1. Trip to Spain with my sestra
2. Graduate from B School
3. Decide about the CPA/CMA Exams and then, if yes, take at least one part
4. Sestra's Wedding
5. Healthier version of me
6. Attend Write Club more often
7. Plan 5 year anniversary for Scotch Group
8. Build my Etsy Shop Business
9. Decide about Career path - Fulfillment to Operations Director or take a step back and go 100% Accounting
10. Create and Stick to a Budget
11. Pay down Debt and prepare finances for student loan repayment
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Monday, December 28, 2015
5 Year Goals
A little less than five years ago, I started down a path. I took a class at the local community college to see if I liked Accounting and if I thought it was something I could pursue realistically. For someone who had always been, "The Writer," and "not good at math," it was incredibly freeing to realize that there was something analytical that I was really good at doing. The reason I had never felt completely comfortable with the 'artsy' label was that it wasn't the only side to me.
This spring, I will hopefully graduate from Towson with my Masters in Accounting and Business Advisory Services. Then I have to consider what to do next. I should take the CPA and I will probably end up doing that. But I find it to be very intimidating and my career path has become slightly different in the last five years.
At the time I started the Masters program, five years felt like such a long time. And now it's here and it doesn't feel like it was that long ago I started. Perhaps this is how long term goals feel once they're achieved, or nearly achieved. When we're looking at the road before us it seems long and winding and unfamiliar, but when we look back over where we've been it's no longer a mystery.
This spring, I will hopefully graduate from Towson with my Masters in Accounting and Business Advisory Services. Then I have to consider what to do next. I should take the CPA and I will probably end up doing that. But I find it to be very intimidating and my career path has become slightly different in the last five years.
At the time I started the Masters program, five years felt like such a long time. And now it's here and it doesn't feel like it was that long ago I started. Perhaps this is how long term goals feel once they're achieved, or nearly achieved. When we're looking at the road before us it seems long and winding and unfamiliar, but when we look back over where we've been it's no longer a mystery.
Monday, January 19, 2015
New Year Thoughts
I recently learned that a friend from my high school days passed away. I can't say we were incredibly close, we probably haven't spoken since our graduation. But I would see her posts on Facebook and we would occasionally exchange comments on photos. I know she had a great sense of humor, a beautiful family, and was incredibly helpful to other friends who were struggling with a similar disease. Our 15 year reunion would have been this year, but no one actually planned the event. When I e-mailed about the reunion in September the response was, "I guess we'll just have to wait for the 20 year." Like we had all the time in the world.
But the reality is that we don't and we, as human beings, take so many things for granted. Last year, I talked about focusing more on experiences and less on things. Unfortunately, I don't think I did a very good job of it as the year went on. So my thoughts have been on this the last couple of days.
- My Health - I take it for granted. I'm not doing the things I need to do to keep me healthy. The fact that I haven't had any major health problems is pure luck.
- School & my Future - It's been this nebulous thing. A general direction I'm headed in, but without any light at the end of the tunnel. I'm finally starting my first semester of graduate classes after finishing up the pre-reqs last semester. It's real. This time next year I'll be stressing about graduation.
- My Friends - I've not made the effort I'd like to to try and keep up with people. Having drinks or going out is like pulling teeth since I've started school. It feels like depression, but it's really just that I enjoy my free time to do nothing.
- My Family - This is another area where I need to make more of an effort. Shane is going off to the Marines in a few months and this may be the last real time I get to spend with him.
- My Finances - I'm not keeping track the way I need to and a few difficult decisions may need to be made. They're not completely out of hand, but I've run up some serious debt again. If I want to be the successful adult I envision after graduate school, I need to get this other debt in hand so it doesn't interfere with student loans and life plans.
We become so busy with the details of life that we miss out on the bigger picture. We don't keep up the relationships that support us through the difficult times and then we wonder why everything is so difficult.
Saturday, November 8, 2014
B-School Applications: Personal Statement Rough Draft
“. . .We feel, conceive or reason, laugh or weep;
Embrace fond woe, or cast our cares away:
It is the same! -For, be it joy or sorrow,
The path of its departure still is free:
Man's yesterday may ne'er be like his morrow;
Nought may endure but Mutablilty.”
- From “Mutability” by Percy Bysshe Shelley
From the very first visit I made to the Library of Congress, in school, I knew that I wanted to work there. The historical, political, and cultural significance contained in those buildings is inspiring and every minute detail of the Jefferson Building contains a symbol reflecting our national heritage or an homage to the other cultures that influenced on our founding fathers. There are many people in this world who, from a young age, know exactly what they want to do with the rest of their lives and some of them are even fortunate enough to attain those aspirations. For the rest of us, however, our lives tend to be a series of compromises which slow our individual growth and interfere with our professional journey.
My younger sister and I were the first in our family to even consider going to college and, growing up, we were always told we would have to win scholarships. Our parents had lived paycheck to paycheck and, even though they wanted something better for their children, they did not have the means to provide for the educational foundation we would need. But they laid a very prominent corner stone by instilling their value of education in us. Indeed, I worked diligently in high school and received a scholarship from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). My parents were unable to advise me when it came to applications, financial aid, college courses, or selecting a major. I learned to be self reliant in wading through all the information and bold in seeking out counsel from advisers or professors. I still had to work a full time job while attending classes to cover the remaining cost of my education. It was often a struggle but it helped me develop exceptional time management skills and I know that everything I have accomplished has come from my own perseverance.
It wasn't until I was a sophomore in college that my mother's health became a cause for concern. My parents divorced when I was eleven, so the responsibility of my mother's care fell to me. I spent most of that year attending classes, visiting in the hospital, and working full eight hour shifts at my job. The struggle to maintain my grade point average while dealing with these outside problems brought me to the decision to take a year off from school. It was one of the hardest choices I've ever had to make. I wanted to pursue my own dreams but couldn't deny the help my family needed and my divided attention would only cause both to suffer. I learned that it is better to do something well than to spread one's self too thin trying to maintain everything. After a heart stent was implanted in her left anterior descending artery, and her physical health vastly improved, I felt I could return the majority of my attention back to school.
Upon graduating from UMBC, I found it difficult to get a job with the federal government let alone in my field of study. The economy was slowing down and, without an advanced degree, my future at the Library of Congress was in doubt. I had envisioned a job in Editing, Substitute Teaching, or the Library Sciences, but my first job offer came from the Accounting department of a custom home builder and I've always felt that any positive opportunity is an experience waiting to happen. Still, it was surprising to discover how the analytical skills I had developed in undergrad dovetailed with the skills I acquired working in Accounting. When that company folded, during the beginning of the housing crisis, I had several months to re-evaluate my professional path and decided that, with my work experience, it was still possible for me to aim for a position at the Library of Congress though not the one originally envisioned.
During the years I was pursuing my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, it seemed that my life was nothing but compromises; for my family, my full-time job, and my budget. My personal goal of working at the Library of Congress was pushed further and further away until it seemed almost unattainable. But life is about change and growing from those changes. Without these challenges we would not have the opportunity to push our individual boundaries and learn all that we're capable of achieving. I know that I have the discipline to make my studies a priority, the strength to make difficult life decisions, and the resilience to accept change.
It wasn't until I was a sophomore in college that my mother's health became a cause for concern. My parents divorced when I was eleven, so the responsibility of my mother's care fell to me. I spent most of that year attending classes, visiting in the hospital, and working full eight hour shifts at my job. The struggle to maintain my grade point average while dealing with these outside problems brought me to the decision to take a year off from school. It was one of the hardest choices I've ever had to make. I wanted to pursue my own dreams but couldn't deny the help my family needed and my divided attention would only cause both to suffer. I learned that it is better to do something well than to spread one's self too thin trying to maintain everything. After a heart stent was implanted in her left anterior descending artery, and her physical health vastly improved, I felt I could return the majority of my attention back to school.
