lack on my resume.
*Will be working more than full time (45 hours/week).
*Will be harder to juggle work and school because of the long work schedule.
*Overall, pay will be significantly greater than Organization #1.
*Work at the main office, which is in downtown. Commutes, therefore, will be very long.
*I have a classmate that works here, so she can help me out, get lunch with me, carpool with me, etc.
*Entry level job, which mean I will be working hard for others and will not be in charge of projects.
*The “smart” choice.As you can see, both places have their advantages and disadvantages. If I do indeed get both offers I have a tough decision to make. Of course, if I only get one of the offers my decision is already made for me. If I don’t get either offer…well, you’ll soon find out who’s that sobbing guy lying on the street is (hint: me).
Two roads possibly diverge before me. Which way to go?
Comments (143)
passion
I think it depends on how much you need money. If you don’t need a full time job, I understand why you would chase your dream. If you had three kids, I would say pick the job that makes more money. You are not in that situation so you should probably chase your dream.
Which subject are you studying?
That’s a tough decision, and I wish I could help you…but I’m a bad decision maker. It takes me forever to decide on something. Good luck in whatever comes your way! Though, I say, I would choose to do what you love. Having a job you hate or don’t like as much can really pull you down.
I like #1 over #2. Both definitely come with great benefits and put backs, but from what I see #1 looks like something you have been chasing. It also contains a lot of benefits that seem more appealing to me than #2. #2 is good, but #1 is something you have been really working hard for. I say go #1 just because of the benefits, because you have been wanting this for awhile, and because it seems less stressful. Good luck on your decision.
@TheTheologiansCafe - I think I pretty much agree with this choice. Having a family completely changes your perspective. Since you don’t have one of your own right now, this would be a good opportunity to take a risk–especially since there is technically no “bad” choice to make. Go for the dream, man. Go for the dream.
robert frost reference! did you intentionally do that? lol, hopefully im not the only person who noticed…
i say go with the passion choice.
take the road less taken XD
i’m just kidding.but in the end I dont want to put my say in things like this because I dont want to say something and it ends up being the wrong thing in the end ><
It’s obvious that the choice is ultimately yours and you just want to
hear what some of us have to say.
But judging by just reading this, I
can tell Org. 1 means a lot to you.
Salary aside, you’ll be working
hands-on with projects and programs that have importance and meaning to
you.
Something that you know is really hard to find. -And you’ve kept
trying not once, or twice. I think that says a lot.
In my
personal experience, I found that while my current job pays more and
looks better on my resume;
I was much happier getting paid less at
my last job because I believed and had a drive in what I
was doing.
Ultimately experience is experience so no worries
which one you pick, as long as you pick it yourself and commit to it. =)
Good
luck Alex.
And can I say for all of us that we’re really proud of
you?
I’d go for #1.
The best choice is whichever one is in line with your goals in life… what are your goals in life?
Do you want to make more money? Do you want to what want to do?
In rare cases you can have both. In many cases you cannot. What do you want out of life?
I think #1 is better for you. It’s something you’ve been striving for quite some time. I’m not sure what you meant by a secondary job which pays separately from your salary. I hope the hours from the second job will be manageable. While the salary is lower, I think your cost of living will be lower (commute, eating out). I hope they can compensate for a PC / laptop, a good phone / headset, perhaps pay (or partially pay) for things like office equipment). I wonder if you can even deduct some of these expenses from your income. The only drawback working from home is that it may be a bit difficult to get some visibility and to network.
If you’re going to be doing some project mgm’t, you might want to consider take a class on it.
Some other things to consider. Will the skills and experience you learn in org #1 be better than org #2? Are they marketable, transferable? Are the opportunities for growth better in #1 or #2?
oi.
imma say choose the smart one. i understand, not fully but for the most part, the benefits of #1. the advantages are good. seems like they would be paying you to relax…sort of. and the free time to study is a plus. the thing about #2 is….i feel like it would produce greater benefits in the long run. work hard now and kinda relax later, you know? if you choose #2 then lets hope that somehow you can also end up at #1.
???
hope it helps. i believe in you.
i think as long as you have enough money to live…first. if both are substantial in providing, then i’d go with your passion.
#1.
It sounds like it could help you enjoy your work and feel great about it. Sure, it may not make as much as #2, but at least to me money should be less of a priority than satisfaction and happiness (unless money is your measure of happiness).
I wish you the best of luck!