Upon graduating from UMBC, I found it difficult to get a job with the federal government let alone in my field of study. The economy was slowing down and, without an advanced degree, my future at the Library of Congress was in doubt. I had envisioned a job in Editing, Substitute Teaching, or the Library Sciences, but my first job offer came from the Accounting department of a custom home builder and I've always felt that any positive opportunity is an experience waiting to happen. Still, it was surprising to discover how the analytical skills I had developed in undergrad dovetailed with the skills I acquired working in Accounting. When that company folded, during the beginning of the housing crisis, I had several months to re-evaluate my professional path and decided that, with my work experience, it was still possible for me to aim for a position at the Library of Congress though not the one originally envisioned.
During the years I was pursuing my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, it seemed that my life was nothing but compromises; for my family, my full-time job, and my budget. My personal goal of working at the Library of Congress was pushed further and further away until it seemed almost unattainable. But life is about change and growing from those changes. Without these challenges we would not have the opportunity to push our individual boundaries and learn all that we're capable of achieving. I know that I have the discipline to make my studies a priority, the strength to make difficult life decisions, and the resilience to accept change.
Friday, November 9, 2012
School Planning (Spring 2013-Semester)
I created a spreadsheet to list all of the required classes, and the estimated semesters I would take them, to see when my potential graduation date would be. If I only take two classes a semester and give myself a break for the winter (meaning I take two classes in the Summer as well as the Fall and Spring), then I could graduate in 2017. If I take three classes in the Spring or Fall for the undergrad requirements, I could graduate in 2015 or 2016. I don't want to push myself to the point of breaking, but I honestly think I could have handled three classes this semester.
So, as of right now, I am registered for ACCT301 (Intermediate Accounting), ACCT341 (Cost Accounting), and PHIL371(Business Ethics). I'm hoping the accounting classes won't be too difficult, especially since it's been over a semester since I had to think that way. My current accounting class is Information Systems and focuses more on the processes than the recording. My other classmates recommend taking Cost Accounting and the first Intermediate together as they are complementary, so hopefully that's true. But I will have class on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday nights.
I think I definitely need to let Hallmark know that I need to focus on school and my day job. I'm hoping I can get my finances in order enough that I don't need the second job at all. It's also going to be more money for the semester and overall I'll pay more out of pocket. But if it means I can get my degree, and a better salary, sooner it's probably worth it. Mostly, I'm just worried about stressing myself out too much.
So, as of right now, I am registered for ACCT301 (Intermediate Accounting), ACCT341 (Cost Accounting), and PHIL371(Business Ethics). I'm hoping the accounting classes won't be too difficult, especially since it's been over a semester since I had to think that way. My current accounting class is Information Systems and focuses more on the processes than the recording. My other classmates recommend taking Cost Accounting and the first Intermediate together as they are complementary, so hopefully that's true. But I will have class on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday nights.
I think I definitely need to let Hallmark know that I need to focus on school and my day job. I'm hoping I can get my finances in order enough that I don't need the second job at all. It's also going to be more money for the semester and overall I'll pay more out of pocket. But if it means I can get my degree, and a better salary, sooner it's probably worth it. Mostly, I'm just worried about stressing myself out too much.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
First Day of Grad School
I've been taking classes at CCBC this summer, as part of my prerequisites for Grad School, but there was something altogether different about traveling to Towson University for my very first Fall Semester class. It's as if I finally believed I was doing this. Not when I filled out the paperwork for school, not when I paid the semester tuition, not when I purchased the books for class. But walking across campus with my bag slung across my shoulder, catching snatches of undergraduate conversation, and searching for my classroom finally made it real to me.
All of my classes are in Stephen's Hall on the Towson campus. It's one of the original buildings on campus and the set-up makes me feel like Professor Indiana Jones should come sweeping through the door to lecture at the podium. I am incredibly excited to be in this place at this time in my life.
All of my classes are in Stephen's Hall on the Towson campus. It's one of the original buildings on campus and the set-up makes me feel like Professor Indiana Jones should come sweeping through the door to lecture at the podium. I am incredibly excited to be in this place at this time in my life.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Time Out
I have been very remiss of late. Attending classes this summer and a shake-up at work have taken up the bulk of my time and updating my blog has taken a back seat. My apologies. But I have two full weeks to catch up on reading/writing/etc.
First, I have successfully completed Intro Accounting II and Intro Macroeconomics with an "A" in both subjects. Finishing the accounting class was difficult because I think the teacher lost interest before the students did. But it was the Macroeconomics class that proved the most difficult. I've never taken an online class before, so I wasn't sure what to expect, and I can honestly say that I need the reinforcement of classroom lectures to actually learn a subject. Thankfully, my sister is an economist by nature, and education, so I was able to talk a lot of things out with her.
Second, I'm not 100% my job is secure right now. As of July 1st, I was transferred over to the commercial side of my company, from the government side, and given new programs to work on. There is a lot of up-in-the-air-transition-type-stuff going on right now, but I am basically still doing my old job along pieces of my new job. I have not yet had a formal discussion with my new boss, she's out on medical leave, or been given an understanding of what exactly they expect me to do in this new job. I can already see that it's going to be a lot less involved than my old job and my old boss is trying to beef up my skill set in the interim so I have the best possible chance at growth. But overall, I don't get the feeling that the commercial side of the company is all that interested in what I can do for the company.
Third, everything seems to be in transition right now. It's like I'm stuck in between worlds. I'm transitioning into being a graduate student, but I have undergraduate prerequisites to complete first. I'm transitioning into being a commercial employee, but I don't have a clear understanding of what that means. I'm exclusively dating someone, but it's not yet recognized as a relationship by either of us. I live in Baltimore but every time I visit my sister I want to move to Atlanta. There is all this potential energy building and it's going to propel me down different paths, but I'm not certain of what all those paths are or whether they're good or bad for me yet.
My sister and I keep talking about good drama vs. bad drama. There's always stress in your life that can cause drama, some of that will positively effect your life and some of it will have a negative impact. The school stress, is definitely the good kind. It's something I am doing to make my life better down the road. The job stress, has the potential to be negative depending on how I respond to it. I could be active and push for more information about this new position, I could be proactive and find new work, or I could do nothing and wait for someone to tell me what direction they've chosen for me. I'm really not good with that last one, but the longer I hesitate on whether to be active or proactive the better chance I will let someone else make that decision for me.
First, I have successfully completed Intro Accounting II and Intro Macroeconomics with an "A" in both subjects. Finishing the accounting class was difficult because I think the teacher lost interest before the students did. But it was the Macroeconomics class that proved the most difficult. I've never taken an online class before, so I wasn't sure what to expect, and I can honestly say that I need the reinforcement of classroom lectures to actually learn a subject. Thankfully, my sister is an economist by nature, and education, so I was able to talk a lot of things out with her.
Second, I'm not 100% my job is secure right now. As of July 1st, I was transferred over to the commercial side of my company, from the government side, and given new programs to work on. There is a lot of up-in-the-air-transition-type-stuff going on right now, but I am basically still doing my old job along pieces of my new job. I have not yet had a formal discussion with my new boss, she's out on medical leave, or been given an understanding of what exactly they expect me to do in this new job. I can already see that it's going to be a lot less involved than my old job and my old boss is trying to beef up my skill set in the interim so I have the best possible chance at growth. But overall, I don't get the feeling that the commercial side of the company is all that interested in what I can do for the company.
Third, everything seems to be in transition right now. It's like I'm stuck in between worlds. I'm transitioning into being a graduate student, but I have undergraduate prerequisites to complete first. I'm transitioning into being a commercial employee, but I don't have a clear understanding of what that means. I'm exclusively dating someone, but it's not yet recognized as a relationship by either of us. I live in Baltimore but every time I visit my sister I want to move to Atlanta. There is all this potential energy building and it's going to propel me down different paths, but I'm not certain of what all those paths are or whether they're good or bad for me yet.
My sister and I keep talking about good drama vs. bad drama. There's always stress in your life that can cause drama, some of that will positively effect your life and some of it will have a negative impact. The school stress, is definitely the good kind. It's something I am doing to make my life better down the road. The job stress, has the potential to be negative depending on how I respond to it. I could be active and push for more information about this new position, I could be proactive and find new work, or I could do nothing and wait for someone to tell me what direction they've chosen for me. I'm really not good with that last one, but the longer I hesitate on whether to be active or proactive the better chance I will let someone else make that decision for me.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
B-School: Fall Semester
I have formally decided to attend Towson University, even though I have recently learned the joint program with University of Baltimore is not really "Joint" so much as it's co-operative. Basically, I can take classes at UB without having to enroll at both schools and with permission from the department head. However, when I graduate, I will only have a degree from Towson University. This has apparently caused a lot of confusion with the MS in Accounting & Business Advisory Students.
Now, I am just trying to get my Fall schedule lined up. Ideally I would like to take Accounting 300 on Monday night and US Business Law on Tuesday nights, but it looks like I might have to take the Management class at 8:00 in the morning on M, W, and F if I can't bypass the pre-requisites.
Wish me luck.
Now, I am just trying to get my Fall schedule lined up. Ideally I would like to take Accounting 300 on Monday night and US Business Law on Tuesday nights, but it looks like I might have to take the Management class at 8:00 in the morning on M, W, and F if I can't bypass the pre-requisites.
Wish me luck.
Monday, May 7, 2012
B-School: Acceptance Letter (The Reach School)
If I was relieved to get my acceptance letter from Towson/UB, you can imagine I am completely shocked to get one from American University in Washington, DC. I applied there as my reach school, mostly to see if I could but not really expecting to make the cut, and I am just over the moon about my acceptance. It's #87 out of the top #100 business programs in the country, in THE COUNTRY. There were 32 students accepted into their program last year and I could be one of them this year.
With Towson and UB I felt that I had met their qualifications so that's why they accepted me, but with American I honestly feel it's because of my efforts with the essays. The median GMAT and median GPA were both higher than what I had. I knew that the essays would have to be some kind of amazing in order to get in and I worked my ass off on them. I had multiple people read and re-read them until I was satisfied. Writing truly is one of my greatest strengths and I think I had forgotten that somewhere along the way. (Yes, I write here and at my job but it's never a concentrated effort to achieve something.) But more importantly, I set a goal and then followed the steps to get to that goal and it completely paid off. I accomplished what I set out to do and I did it well.
So I know that, regardless of which program I ultimately decide to go with, I will succeed in this long term goal of earning my Master's Degree. Yes, going to classes for the next 4-7 years is a longer period of time than the last year I've spent preparing for and applying to grad school. But I know that I have the tools and the ambition to finish whatever I want to set my mind to. It's a powerful feeling, I'm not really sure how else to describe it. I need to bottle this for those times when I feel that the walls are closing in on me.
So often I feel like I am a great pretender, just going through the motions of what I think people expect, and I don't realize that I really am that talented, intelligent, multi-faceted person. This acceptance is evidence I can hold in my hand that says I really am that good. But it's so much bigger than that. It's all those times when my dad's ex would tell me I was stupid or worthless made infinitely smaller in the bigger picture of my life. It's me not letting that time period define me or control my future - harnessing that negative energy and turning into something positive for myself. And, if I can do that, hell, I can do anything.
With Towson and UB I felt that I had met their qualifications so that's why they accepted me, but with American I honestly feel it's because of my efforts with the essays. The median GMAT and median GPA were both higher than what I had. I knew that the essays would have to be some kind of amazing in order to get in and I worked my ass off on them. I had multiple people read and re-read them until I was satisfied. Writing truly is one of my greatest strengths and I think I had forgotten that somewhere along the way. (Yes, I write here and at my job but it's never a concentrated effort to achieve something.) But more importantly, I set a goal and then followed the steps to get to that goal and it completely paid off. I accomplished what I set out to do and I did it well.
So I know that, regardless of which program I ultimately decide to go with, I will succeed in this long term goal of earning my Master's Degree. Yes, going to classes for the next 4-7 years is a longer period of time than the last year I've spent preparing for and applying to grad school. But I know that I have the tools and the ambition to finish whatever I want to set my mind to. It's a powerful feeling, I'm not really sure how else to describe it. I need to bottle this for those times when I feel that the walls are closing in on me.
So often I feel like I am a great pretender, just going through the motions of what I think people expect, and I don't realize that I really am that talented, intelligent, multi-faceted person. This acceptance is evidence I can hold in my hand that says I really am that good. But it's so much bigger than that. It's all those times when my dad's ex would tell me I was stupid or worthless made infinitely smaller in the bigger picture of my life. It's me not letting that time period define me or control my future - harnessing that negative energy and turning into something positive for myself. And, if I can do that, hell, I can do anything.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
B-School: Acceptance Letter
I received an acceptance letter from the Towson/University of Baltimore joint Master of Science in Accounting and Business Advisory Services program over the weekend. I hate to say that I was worried I wouldn't be accepted, for the most part I hadn't even entertained that thought - it just wasn't a possibility, but I definitely breathed a sigh of relief when I opened up the envelope and read the word, "Congratulations." It is conditional acceptance, I think because I have an English Degree and not business, so I'll have to maintain a 3.0 or be dropped from the program altogether. I'm not worried about that though. I have a goal in mind and I'm moving forward.
I've scheduled a meeting with the program director for advising and everything seems to be moving forward very nicely. I estimate it will cost me about $5,000 a semester and my company will reimburse about $5,000 a year, so that means I will take out anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 a year in student loans. If I take 2 classes a semester and only attend the fall and spring semesters, it will take me about 6.5 years to finish and about $30, 000 to $60,000 in student loans when all is said and done. If I take summer and winter classes, I can be finished in 4.5 years and about $30,000 to $45,000 in student loans.
I feel pretty good about this. By the time I am 35/36 I could have my masters in Accounting. The next thing to consider will be whether or not I want to seriously consider sitting for the CPA exam.
I've scheduled a meeting with the program director for advising and everything seems to be moving forward very nicely. I estimate it will cost me about $5,000 a semester and my company will reimburse about $5,000 a year, so that means I will take out anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 a year in student loans. If I take 2 classes a semester and only attend the fall and spring semesters, it will take me about 6.5 years to finish and about $30, 000 to $60,000 in student loans when all is said and done. If I take summer and winter classes, I can be finished in 4.5 years and about $30,000 to $45,000 in student loans.
I feel pretty good about this. By the time I am 35/36 I could have my masters in Accounting. The next thing to consider will be whether or not I want to seriously consider sitting for the CPA exam.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
B-School: First Application Submitted
I'm not entirely sure how, but my sister has successfully give me her cold. I had a headache for the last twenty-four hours and was starting to get concerned. Then I woke up this morning with all kinds of congestion and nasty.