Let’s say 5 years from now… will you be happy with #1 or happier with #2? Times are tough and I suggest going with #2, but where will you be more content? I wish you the best of luck! Oh and I chuckled at the Robert Frost reference.
to be honest, i think you already have the decision in your head (given that you get an offer from both sides), but are trying to qualify it by the affirmation of others
Alex, I know you know in your heart which one you’ll choose.
Also, isn’t this a choice that you have to make? Ignore what other people have to say about anything and just sit and think. The answer will come to you.
Good luck!
@noodley - Man, you said exactly what I wanted to say.
@Peridot21 - Are you saying passion just in of itself, or did you already take into account the stuff I said above?
@TheTheologiansCafe - Money isn’t a big deal right now. I won’t be able to save as much money with choice #1 though.
@Isodomic - industrial/organizational psychology. Basically, psychology in the workforce. It’s related to HR, although not exactly it. That’s why I would say #2 would be a good way to build some foundation.
@crazy2love - I think too much, so it’s hard for me to decide as well. What makes it harder is that I think I would enjoy both jobs. I would believe in what I’ll be doing in each position, but they’re just almost two really different jobs.
@sonychak - I’ll take all that into consideration. Ahhh yet another restless night.
@TheMarriedFreshman - For some reason I didn’t think about that angle. Hmmm, some more stuff to ponder…
Well like you said, you’ll have to wait and see what you get offered. I was talking to a friend the other night who has to decide which area of law she wants to go into in her studies: environmental law or corporate law and it felt like it was idealism vs. pragmatism.
Anyway, you can choose which way to diverge when you get to that crossroads. In the meantime, do more research into the work culture of both places, or talk to more people involved in both organizations.
Although #1 would definitely be the ideal choice, thinking of it logically… #2 is definitely the “smart” choice then.
HR is a field where experience is just about the only thing you can gauge properly seeing as it involves constant interaction with people right?
“Earning your stripes” comes to mind here… and who knows? You might love it.
@Roadlesstaken - well, both… yes, passion itself and yes, i took into account what you said above …i mean if you actually have a passion *and* a chance to do it, omg you should do it! …er in my opinion anyway
@eomona - Yep, I did that intentionally. I definitely feel like I’m looking down two completely different roads, but perhaps both will be about the same. Hmm…
@ordinary_gir1 - I was waiting for someone to say that! It’s okay, say your opinion. I’m really curious about what others would do in this situation.
@eternal_relevance - Thanks =). Out of curiosity, what was your last job?
@icesoul_09 - What makes you say that?
@davidmiya - Overall I want to be happy and believe in my work. Money is okay, but not extremely important. Problem is both jobs would make me happy, in different ways. That’s why it’s very tough for me right now.
@ElusiveWords - Secondary job as in I will be in charge of running a particular contract that I’m overseeing, which means I’ll be paid through them for stuff I do. The first job would also pay for all my at home office supplies, which is cool. I would basically work at home 70% of the time and travel out to meet people the other times.
I think the experience from #1 is marketable, but the experience from #2 is more marketable and related to my current studies. There’s opportunities for growth in both jobs, but #2 will lead to higher salary in the long run.
@ordinary_gir1 - Actually your comment sounds pretty sound to me
I would go with the 2nd one if it was my decision.
Do what you love, love what you do…
which ever makes you happy.
@jeannie_dot_com - I definitely see your thought process there because I had the same one too. I would be working hard in #2, but I think it would be worth it in the end. I’m a little iffy about saying definitely #2 because of the fact I have been trying all this time to work for #1. Am I able to throw that opportunity away?
@elelkewljay - They both can sustain me, but #1 would make my wallet tighter. It would be harder to save up money for my schooling and etc., but I am still young. Although, I’m only getting older…ahh.
@puella_sapiens216 - I think both job will make me satisfied in different ways. #1 has been a passion of mine, but #2 has been a growing passion. What to do, what to do…
@noodley - Ah, I wish that was true. I seriously do not know which way to go. I have totally different things pulling me towards each side, each making sense to me.
@bluehoursky - I know, in the end I’ll be making the choice. Still, it’s good to get opinions from others because they may see it in different angles I would have missed. Still thinking, still thinking.
@veresi - Indeed I will. I’ve already pretty much got a good idea of how each work culture is like based on my contacts within. It kinda is a choice between idealism and pragmatism. Ahhh….
@Isodomic - Going in, I don’t think I will dislike working #2. I’m excited to work at either place, but each place will satisfy me in different ways.