Of course, today is the deadline for my American University application if I want to be in the running for merit scholarships. I worked on my essays late into the night last night and made a few more tweaks this morning. (Thank you, Andrea Schwartz, for helping me with that.)Needless to say, this morning I feel pretty exhausted.
On the bright side, I have successfully submitted my application! Or, at least, the university has successfully taken the $100 application fee from my bank account. In talking with my sister, I realize that I'm not really that concerned about being accepted into the grad programs. Eeven with my average GMAT score and sad undergraduate GPA it didn't really cross my mind that I wouldn't be accepted. I am more concerned about how I would pay for the education overall.
Possibly this is how I compartmentalize things so I can handle the stress more easily. I don't have a say in whether or not I am accepted into the programs. I only know that I have written two amazing essays and worked very hard the last 6 years to develop a solid business resume. Beyond that, it is out of my control and I shouldn't worry about it. However, I will be attending at least one of the programs and I will definitely need to pay for it somehow. In my mind, this is a more pressing concern.
My other two applications don't require an essay or personal statement. But I think I will tweak the American essays a little bit and submit them as supplemental materials. It couldn't hurt, right?
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| from http://www.everybodygoto.com/ |
Of course, today is the deadline for my American University application if I want to be in the running for merit scholarships. I worked on my essays late into the night last night and made a few more tweaks this morning. (Thank you, Andrea Schwartz, for helping me with that.)Needless to say, this morning I feel pretty exhausted.
On the bright side, I have successfully submitted my application! Or, at least, the university has successfully taken the $100 application fee from my bank account. In talking with my sister, I realize that I'm not really that concerned about being accepted into the grad programs. Eeven with my average GMAT score and sad undergraduate GPA it didn't really cross my mind that I wouldn't be accepted. I am more concerned about how I would pay for the education overall.
Possibly this is how I compartmentalize things so I can handle the stress more easily. I don't have a say in whether or not I am accepted into the programs. I only know that I have written two amazing essays and worked very hard the last 6 years to develop a solid business resume. Beyond that, it is out of my control and I shouldn't worry about it. However, I will be attending at least one of the programs and I will definitely need to pay for it somehow. In my mind, this is a more pressing concern.
My other two applications don't require an essay or personal statement. But I think I will tweak the American essays a little bit and submit them as supplemental materials. It couldn't hurt, right?
B-School: Personal Statement - Draft#3 Final
Man's yesterday may ne'er be like his morrow;
Nought may endure but Mutablilty.
- From Mutability by Percy Bysshe Shelley
From the very first visit I made to the Library of Congress I knew that I wanted to work for there. The historical, political, and cultural significance contained in those buildings is inspiring and every minute detail of the Jefferson Building contains a symbol reflecting our national heritage or homage to other cultures that influenced our Founding Fathers. There are many people in this world who, from a young age, know exactly what they want to do with the rest of their lives and some of them are even fortunate enough to attain those aspirations. For the rest of us, however, our lives tend to be a series of compromises which slow our individual growth and interfere with our professional journey. We can choose to either let these unplanned events defeat us and take over our lives, or we can use the challenges as a springboard to attaining our goals and dreams.
I was the first person in my family to even consider going to college and, growing up, I was always told I would have to win scholarships. Indeed, I worked diligently in high school and received a scholarship from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. Unfortunately, I still had to work a full time job while attending classes to cover the remaining costs but it helped me develop exceptional time management skills. My parents were unable to advise me when it came to applications, financial aid, college courses, or even selecting a major. I learned to be self reliant in wading through all the information and bold in seeking out counsel from advisers or professors. I know that everything I have accomplished has come from my own perseverance.
When I was a sophomore in college, my mother's health became a serious cause for concern and the responsibility of her care fell to me. I spent most of that year attending classes, visiting her in the hospital, and working full eight hour shifts at my job. All of my careful planning and effort to go to college seemed as though it would come to naught as I struggled to maintain my grade point average while dealing with these outside problems. Taking a year off from school was one of the hardest choices I've ever had to make. I wanted to pursue my own dreams but could not deny the help my family needed and I knew that my divided attention would cause both to suffer. In time, my mother’s physical health improved and I felt I could return to school. I was determined to complete my education, even though my mother’s ill health had set my personal timeline back a few years.
Upon graduating from UMBC, I found it difficult to get a job with the Federal Government, let alone in my field of study. The economy was slowing down and, without an advanced degree, my future at the Library of Congress was in doubt. I had envisioned a job in Editing, Substitute Teaching, or the Library Sciences, but my first job offer came from the Accounting Department of a custom home builder. It seemed to be the very opposite of my dream job and I was surprised to discover how the analytical skills I developed as an undergraduate dovetailed with the skills I acquired working in Accounting. When that company folded during the housing crisis, I had several months to re-evaluate my professional path and decided that, with my work experience, it was still possible for me to aim for an accounting position at the Library of Congress though not the one originally envisioned.
During the years I was pursuing my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, it seemed that my life was nothing but compromises – for my family, my full-time job, and my budget. My personal goal of a career with the Library of Congress was pushed further and further away until it seemed almost unattainable. However, life is about change and growing from those changes. Without these challenges we would not have the opportunity to push our individual boundaries and learn all that we are capable of achieving. My life has not taken the path I thought it would, but it has taught me that I have the discipline to make my studies a priority, the strength to make difficult life decisions, and the resilience to accept changes without losing my focus.
Nought may endure but Mutablilty.
- From Mutability by Percy Bysshe Shelley
From the very first visit I made to the Library of Congress I knew that I wanted to work for there. The historical, political, and cultural significance contained in those buildings is inspiring and every minute detail of the Jefferson Building contains a symbol reflecting our national heritage or homage to other cultures that influenced our Founding Fathers. There are many people in this world who, from a young age, know exactly what they want to do with the rest of their lives and some of them are even fortunate enough to attain those aspirations. For the rest of us, however, our lives tend to be a series of compromises which slow our individual growth and interfere with our professional journey. We can choose to either let these unplanned events defeat us and take over our lives, or we can use the challenges as a springboard to attaining our goals and dreams.
I was the first person in my family to even consider going to college and, growing up, I was always told I would have to win scholarships. Indeed, I worked diligently in high school and received a scholarship from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. Unfortunately, I still had to work a full time job while attending classes to cover the remaining costs but it helped me develop exceptional time management skills. My parents were unable to advise me when it came to applications, financial aid, college courses, or even selecting a major. I learned to be self reliant in wading through all the information and bold in seeking out counsel from advisers or professors. I know that everything I have accomplished has come from my own perseverance.
When I was a sophomore in college, my mother's health became a serious cause for concern and the responsibility of her care fell to me. I spent most of that year attending classes, visiting her in the hospital, and working full eight hour shifts at my job. All of my careful planning and effort to go to college seemed as though it would come to naught as I struggled to maintain my grade point average while dealing with these outside problems. Taking a year off from school was one of the hardest choices I've ever had to make. I wanted to pursue my own dreams but could not deny the help my family needed and I knew that my divided attention would cause both to suffer. In time, my mother’s physical health improved and I felt I could return to school. I was determined to complete my education, even though my mother’s ill health had set my personal timeline back a few years.