@beesuze - Problem is, I think I can find myself loving both. It’s almost a question of whether I should go after my old love or my new love. XP
Number 3
@Rob_of_the_Sky - Of course! Why didn’t I think of that?
Can you not do both?
@MySecretLoveAffair - That I can not. Unless, I want to never sleep or have any sense of time for myself XP . So if you had to pick one or the other, which one would you pick if you were me?
while both are good choices, i would pick #2. some opportunities come once in a lifetime. you can always find a perfect job later, given your good experiences at org #2. but org #1 may limit your future choices. what i think is, you can always pursue the dream job after since you have the ability to pick a wide range of jobs. but the dream job may only be good at the current moment. i just feel it’s better for you in the long run, esp when marriages, kids, and property comes into play within the next 5-8 years of your life.
edit: though if you picked #1, im sure that would be a great choice also
) that was all just my opinion and how i would choose haha
@Roadlesstaken - Number 1, for now. If it doesn’t work out you can always do something that better utilizes your degree. And, in the meantime, you’re employed doing something you enjoy.
You already know what you’re passionate about. I say venture out and do something that seems to be less interesting and harder at first. When you open more doors for yourself, you’ll have the opportunity to find other passions as well as find a stable job.
Tough choices indeed. Maybe, like you said, wait till you hear from them then decide. Glad you are thinking about it. What if you got both offers? The following is just Steve thinking here, I would tell job#2 that I need to focus on getting the degree now, and thank them. At the same time, I would accept job #1, work and study at the same time, and see if I like the job #1. Give myself experience in both kinds of jobs, get a new degree faster, knowing the good and bad and future opportunities in both lines of work, and then make a good life-long decision on what I will be happy with long-term. Maybe I am too idealistic. Wish you the best!
I don’t think money should be your priority unless you’ve hit rock bottom and it’s your only opportunity. Take care of your school first. You can’t get anywhere without finishing school.
The “passion” choice. You’ll probably find more fulfillment in something you enjoy doing, even if it doesn’t pay as great as Organization #2.
… and who knows: More doors might open down this particular path, leading to a bigger, better opportunity and hopefully something that you will still enjoy and be passionate about.
#1 definitely sounds more appealing and flexible. Believe me, after working 4 years at a place where I dread waking up to go to, I considered myself lucky I haven’t gone psychotic. I’ve known people who have taken higher paying jobs over lower paying jobs but not all are happy. I’ve seen people give up being a doctor making 6 figures to go open up a bake shop. Ultimately, when I look at the 2 groups, people who choose their passion over pay, always seemed happier…
what do you see yourself doing down the road? more related to org1 or org2? if it’s org1 AND money is not an issue, then i’d go with passion. otherwise i’d go with org2.
@eomona - hahaha i picked that up too!!! =D
***
i’m not weighing in on your decision, my friend, but I am wishing you luck!!!
i don’t see how number #2 is better than #1, besides the pay. eh.
good luck with whatever you choose! someone mentioned it being all up to you and it is. we can be the two sides whispering in your ear, but who’s gonna put all the sweat and tears into it? YOU are! so good luck, with the decision and in the job! =)
organization #1
There’s nothing more satisfying than being able to look back when you’re retired and be able to tell yourself you went with your passion. Many people choose their head because society says so, many say it’s better to have the money… But you know what, so many things come up but rarely do you come across opportunities which you are passionate about. You don’t want to lose your life because of money or because you feel you need “new” experience, especially after you graduate. You’re at a point where you will begin to look into building a career for yourself, it’s not a hit and miss game anymore… Without passion, what will you be working for? Go with a job that will satisfy you as a whole and not just one or 2 parts of your life.
Hope this helps you a little =)
I can’t decide for you cos that’s your career. I’m just going to wish you luck and I’m sure whatever path you take you’re gonna do great. As you said, both choices are cool with you so I’m pretty sure there wouldn’t be much regrets. :)
“roadlesstaken”
Which means maybe you should take the road less taken. On top of that, if you went for that tennis job for so long – you’re hella memorable. Which means you’ll be super memorable when you’re working your way up higher.
Still though, you ultimately have to make the decision yourself. You can’t make a wrong decision in life, either way. You’re persistent, so you’re bound for greatness, my dear. I wish you the best of luck. <3
The decision is up to you, Alex. But if it was mine to make, I’d go with the passion job.
I’m curious though. Do you reasonably think you’ll continue your master’s if you went with a “more than full time” job?
also. weird (and completely irrelevent). we registered for our current accounts on the same day.
@Roadlesstaken - dont throw it away. you can still choose it. but if you have to, you might need to put it aside. chances are…you’ll weigh your options and our feed back til you get the response letters. …..is there absolutely no way that maybe…just maybe…one day those two options will work together?
i think organization number 1. i’ve always wanted people to go with there passion because that is what will make them happy. More people do go with the smart idea but in the end they end up hating there jobs. In the end, i say choose what makes you happy if you get offered both jobs. I hope you do because you are capable of each one. I will be having my fingers crossed for you. Good luck
Good luck with your decision! Sounds like a toughie! Could you be a dear and check out my most recent blog… I’d love to see what your 5 web secrets are. You seem well connected with the web world and must know tons of secrets (ahahaha… and like a billion Xanga secrets!! LOL. Thanks, hun!
If it was me, I’d go with #1
If money and success is more important to you, then go with number 2.
If chasing your dream is more important, go with number 1.
To be honest, I’d probably go with number 2. It’s an aspiration of mine to get a well-paying job that I don’t hate.
#2 sounds like it’s going to kill you and it’s not going to be fun
also CONGRATS on your masters. That’s amazing.
you sure the first one isn’t a smart choice too? more opportunity to manage your own affairs would be a plus over an entry level grunt job, i think.
Definitely depends with your current situation.
I’ve been told before that in order to choose a career, you must love what you do. I know a job is a job and it’s work but a career is most often for life and I think if what you do is for life, you need to at least have the desire and the passion to want to pursue it.
The choice is ultimately up to you. Good luck!
Number 1 – it has passion, possibility and you can get done with your studies!
First..how important is money in your situation. Second..EVERY career path we choose will require that we ‘prove’ ourselves or make sacrifices upon starting our careers–whether that may be you taking organization #1 and giving up organization #2′s salary offer or whether or not it may mean that you will be working 45 hours/week (for a higher paying job).
Best of luck!
The road less traveled. Choose what really makes you happy.
in my experience, when you are younger go with your passion choice. Typically if you are happy at a job, it will show in your productivity. It seems like working for your #1 choice will give you more time and also the possibility ability to lead your own projects…(the lack of a commute is a huge factor as well… after a while, it wears on you)
you said exactly what I wanted to say
I have one question and one comment – which will make you happier?!
comment, well, I’m a practical girl, so I saypick #2, work for number of years and then pursue your passion. you have a life ahead of you so I think you should take the job that applies to your career first, then if you get tired or become unhappy, move on to somethig else.. this way, you have experience under your belt and no job can turn u down anymore.. that’s justme though.. Goodluck!
I remember you talking about org #1 in the car. I say go for that one for three reasons 1. You are passionate about that org and what it stands for. 2. The leading projects part will further enhance your leadership skills which in org #2 will take a backseat. From experience, leadership skills are best to keep rolling at every opportunity. Also being more connected within an org is far more rewarding than working an entry position with little influence. 3. flexible schedule is needed to complete your masters. If you take org #2 you might have to finish masters even later. If u take org #1 you can finish masters on time and then go hunt for another opportunity after it’s done.
I don’t know if that helps, just came off my head. Good luck!!!
I’d say follow your heart. Congrats on the offer, seeing as you’ve wanted into that organization for so long!!
Not being aware of exactly the situation, I’d be willing to bet that once you get your masters you will be getting lots of good offersanyway, should you change your mind about this first organization in the future. But if you don’t take it you may always regret it. shrug.Nice to have such a dilemma. Sounds like the world is opening up to you now. Your hard work is paying off.. Best regards.
@suuperstar - You make a good case for #2. The stuff you said are definitely on my mind whenever I consider #1. Does the fact that I’ll still have to be in school for at least another year factor in at all for you?
@buiptammy - Indeed, #2 does seem like the bigger opportunities choice in the future. Hmm…
@stevew918 - And you make a good case for #1 haha. Ah, so many different potentials for each choice.
@twentyse7enn - So would you say #1 would be better for me then because it give me more time for school?
@mZdejavuZ - What if I told you I think I would also enjoy #2? It’s like a developing passion while #1 has been a long time passion.
@Utoppia@datingish - What place did you work at before that you didn’t like? If I didn’t like #2 at all it would be a much easier choice, but I kinda do.
Alex, without the specifics and without being inside your heart and head, it is hard to offer a specific answer. There are a ton of things to consider, of course, but let me throw out a few questions in the hopes that by evaluating the merits through different lenses, the best direction will be easier to see.