Upon graduating from UMBC, I found it difficult to get a job with the Federal Government, let alone in my field of study. The economy was slowing down and, without an advanced degree, my future at the Library of Congress was in doubt. I had envisioned a job in Editing, Substitute Teaching, or the Library Sciences, but my first job offer came from the Accounting Department of a custom home builder. It seemed to be the very opposite of my dream job and I was surprised to discover how the analytical skills I developed as an undergraduate dovetailed with the skills I acquired working in Accounting. When that company folded during the housing crisis, I had several months to re-evaluate my professional path and decided that, with my work experience, it was still possible for me to aim for an accounting position at the Library of Congress though not the one originally envisioned.
During the years I was pursuing my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, it seemed that my life was nothing but compromises – for my family, my full-time job, and my budget. My personal goal of a career with the Library of Congress was pushed further and further away until it seemed almost unattainable. However, life is about change and growing from those changes. Without these challenges we would not have the opportunity to push our individual boundaries and learn all that we are capable of achieving. My life has not taken the path I thought it would, but it has taught me that I have the discipline to make my studies a priority, the strength to make difficult life decisions, and the resilience to accept changes without losing my focus.
B-School: Goal Essay Draft#3 - Final
It may seem that my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature is in direct contrast to my pursuit of a Masters of Science in Accounting; however, there are common elements that unite the two disciplines and make one beneficial to the other. The skills I developed as an undergraduate includes the ability to analyze data, draw conclusions from those details, and communicate my findings to a larger audience, all of which are important building blocks for a career in Business and crucial for one in Accounting. However, in order to continue to grow as a professional as well as an individual, one must be open to new experiences and widen his or her skill set. The program offered by American University will allow me to further my knowledge of GAAP and its function within Business and, in turn, I will be able to share my first-hand business experiences with a classroom of my peers.
The study of English Literature involves the development of analytical and communicative skills which are vital to a career in Accounting. Hours in the library looking for the best evidence to support my thesis amidst scores of academic writing has taught me patience and perseverance. Poring over lines of poetry, evaluating the meter of the lines and the different connotations of a particular word in order to unlock a deeper meaning teaches one that the details are just as important as the bigger picture. I find myself drawing on these same lessons as I scour spreadsheets and inventory data in my current position as a Materials Assistant. The time involved in unraveling a problem in our accounting records is akin to following the trail of footnotes in literary essays. Because of my training in literature, I notice patterns in data that others take for granted and I am able to draw conclusions from our records that would have gone unnoticed by the typical accounting clerk. In addition, my communication of my findings to other departments aids in efficient problem resolution. However, the skills I have acquired as an undergraduate, and refined in the accounting field, are only the cornerstone to the educational foundation I need to become successful as a CPA.
The Masters of Science in Accounting program offered by American University will allow me to learn proper procedures and processes that can not only be implemented in my day to day job, but also increase my contribution to society. As human beings, we do not exist in a vacuum and the things we learn through our experiences are, in turn, passed on to others for the enrichment of their lives – so it will be with my time at your University. With six years in the accounting field, I will be able to provide real world experience from small businesses like Dale Thompson Builders, to large corporations like Hallmark, to government contractors like Safenet. In addition, my current employer is planning to go public in the near future and I will be able to provide firsthand knowledge of that process to classroom discussions. My background and skill set will provide valued insights into our learning material that would have been overlooked by the more pragmatic students; I will contribute to a well-rounded education for my peers.
I would ultimately like to secure a managerial position in the financial offices at the Library of Congress with the technical knowledge of Accounting I will gain from studying at your institution, my current knowledge of government accounting practices, and my appreciation for literature. Simply visiting the Jefferson Building, in Washington, DC, is enough to inspire me and help me feel connected to a larger community that transcends the boundaries of language, religion, and government; it is a cultural and political bastion of knowledge. Washington, D.C. is the beautiful combination of so many cultures and educational backgrounds and it has always been a dream of mine to work and live there. Working at the Library of Congress, I would be a part of preserving our culture, our history, and our knowledge for future generations; those generations will be responsible for guiding our nation as we find our place in the larger world economy.
My pursuit of an advanced degree in Accounting stems from the desire to label and organize our world into easily digested pieces of information, but I can also recognize how those pieces fit together to create an intricate mosaic that represents an entire community. In my appreciation of this harmony, I defy the very labels society would use to classify me. I am neither solely a creative person nor am I simply a mathematical one. I am the blending of two cultures for a well rounded future.
The study of English Literature involves the development of analytical and communicative skills which are vital to a career in Accounting. Hours in the library looking for the best evidence to support my thesis amidst scores of academic writing has taught me patience and perseverance. Poring over lines of poetry, evaluating the meter of the lines and the different connotations of a particular word in order to unlock a deeper meaning teaches one that the details are just as important as the bigger picture. I find myself drawing on these same lessons as I scour spreadsheets and inventory data in my current position as a Materials Assistant. The time involved in unraveling a problem in our accounting records is akin to following the trail of footnotes in literary essays. Because of my training in literature, I notice patterns in data that others take for granted and I am able to draw conclusions from our records that would have gone unnoticed by the typical accounting clerk. In addition, my communication of my findings to other departments aids in efficient problem resolution. However, the skills I have acquired as an undergraduate, and refined in the accounting field, are only the cornerstone to the educational foundation I need to become successful as a CPA.
The Masters of Science in Accounting program offered by American University will allow me to learn proper procedures and processes that can not only be implemented in my day to day job, but also increase my contribution to society. As human beings, we do not exist in a vacuum and the things we learn through our experiences are, in turn, passed on to others for the enrichment of their lives – so it will be with my time at your University. With six years in the accounting field, I will be able to provide real world experience from small businesses like Dale Thompson Builders, to large corporations like Hallmark, to government contractors like Safenet. In addition, my current employer is planning to go public in the near future and I will be able to provide firsthand knowledge of that process to classroom discussions. My background and skill set will provide valued insights into our learning material that would have been overlooked by the more pragmatic students; I will contribute to a well-rounded education for my peers.
I would ultimately like to secure a managerial position in the financial offices at the Library of Congress with the technical knowledge of Accounting I will gain from studying at your institution, my current knowledge of government accounting practices, and my appreciation for literature. Simply visiting the Jefferson Building, in Washington, DC, is enough to inspire me and help me feel connected to a larger community that transcends the boundaries of language, religion, and government; it is a cultural and political bastion of knowledge. Washington, D.C. is the beautiful combination of so many cultures and educational backgrounds and it has always been a dream of mine to work and live there. Working at the Library of Congress, I would be a part of preserving our culture, our history, and our knowledge for future generations; those generations will be responsible for guiding our nation as we find our place in the larger world economy.
My pursuit of an advanced degree in Accounting stems from the desire to label and organize our world into easily digested pieces of information, but I can also recognize how those pieces fit together to create an intricate mosaic that represents an entire community. In my appreciation of this harmony, I defy the very labels society would use to classify me. I am neither solely a creative person nor am I simply a mathematical one. I am the blending of two cultures for a well rounded future.
B-School Application: Goal Essay Draft#2 (no Flavor)
898 Words
It may seem that my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature is in direct contrast to my pursuit of a Masters of Science in Accounting, however, there are common elements that unite the two disciplines and make one beneficial to the other. The skills I developed as an undergrad includes the ability to analyze data, draw conclusions from those details, and communicate my findings to a larger audience; all of which are important building blocks for a career in Business and crucial for one in Accounting. However, in order to continue to grow as a professional as well as an individual, one must be open to new experiences and widen his or her skill set. The program offered byAmerican University
The study of English Literature involves the development of analytical and communicative skills which are vital to a career in Accounting. Hours in the library looking for the best evidence to support my thesis amidst scores of academic writing has taught me patience and perseverance. Pouring over lines of poetry, evaluating the meter of the lines and the different connotations of a particular word in order to unlock a deeper meaning teaches one that the details are just as important as the bigger picture. I find myself drawing on these same lessons as I scour spreadsheets and inventory data in my current position as a Materials Assistant. The time involved in unraveling a problem in our accounting records is akin to following the trail of footnotes in literary essays. My ability to recognize the importance the small transactions play in the larger financial picture has allowed me to become a valued member of my team. Because of my training in literature, I notice patterns in data that others take for granted and am able to draw conclusions from our records that would have gone unnoticed by the typical accounting clerk. In addition, my communication of my findings to other departments aids in efficient problem resolution. However, the skills I have acquired in undergrad, and refined in the accounting field, are only the cornerstone to the educational foundation I need to become successful as a CPA.