Working from home can be great (that’s what I’ve been doing from Thailand for almost five years) but the lack of in-person social networking can hurt career development, especially when you are new in an organization and/or career.
Money isn’t everything by any stretch of the imagination, but each step you take in your career will generally involve a step up in income. Where on the ladder would you like to begin? Especially as you reach the settling-down portion of your life, money doesn’t buy happiness but it can make a whole lot of worries go away.
What is it about organization number one that makes you want to work for them so badly? Is your image of the organization and why you want to work for them based on reality, or have you raised expectations after four attempts to a point where you may end up finding the grass isn’t nearly so green once you do go work there?
Does following the path with organization number two preclude the possibility of working with organization number one sometime in the future?
I hope these questions along with the comments made by others help you with your decision. In the end, maybe the decision will be much clearer when actual offers are on the table.
@lil_joycie - The thing is I can kinda see myself sticking into each industry for the long run. I’ll just be doing different things. Money is not as big of deal, but it does play a factor.
@M_E_M_O_I_R - It’s okay, you helped me out a lot in the pulse =)
@TheBigShowAtUD - Basically it’s more in line with my current masters field. Doing that job will make me look better for when I look for future jobs. Haven’t said that, does that change your thoughts on it?
@Delia712 - I know I know, in the end it’ll be me who decide. Just want to make sure I get all my angles covered =P
@unfrostedcereal - What reasons did you have for that pick?
@anonymouscapii - Thank you for your advice! I definitely got some help from your comment. So many things to consider…
@oxyGENE_08 - Yeah, I’m just a big worrier. I’m nervous I will look bak on my choice and thought man, I shouldn’t have did that.
@HelloKitty0809 - Yup, if I did indeed take the road less taken it would be #1. Still got a lot of thinking to do….
@DraculVanHelsing - What reasons did you consider for that choice?
@noodley - Either way, I definitely want to finish my masters. I’m half way done and have been getting As in my classes. It will be a valuable degree to have. What a coincidence we signed up for this site at the same time!
@boyhnc - Yeah, first thing first I have to get the offer from the jobs. Knowing my past job luck I should be more concern with that X_X
@booboo817 - alrighty, I’ll check it out.
@jumpthenfly - Indeed. Well, I wouldn’t say #2 is a super well paying job, it just pays more than #1 haha. However, eventually #2 would probably help me out more than #1 in getting a good paying job later on.
@kaiori - Eh, my friend is doing job #2 and juggling a full course load. I think if she can handle it I surely can. She does live closer though…
@BranmacFeabhail - That is true. Hmm…
@neekersha - #1 would more likely be a career as oppose to #2, which would be a stepping stone into a potential future career position.
@introvertdreams - It would be easier to do schooling through that route. Hmm…
@letter_E - Money isn’t super important, but it’s a nice incentive. You’re right though; both places will require me to prove myself.
@tsotofu - It does. Commutes, especially ones where I would have to drive then take the metro, is brutal.
I’m always tempted to go for passion—because there’s something inside us that leads us. Money means nothing when we dread the daily grime. But money makes the world go round…it’s a tough call. Good luck. Give us the update
@pasaway4eva - Nah I get it, I definitely have that practical side speaking to me too. Both jobs would bring me happiness, although #1 would probably appeal more to me intrinsically.
@Shades_of_Athena - It does help. I forgot I’ve talked to you about it before. See how long I’ve been pursuing that first job? haha
@Texana - Well, I haven’t gotten the offers just yet, although based on on my contacts I seem to have a good chance. Of course, I may very well have just jinxed myself X(
@christao408 - Good questions indeed. ElusiveWords and you seem to think alike. Yeah, we’ll see which way I go once I get a definitive offer.
@PinkMonganese - I generally follow my heart, which made me initially decide on #1. My brain just keeps thinking though and makes #2 sound equally appealing in different ways.
hm…
the road less taken?
I say go for the passion choice. I’m a little biased in the sense that I feel as though you should always be heading toward your passion because its whats going to make you happy and a happy Alex is a good Alex. Working over full time with all the stress of school might drive you insane. Just saying.
@Roadlesstaken - it’s the job I’m still at right now. Trust me when I tell you Monday makes me consider slitting my wrist constantly… =P
And as to why I don’t like it? Well let’s just say I went into the job thinking it was going to be something worth while and what I could be doing to advance my career but that never happened. Was suppose to get a promotion but the market crashed so that never happened. Was suppose to be more creative but constantly have to deal with boring unoriginal people who wants to put a pie chart on a magazine cover, so creativity down the drain. Its all the little things like these that adds up and makes me wonder if I had gone down a different path and taken a less paying job but doing something more creative, would I be happier?
That’s a hard one! At the end of the day, you have to do what you WANT to do more. If you really want Organization 1 then go for it! If you don’t, you might always wonder what if? So do what you want to do and love doing. Organization 1 would also allow you to finish your Masters and less commute, which is awesome! Do what YOU want to do and are passionate about!
ahhh.. passion vs money eh…? the ultimate job choice.. why can’t it be both..
for me, i’d choose the one with a greater risk/challenge. Coz you’re young and time is what you have. But again, u said that job 2 builds up to a future career.. I don’t know..
from what i read, i’m more towards job 1. I don’t know, probably the way you wrote it. Probably just me (am doing job 1 myself, full time
.. not in charge of any projects though.. hmm..)
@Roadlesstaken - Si, numero uno.
Oh this is about a job? I thought it was about a potential someone when I read the title. I was going to make a bad pun on the “to follow my head” part lol.
#1 seems like the one you really “like” the most and #2 has long commutes which is a waste of time and uses up gas which is not good for the environment. Unless you really need the money for something…. I don’t see why you should pick #2 but you still might have student loans or something. I also think you could go to great heights without a grunt job for your resume ^^ If you aren’t doing work that’s fulfilling like your #1 choice than it’ll feel pretty tiresome after a while.
I once went with a job which paid great money instead of the passion job and I regretted my choice. I hated that job.
#1 because in the end you will enjoy it more, and you will finish school… you have been fighting so long, why stop once you have it in your sights?!
@Roadlesstaken - it’ll be hard, but doing part-time study while working has its benefits. this is the path im intending to take in 3 years or so, and this is what i’ve heard from my “research” into working in large firms in an entry position: getting a masters part time while working is pretty tough, but its definitely worth it. large organizations value the time and effort they put into a valued employee. after youve worked there for quite some time (and im assuming you work well=)), you getting your masters is only going to upgrade whever they invested into you. they’ll want to keep you around and offer even better jobs and incentives. if not, you have the experience and definitely the qualifications needed to take any job from a rival firm. its hard work, but the pay off is great. i think im just a more practical person :S
oh ok.. not an easy choice. think about it.. but i think allow yourself to take a break from thinking about it. good luck!
A service job. Perhaps a little like your Org. #1?
not at all, sir. you’ll still have transferable skills from the other position that’s not related to your master’s work. besides, you’ll always do better at something you really like rather than something you HAVE to do and want to get out of. you might end up getting used to the money and then never switching to what you really want to do.
a lot of grads in my law school class had the same issue. the ones who chose the money over what they knew they’d love doing are too used to the money they make that they’ll probably never go into what really matters to them. i say do what you’ll like, and see what opportunities come from it, especially if you’ve been working so hard to get your foot in the door.
If you need the money, I think you should take #2. I would take the passion choice though if I really didn’t need the money.
Passion, definitely. I mean, sure, you will probably be happy at the other job too, but if you can do something you REALLY love and get some okay bucks for it, it seems like the smartest choice. Good luck with either, though! Let us know what ends up happening =)
I believe you need to weigh out all the pros and cons beyond what each job offers.
To be chasing something for so, so, so very long has to mean something. It really seems like a passion you are chasing. Passions are a true embodiment of whom we are as human beings, some people follow them, and some take the other road and always look back wondering if they should have. I am not quite sure if this is your passion, or offers aspects that relate to your passion… either way, I still believe you need to weigh things out between your head and your heart. One should never lead before the other, there should be balance somewhere in there.
Does one feel more right than the other?
Usually a feeling, well to me anyway, is a prediction of what should and was meant to be.
Uncertainty without a definate feeling may be based on fears or confusion alone, however, it could also be a sign of what is not meant to be. Sometimes that is hard to figure out. Not sure if you meditate, but for some that helps them find their center and the answers that they need, that they otherwise could not find.
seems to me, the only good thing about org. #2 is the pay.
org. #1 does have more pros than org. #2 but i dont know, i dont want to give bad advice. its really just my own personal opinion.
either way, i hope you get both jobs. you seem nice enough hahaha.