The Masters of Science in Accounting program offered by American University will allow me to learn proper procedures and processes that can not only be implemented in my day to day job, but increase my contribution to society. With six years in the accounting field, I will be able to provide real world experience from small businesses, large corporations, and government contractors to the classroom discussions. In addition, my current employer is planning to go public in the near future and I will be able to provide first hand knowledge of that process as we prepare for our IPO. Most importantly, I will be able to provide a different perspective for my fellow students with only an accounting or mathematical background. My background in literary analysis and creative writing will provide valued insights into our learning material that would have been overlooked by the more pragmatic students; I will contribute to a well-rounded education for my peers. As human beings, we do not exist in a vacuum and the things we learn through our experiences are, in turn, passed on to others for the enrichment of their lives. So it will be with my time at the University.
With the technical knowledge of Accounting I will gain from studying at at your institution, my current knowledge of government accounting practices, and my appreciation for literature, I would ultimately like to secure a managerial position in the financial offices at the Library of Congress. Simply visiting the Jefferson Building, in Washington, DC, is enough to inspire me and help me feel connected to a larger community that transcends the boundaries of language, religion, and governments; it is a cultural and political bastion of knowledge. Washington, D.C., itself, is the beautiful combination of so many cultures and educational backgrounds and it has always been a dream of mine to work and live there. Being a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and having work experience in Accounting, I cannot think of a better environment for these two disciplines to co-exist. Any work that would be performed at the Library of Congress, from the janitorial staff to the Librarian of Congress appointed by the President, is part of preserving our culture, our history, and our knowledge for future generations. And those generations will be responsible for guiding our nation as we find our place in the larger world economy.
Human beings have a drive and ambition to make sense out of the chaos that surrounds them; to understand their place in the world as a whole. My pursuit of an advanced degree in Accounting stems from that same desire to label and organize our world into easily digested pieces of information, but I can also recognize how those pieces fit together to create an intricate mosaic that represents an entire community. In my appreciation for this harmony, I defy the very labels society would use to classify me. I am neither solely a creative person nor am I simply a calculating one. I am the blending of two cultures for a well rounded future.
It may seem that my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature is in direct contrast to my pursuit of a Masters of Science in Accounting, however, there are common elements that unite the two disciplines and make one beneficial to the other. The skills I developed as an undergrad includes the ability to analyze data, draw conclusions from those details, and communicate my findings to a larger audience; all of which are important building blocks for a career in Business and crucial for one in Accounting. However, in order to continue to grow as a professional as well as an individual, one must be open to new experiences and widen his or her skill set. The program offered by
The study of English Literature involves the development of analytical and communicative skills which are vital to a career in Accounting. Hours in the library looking for the best evidence to support my thesis amidst scores of academic writing has taught me patience and perseverance. Pouring over lines of poetry, evaluating the meter of the lines and the different connotations of a particular word in order to unlock a deeper meaning teaches one that the details are just as important as the bigger picture. I find myself drawing on these same lessons as I scour spreadsheets and inventory data in my current position as a Materials Assistant. The time involved in unraveling a problem in our accounting records is akin to following the trail of footnotes in literary essays. My ability to recognize the importance the small transactions play in the larger financial picture has allowed me to become a valued member of my team. Because of my training in literature, I notice patterns in data that others take for granted and am able to draw conclusions from our records that would have gone unnoticed by the typical accounting clerk. In addition, my communication of my findings to other departments aids in efficient problem resolution. However, the skills I have acquired in undergrad, and refined in the accounting field, are only the cornerstone to the educational foundation I need to become successful as a CPA.
The Masters of Science in Accounting program offered by American University will allow me to learn proper procedures and processes that can not only be implemented in my day to day job, but increase my contribution to society. With six years in the accounting field, I will be able to provide real world experience from small businesses, large corporations, and government contractors to the classroom discussions. In addition, my current employer is planning to go public in the near future and I will be able to provide first hand knowledge of that process as we prepare for our IPO. Most importantly, I will be able to provide a different perspective for my fellow students with only an accounting or mathematical background. My background in literary analysis and creative writing will provide valued insights into our learning material that would have been overlooked by the more pragmatic students; I will contribute to a well-rounded education for my peers. As human beings, we do not exist in a vacuum and the things we learn through our experiences are, in turn, passed on to others for the enrichment of their lives. So it will be with my time at the University.
With the technical knowledge of Accounting I will gain from studying at at your institution, my current knowledge of government accounting practices, and my appreciation for literature, I would ultimately like to secure a managerial position in the financial offices at the Library of Congress. Simply visiting the Jefferson Building, in Washington, DC, is enough to inspire me and help me feel connected to a larger community that transcends the boundaries of language, religion, and governments; it is a cultural and political bastion of knowledge. Washington, D.C., itself, is the beautiful combination of so many cultures and educational backgrounds and it has always been a dream of mine to work and live there. Being a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and having work experience in Accounting, I cannot think of a better environment for these two disciplines to co-exist. Any work that would be performed at the Library of Congress, from the janitorial staff to the Librarian of Congress appointed by the President, is part of preserving our culture, our history, and our knowledge for future generations. And those generations will be responsible for guiding our nation as we find our place in the larger world economy.
Human beings have a drive and ambition to make sense out of the chaos that surrounds them; to understand their place in the world as a whole. My pursuit of an advanced degree in Accounting stems from that same desire to label and organize our world into easily digested pieces of information, but I can also recognize how those pieces fit together to create an intricate mosaic that represents an entire community. In my appreciation for this harmony, I defy the very labels society would use to classify me. I am neither solely a creative person nor am I simply a calculating one. I am the blending of two cultures for a well rounded future.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Taxes
I am starting to prepare my 2011 tax returns. It's important for the filing of the FAFSA I am going to do, though I am not 100% sure I need to do that for graduate school - must research and find out. So far everything is coming in as it should, I've gotten my day job W-2 and the 1098-E's for my student loans. I even received a 1098-T for the $400 or so dollars I paid for my Accounting I class this summer, which must be something new because I don't remember getting one when I attended undergrad over six years ago. I know I had the cash out of my DTB IRA, so that's an additional $6K I have not yet accounted for in my income. I'm not sure what form I need for that though, so there is a lot of information I need to collect before finalizing anything.
Right now, H & R Block is showing I will get $900 back from federal and $4000 from State. I realize these are not legitimate numbers, as I said I cashed out an IRA this year, and I'm really just hoping to break even. I contributed more to my 401(k) and had an additional $50 per paycheck withheld for state taxes to compensate for both the IRA cash out and my second job. So the estimates are far from realistic at this point, BUT wouldn't it be nice if they were?