@Roadlesstaken - look at the future then…will you love the job always
I’d say #1 for now, simply because of the more flexible working hours making it easier to fit into your class schedule. Plus it’s with an organisation you’ve been dying to work for all these years – a major bonus!
i vote for the smart choice. in my own opinion, the things we are passionate about are the things that are quite “easy” for us to do and learn. we like it either we are good at it or we know we can be good at it. but would you rather do something you already know u are good at or take the challenge and sort of put yourself out there and welcome the challenge. if you feel like you’ll be able to learn more on org 2 and that it will help u further ur career, then i suggest u make the smart choice… but that’s just me
I work for a family business the pay stinks but my heart bleeds for it…. I spent a while trying to figure out what in the world I was gonna do. I tried all kinds of different things after school…but, I missed it so much everyday. In the end I decided that my love for what I do means the world to me. I don’t care if I live in a cardboard box. I love it there and really would not have it any other way.
So I geuss what I am saying is do what makes you happy. Not the one that pays more or the one that looks better on the resume. But go for the one that makes your heart happy !!! Good Luck!!!
Do work that you enjoy rather than hate. You wouldn’t get much out of a job you don’t like, and it won’t last long? Besides, you’ve been wanting this job for ages! So passion would be my choice – from the points you have given, the pros outweigh number 2.
@Roadlesstaken - #1 ’cause as you’ve said, after applying for several times, you finally have this rare chance to get in. I mean, would you let this exceptional opportunity pass?
Oh well, it’s up to you anyway. Good luck in choosing the best road!
@Roadlesstaken - Yeah, Matt and I seem to be of similar mind on a lot of comments.
always your head.
Your desire is fire. It’s either somebody else’s for your death or it’s something that you think you want that you’ll get bored of. A window isn’t worth a paycheck because work gets boring.
I’ll never have a decent job ever again because I can’t control my environment, so I absorb “sins.” Thus, I usually do whatever benefits me like staying home all day instead of getting a parttime then fucked into getting stuck there forever when I can just sit and read instead of waste my time flipping meat. I can write and stuff.
I don’t care what people say. They did this, so they can shut it. I’m not a productive member of society, and I won’t be there either. Been there, done that, treated like shit.
If something good comes along, I’ll take it, but it won’t, so I’d rather delve into the sin of worthlessness than struggle in stupidity any longer. They got everything by chance, and they can hand one over if they ever expect anything. The world owes me nothing; I don’t owe the world.
That’s my head. If I had a heart, I’d feel guilty or something. Been there, done that. Church wants to love me along with the woods and my paper box. Oh, you’re good people; keep being good.
@Roadlesstaken - Ah yes, then that changes a lot… If it’s a developing passion with Organization #2, then I say go for it… And see what other opportunities arise from taking a chance. Organization #1 still sounds like you would have a lot of freedom and control over what you’ll be doing (something that you love and enjoy already). Which ever choice you decide, follow your heart and do what’s right for you. You know underneath it all what you really want, in your heart of hearts.
numero dos
sorry for the day late response. happy memorial day dude!:D
if the choice isn’t made….i think choice 2. both sound like pretty good opportunities either way. and both will offer you learning that you won’t get anywhere. you’re lucky that both would make you pleased. though, in the long run, the job that will make you happiest will end up capturing your mind, body and soul and you’d feel even more motivated to work their in the end. it doesn’t matter what the benefits, the perks….you’re still young and if you think you can handle having side jobs on top of student life and stuff….than kudos to you. but i would choose 2, soley because pay is more and skills are more marketable. even lasting in such a company one year looks VERY enticing (meaning you can reapply to job 1 later with MORE skills if you still want to be in that company).
I would take choice number one. That’s because I read the list that
went with option two and it made me go “ewwww.” But I believe you and I
are different when it comes to “ewwww,” so this is by no means a reason
to choose option one.
That’s so hard to choose =( I think it depends on what you need most at the moment. I think you will be happier if you choose option #1. Again, that’s just what I think. What do you think?
A wise teacher once told me, “Do what you love and the money will come.”
Go with the one that doesn’t block Xanga!
@indiechaos - I do much prefer to be a happy Alex than a sad one. I think both would make me happier than where I am right now, although #2 will probably be more stressful and time consuming.
@throughsamseyes - Does the fact that #1 relates to tennis play any factor? =)
@yan_ni - #1 could also lead me to a career, just a different one from what I’m studying. Then again, #1 would have some transferrable skills…What are you doing now? You haven’t updated in a while!
@Keeko1 - Haha I was thinking someone would bring that up!
@unfrostedcereal - There would be some grunt work involved with #2. I’m willing to do some of it given the right conditions.
@DraculVanHelsing - What job was that?
@VintonBren - That’s what making me want to do job #1. I’ve been chasing it so long that to let go of the opportunity now would seem like a waste. Hmm…
@lil_joycie - Much easier said then done haha. It’s all I’ve been thinking about this past week! Ahhhh
@TheBigShowAtUD - Sound advice. I’ll definitely take that into consideration.
@xchinkylaydee - Money is a plus, but yeah I don’t absolutely need it need it.
@SerenaDante - If I end up getting either job, you bet I’m going to be cheering! I’ll probably shoot a video of myself dancing like a lunatic haha.
@autumnmarie - #1 does feel more right, although #2 feels right in a different way. I’ve made a long list of pros and cons for each, trust me XP
@MsxDiary - Haha, thank you =)
@mystic_sapphire - Major bonus indeed! I wish they would be faster with their replies though. They originally said they would tell me last Monday! I’m still waiting.
@on_call247 - Yup, you definitely reason the way my logical side is thinking right now.
@translucentchicka - Thanks for telling me your experience! I’ll remember this if I have to decide between the two.
@ice_babe_4eva - I don’t think I’ll necessarily hate #2′s work, but I do think I would enjoy what I do in #1 more. Hmm…
@sabbygurl - The only downside with trying to reapply to #1 is that the place is extremely hard to get into. Even with all my networks I still find it difficult to put my foot in because of all the competition. Ah, we shall see.
@randaness - Haha, what exactly made you go eww on list #2?
@stray_sparrow - In general, I think I’ll be happy doing either. One’s old passion, one’s new passion.
@wyrdkismet - What if I love sleeping? =P
@CareyGLY - Haha, well I’ll be working at home with #1 so that won’t!
@Roadlesstaken - hahahaha, alex u crack me up.
maybe you can find some psychology study where they pay you to sleep and study your dreams, lol.
@Roadlesstaken - Omg. Really? That’s awesome, I think I know what number one is! Do what you want to do and are passionate about!
@Roadlesstaken - long commute and work hours
Risk it, man. Success comes from happiness. Not money. But you know that, I’m sure.
@johnny_hopkins - Sometimes, I could use the reminder =)
you are so right.. i haven’t written in so long.. haha.. must get to that soon!!
Wow, tough choice. I can’t say for sure which one I would choose if I were you, (since I’m not
) but my advice in considering any job choice would be to choose the one you think you’d be most happy doing. Aside from the pay, etc. when you start doing the actual work that you will be doing each day, which one do you see yourself being most happy at? There is nothing better than working at something you enjoy.
@SarahLynn_violin - I think the good thing is that both places I feel I would be happy working at. It’s all the extraneous factors that are making the decision tougher.
@Roadlesstaken - I see. Well, for what it’s worth, I thought the first option sounded like the better one.
@SarahLynn_violin - It kinda does doesn’t it? Although right now, #2 is sounding better because #1 is taking their sweet time letting me know what’s the deal X(
@Roadlesstaken - Oh, has #2 already contacted you?
@SarahLynn_violin - we’re in the interviewing process right now. I have a good friend who works there who’s giving me the intel. So far so good!
@Roadlesstaken - Great!
The road less taken.
I say the Passion choice.
Number one.
The way you’ve written this, I’m thinking genuinely want to work in Organization #1. If I were you, I would choose Organization #2, but I think you will probably be happier in Organization #1, so go for it.
@pockypoppy - I think the fact I’ve chased after #1 for so long makes me want it more in that regard. Still, #2 would be a good way to start fresh with something else. Hmm…
My name is Craig. please add me and check out my new sportsblog
thanks
I’ve always chosen passion over smart =/
@wonderland7386 - Why do you seem unhappy with that?
@Roadlesstaken - no, not sad. but the passion road can be harder than the smart road.
@wonderland7386 - True true, but at least there’s more job satisfaction, yes? Well if things work out well #1 will be both the passion AND smart choice.
wow. that’s a toughy. i have no idea what i’d do. did you make a decision yet?
@orangemirrors - Hopefully tomorrow I will. I think my decision is pretty much being made for me.
passion? it’ll make you happy in the end. i would choose 1. forget money, if you are passionate about something, you would work harder and money will go your way.
@AzNgUrl3510 - At this point, I actually think #1 would pay almost as much if not more than #2!
Trust me, sometimes its not you to choose the choice, but the choice choose you.
So, just follow ur heart. But i get to know u have get ur dream job. Happy for u
@bbcocokim - Yeah in the end, the choice really shouldn’t have been that hard to make =)