That large of a return would pay off more than just the Christmas debt I saddled myself with this past holiday. It would give me extra for school, or vacations, or to put away for Christmas this year. Is this what homeowners feel like? I know they get a larger return than I normally do because of the property values and mortgage paid, etc. But of course that has to go back into upkeep of the house and property taxes. Could I possibly stop having an additional $50 withheld from my paycheck every two weeks? That would bring at least an additional $100 into my budget every month. I will have tuition payments this year. Perhaps I could rely on the regular withholding again.
It's just the thought of having to pay the government money at the end of the year freaks me out. It's not that I don't want to pay taxes at all or that I think they're too high, etc. It's just that I'd rather pay too much and have the government act as a sort of savings account than have to keep estimating throughout the year to make sure I don't have to pay when I file. The saving of money has never been easy for me, so owing the government would not be easy on my finances. It's the intense pressure of owing money to someone or some organization that causes me to freak out.
Right now, H & R Block is showing I will get $900 back from federal and $4000 from State. I realize these are not legitimate numbers, as I said I cashed out an IRA this year, and I'm really just hoping to break even. I contributed more to my 401(k) and had an additional $50 per paycheck withheld for state taxes to compensate for both the IRA cash out and my second job. So the estimates are far from realistic at this point, BUT wouldn't it be nice if they were?
That large of a return would pay off more than just the Christmas debt I saddled myself with this past holiday. It would give me extra for school, or vacations, or to put away for Christmas this year. Is this what homeowners feel like? I know they get a larger return than I normally do because of the property values and mortgage paid, etc. But of course that has to go back into upkeep of the house and property taxes. Could I possibly stop having an additional $50 withheld from my paycheck every two weeks? That would bring at least an additional $100 into my budget every month. I will have tuition payments this year. Perhaps I could rely on the regular withholding again.
It's just the thought of having to pay the government money at the end of the year freaks me out. It's not that I don't want to pay taxes at all or that I think they're too high, etc. It's just that I'd rather pay too much and have the government act as a sort of savings account than have to keep estimating throughout the year to make sure I don't have to pay when I file. The saving of money has never been easy for me, so owing the government would not be easy on my finances. It's the intense pressure of owing money to someone or some organization that causes me to freak out.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
B-School Prep: Quizno's Article on NPR
On the ride into work today I heard the following: Quizno's NPR Article.
It really made me think about the degree I am attempting to pursue as it involved the flow of business. An interesting perspective on franchises and corporate offices, too. I haven't really thought about how Hallmark and my store interact on the financial side of things. My focus is limited to the monthly inspections we get from the corporate office to make sure we're maintaining the Hallmark Core Values.
There are some materials/merchandise we must purchase directly from Hallmark. The cards are the obvious example and honoring the gold crown coupons is similar to Quizno's buy one get one free deal. (Because the coupons are only allowed to be used on Hallmark merchandise and we have to buy that directly from the corporation.) Though we are reimbursed for the cost of the items sold so it's not like we're out that money like the Quizno's franchises. We just don't make a profit from the sale of those items, so it's a loss of potential income I suppose.
I kind of feel like an apprentice watch maker on his first day. There are these inner workings that I have taken for granted my entire life and learning some of the basics has widened my perspective of the world. All this from just one Accounting I class, imagine what I could do with an entire Masters Degree!
It really made me think about the degree I am attempting to pursue as it involved the flow of business. An interesting perspective on franchises and corporate offices, too. I haven't really thought about how Hallmark and my store interact on the financial side of things. My focus is limited to the monthly inspections we get from the corporate office to make sure we're maintaining the Hallmark Core Values.
There are some materials/merchandise we must purchase directly from Hallmark. The cards are the obvious example and honoring the gold crown coupons is similar to Quizno's buy one get one free deal. (Because the coupons are only allowed to be used on Hallmark merchandise and we have to buy that directly from the corporation.) Though we are reimbursed for the cost of the items sold so it's not like we're out that money like the Quizno's franchises. We just don't make a profit from the sale of those items, so it's a loss of potential income I suppose.
I kind of feel like an apprentice watch maker on his first day. There are these inner workings that I have taken for granted my entire life and learning some of the basics has widened my perspective of the world. All this from just one Accounting I class, imagine what I could do with an entire Masters Degree!
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
B-School Applications: Resume
I would have to say that this portion of the Business School application is proving most challenging. I know that if one is applying for a job one should keep the resume to one page, but is that also true for Business School? What exactly should I highlight on this resume since I'm not applying for a job?
I have seen more than one website that clearly states the Business School Application does not adhere to the same rules one would use for a job-seeking resume. I have also seen a number of testimonials from those reading applications saying they look at the resume first so students should spend more time and effort crafting it.
I feel that I have a solid Accounting Resume and would be extremely confident if I were applying for an accounting job. But Accounting school is way more intimidating.
I have seen more than one website that clearly states the Business School Application does not adhere to the same rules one would use for a job-seeking resume. I have also seen a number of testimonials from those reading applications saying they look at the resume first so students should spend more time and effort crafting it.
I feel that I have a solid Accounting Resume and would be extremely confident if I were applying for an accounting job. But Accounting school is way more intimidating.
Monday, January 16, 2012
A Crossroads
This weekend, I had one of the Dads' bar friends ask me to submit my resumé to him. He works for the government, specifically Health and Human Services. He overheard me talking to his wife about my grad school application process and asked Dad a lot of questions about me at the next gathering. The job he specifically has in mind: Grant Writing. I said that I would submit my resumé and thanked him for thinking of me. It's difficult to really talk about all the thoughts that run through one's head when someone asks for your resumé out of the blue like that. So it's always best to just say thank you and I will.
Of course, now I am faced with all the crippling thoughts that come with contemplating the future and choices that must be made. To begin with, I have already started the wheels in motion for an advanced degree in Accounting. Five years ago, I would have been jumping up and down at the prospect of a job in Grant Writing. Now I am a little more cautious as I don't know what this means for the plans I have started to lay down, nor do I want to dismiss an excellent opportunity without really considering all the options. But the bigger question is what do I really want to be doing five years from now?
I know from the class I took this summer that I am actually quite good at accounting and I do get a measure of satisfaction knowing I am not just a "words" person. Learning accounting would be tied up with the building blocks of business management and that's always useful knowledge. But then getting in with a government job is difficult and if I am to attain my dream of working at the Library of Congress, whether as Librarian or Accountant, this would be a useful step. Once in the government I would have the ability to move from job to job without losing years of service. Unlike the private sector where a new start with a new company means starting over again, unless other terms are negotiated.
But the opportunity for advancement can be greater in the private sector. It's like picking investments for one's 401(k); do you go with high risk since you have time before retirement or do you go slow and steady? One could have greater earning potential if the markets are in your favor, but you could also lose everything and not have enough to retire. The same is true for the low risk investments, too, but it tends to be more stable.
I must not get ahead of myself. Submitting a resumé does not mean one will get a job or even a job offer. I submitted enough of them when I was unemployed to know that better than anyone. But when the friend of a family member makes a point to ask, the likelihood that one will have to accept or decline something greatly increases. And, of course, the part that is bothering me is that someone somewhere will have to be disappointed.
Of course, now I am faced with all the crippling thoughts that come with contemplating the future and choices that must be made. To begin with, I have already started the wheels in motion for an advanced degree in Accounting. Five years ago, I would have been jumping up and down at the prospect of a job in Grant Writing. Now I am a little more cautious as I don't know what this means for the plans I have started to lay down, nor do I want to dismiss an excellent opportunity without really considering all the options. But the bigger question is what do I really want to be doing five years from now?
I know from the class I took this summer that I am actually quite good at accounting and I do get a measure of satisfaction knowing I am not just a "words" person. Learning accounting would be tied up with the building blocks of business management and that's always useful knowledge. But then getting in with a government job is difficult and if I am to attain my dream of working at the Library of Congress, whether as Librarian or Accountant, this would be a useful step. Once in the government I would have the ability to move from job to job without losing years of service. Unlike the private sector where a new start with a new company means starting over again, unless other terms are negotiated.
But the opportunity for advancement can be greater in the private sector. It's like picking investments for one's 401(k); do you go with high risk since you have time before retirement or do you go slow and steady? One could have greater earning potential if the markets are in your favor, but you could also lose everything and not have enough to retire. The same is true for the low risk investments, too, but it tends to be more stable.
I must not get ahead of myself. Submitting a resumé does not mean one will get a job or even a job offer. I submitted enough of them when I was unemployed to know that better than anyone. But when the friend of a family member makes a point to ask, the likelihood that one will have to accept or decline something greatly increases. And, of course, the part that is bothering me is that someone somewhere will have to be disappointed.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
B-School Essay : Short-Term/Long-Term Goals
American University requires a 500 word essay on my short-term and long-term goals and how that applies to my education at their university. Between this and the optional personal statement, it's my opportunity to show them something special about me. I've always been a writer, sometimes brilliant but most of the time adequate. I know that this is one of my strengths as a candidate and I need to focus on the best way to display that.
But I feel like I've never had training in this and I'm so rusty my fingers practically creaked when I started working on the rough drafts. The personal statement went pretty easily, maybe a little dramatic, but that's acceptable. It's the short-term/long-term goal essay that I think I've completely lost sight of the path. I could easily say "here's my short-term goal," "here's my long-term goal," now please let me give you my monies in exchange for goods and/or services. But I think the people reading the essays will be so bored with that format. I wanted to make it entertaining to read so that I would stick out in their minds, but I am afraid it may have gone the other way. I would definitely stick out in their minds, but not necessarily in a good way.
So I've sent off the rough drafts to people I trust for evaluation. I have a little over a month to send in the application for a merit scholarship consideration. I don't know that I would merit one, given my GPA and GMAT score, but I don't want to miss the opportunity for the possibility.
I'm excited about this. I'm also stressed about it, but it's got me thinking in terms I don't use every day. It is something different to stimulate my brain and, so far, it's pretty cool.
But I feel like I've never had training in this and I'm so rusty my fingers practically creaked when I started working on the rough drafts. The personal statement went pretty easily, maybe a little dramatic, but that's acceptable. It's the short-term/long-term goal essay that I think I've completely lost sight of the path. I could easily say "here's my short-term goal," "here's my long-term goal," now please let me give you my monies in exchange for goods and/or services. But I think the people reading the essays will be so bored with that format. I wanted to make it entertaining to read so that I would stick out in their minds, but I am afraid it may have gone the other way. I would definitely stick out in their minds, but not necessarily in a good way.
So I've sent off the rough drafts to people I trust for evaluation. I have a little over a month to send in the application for a merit scholarship consideration. I don't know that I would merit one, given my GPA and GMAT score, but I don't want to miss the opportunity for the possibility.
I'm excited about this. I'm also stressed about it, but it's got me thinking in terms I don't use every day. It is something different to stimulate my brain and, so far, it's pretty cool.
B-School Application: Goal Essay Rough Draft
One of the most influential novels I've ever read was A Passage to India, by E.M. Forster. It presents two divergent cultures, one that appreciates the artistry in everything and one that cannot see the forest for the trees, and the main question in Forster's novel is whether or not they can co-exist peacefully in India. I find that I identify more and more with this central theme as my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, from University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), is seemingly in direct contrast to my pursuit of a Masters of Science in Accounting. However, like the characters in Forster's novel, there is a common element that unites the two disciplines.
Just as Dr. Aziz and Professor Fielding have a mutual respect for one another that transcends the bonds of their individual cultures, the study of English Literature involves the development of one's analytical skills which are crucial to a career in Accounting. In my current position as a Materials Assistant at Safenet, Inc., my ability to recognize the importance the small details play in the larger financial reporting picture has allowed me to become a valued member of my team. Unencumbered by the rote technique used by my associates, I am able to draw conclusions from our accounting data that would otherwise have gone unnoticed and communicate them effectively to other departments. However, the skills I have acquired in the accounting field are only the cornerstone to the educational foundation I need to be successful within my company.
The Masters of Science in Accounting program offered by American University will allow me to learn proper procedures and processes that can be implemented in my day to day job. Thereby allowing me to become an important asset to my company. With six years in the accounting field, I will be able to provide real world experience from small business, large corporation, and goverment contractor perspectives. My current employee, Safenet, Inc. is also planning to go public in the near future, so I will be able to provide first hand knowledge of that process as we prepare ourselves for our IPO.
I could easily see my future at Safenet, Inc. as my current supervisor just received her twenty years of service award and she is the person I most want to emulate in my professional life. Ultimately, however, I would like to use my current knowledge of government accounting practices and the technical knowledge of Accounting I will gain from studying at American University to secure a managerial position in the financial offices at the Library of Congress. Being a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and having work experience in Accounting, I cannot think of a better environment for these two disciplines to co-exist. Washington, D.C. is the beautiful combination of so many cultures and educational backgrounds and it has always been a dream of mine to work and live there.
As discussed in E.M. Forster's novel, A Passage to India, human beings have a drive and ambition to tame the wilderness around them; to make sense out of chaos and have some measure of control. My pursuit of an advanced degree in Accounting stems from that desire to label and organize our world into easily digested pieces of information, but I can also recognize how those pieces fit together to create an intricate mosaic that represents an entire company.
Just as Dr. Aziz and Professor Fielding have a mutual respect for one another that transcends the bonds of their individual cultures, the study of English Literature involves the development of one's analytical skills which are crucial to a career in Accounting. In my current position as a Materials Assistant at Safenet, Inc., my ability to recognize the importance the small details play in the larger financial reporting picture has allowed me to become a valued member of my team. Unencumbered by the rote technique used by my associates, I am able to draw conclusions from our accounting data that would otherwise have gone unnoticed and communicate them effectively to other departments. However, the skills I have acquired in the accounting field are only the cornerstone to the educational foundation I need to be successful within my company.
The Masters of Science in Accounting program offered by American University will allow me to learn proper procedures and processes that can be implemented in my day to day job. Thereby allowing me to become an important asset to my company. With six years in the accounting field, I will be able to provide real world experience from small business, large corporation, and goverment contractor perspectives. My current employee, Safenet, Inc. is also planning to go public in the near future, so I will be able to provide first hand knowledge of that process as we prepare ourselves for our IPO.
I could easily see my future at Safenet, Inc. as my current supervisor just received her twenty years of service award and she is the person I most want to emulate in my professional life. Ultimately, however, I would like to use my current knowledge of government accounting practices and the technical knowledge of Accounting I will gain from studying at American University to secure a managerial position in the financial offices at the Library of Congress. Being a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and having work experience in Accounting, I cannot think of a better environment for these two disciplines to co-exist. Washington, D.C. is the beautiful combination of so many cultures and educational backgrounds and it has always been a dream of mine to work and live there.
As discussed in E.M. Forster's novel, A Passage to India, human beings have a drive and ambition to tame the wilderness around them; to make sense out of chaos and have some measure of control. My pursuit of an advanced degree in Accounting stems from that desire to label and organize our world into easily digested pieces of information, but I can also recognize how those pieces fit together to create an intricate mosaic that represents an entire company.
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