putting it out there to the universe

[truepenny]

Dear Universe:

For a variety of reasons that do not need exploring at this juncture (but that you, being the universe, already know about), I am looking for a part-time job. This is a tricky proposition for me, because my intensive training in one particular, esoteric field means that I am both over- and under-qualified for almost every job in existence--except teaching English, which, ironically, is not a job I want. (Teaching is never a part-time job.) Also, historically, I have proven to be really tip-top at not getting jobs. I haven't successfully applied for a non-teaching job since I was in college, and that, dear universe, was quite some time ago. In fact, as of this morning, I can assure you that that particular hex is still going strong.

I know you're a busy universe, with lots more important things to do, but if you should happen to fling a job my way, I would be very grateful.

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,
Mole

---

NOTE TO THE INTERNETS: I am not--repeat not--looking for job-hunting advice. If you know about a specific job opening you think I should be aware of, I will be grateful for having it drawn to my attention, but otherwise, don't. Don't tell me about temp agencies, don't tell me about lying on my resume, none of it. I don't want to hear it. Your self-restraint in this matter is appreciated.

Comments

[mamculuna.livejournal.com]

You are so right that teaching is never part-time. I recently calculated that I make about $2.23 an hour for teaching two courses online. I don't *have* to spend that much time, but once you start dealing with the students and the material and the course set-up...

[redbird]

Can I safely assume that you are interested only in a part-time job in or near Madison, not half-days of telecommuting or long-distance freelance/contract work?

[truepenny.livejournal.com]

I am potentially interested in long-distance/telecommuting work.

[redbird]

I will keep my eyes and ears open.

[truepenny.livejournal.com]

Thank you!

[rchan.livejournal.com]

How about if we just want to wish you good luck? ^_^

[truepenny.livejournal.com]

Wishes of good luck are always appreciated. *g*

Good luck!

[(Anonymous)]

Oh, hon. I hope the universe turns it around for you. And good luck!

the grrly grrl

[kateelliott.livejournal.com]

Good luck. Courage.

[inizitu.livejournal.com]

Job hunting sucks like an airplane toilet. I know, because I'm doing it too. In MI.

Vibes and luck and also commiseration.

[pixel39.livejournal.com]

Freelance editing?

[torrilin.livejournal.com]

*sends iced tea and hopeful thoughts*

[cheloya.livejournal.com]

I don't know how much technical writing either floats or sinks your boat, but, well, Red Hat always needs more tech writing people. (Our tech writing department is in another castle, mind you, but I'm sure other companies are in the same boat.)

Other than that - good luck, and don't give up. I know full well how much job-hunting sucks.

[midnightsmagic.livejournal.com]

This is almost certainly one of those jobs you're horribly overqualified for, but I thought I'd mention it just in case. A woman I work near at the Wisconsin Historical Society is looking for someone to help out with Wisconsin newspapers part time. She is specifically looking for someone who is Not A Student (because turnover is so high with students), and microfilm experience is a big plus.

The job isn't posted anywhere because she's terrified of a deluge of applications, but if you're interested, I can ask her for more details tomorrow.

Heads up that the pay is really low though--less than $10/hr, unless Gail pays her assistants more than the rest of the library's part-time staff get paid.

[truepenny.livejournal.com]

Yes, please do! I don't care about being overqualified for jobs, but potential employers always look at me very dubiously. And I do have microfilm experience.

Job at WHS

[midnightsmagic.livejournal.com]

I spoke with Gail at WHS today, and she's still looking for someone. She needs someone 15-20 hours per week at the (ridiculously low) rate of $8/hr. The job mostly consists of collating newspapers and doing other organizational-type things with them to get the collection in order. If you still aren't deterred, you can send your resume/cover letter to her at Gail.GibsonRanallo@wisconsinhistory.org, or call her for more information at 264-6533.

[pameladean]

Ugh.

I wish you the very best of luck.

P.

[avocadovpx.livejournal.com]

I am suddenly very interested in the imaginary sitcom where you star as the best barista ever, and you give all of the wannabe writers who haunt the coffee shop the advice that instantly (and unrealistically) improves their novels.

John Scalzi guest stars.

Seriously, good luck in your job search!

[truepenny.livejournal.com]

Except for the part where I would be a terrible barista, I like your idea. *g*

[crookedfeet.livejournal.com]

Hi Sarah,
Didn't realize Nadine was logged in, but I messaged you on Facebook about a possible opening up there.
Lee Whiteside

[grass-angel.livejournal.com]

Have another chime of good luck from me. It sort of sounds as if you need the extra.

[hakumeiun.livejournal.com]

Would it be possible to copy your letter to the Universe, and issue it as a general memo to the Universe, the Fates, and any and all other destiny-controlling entities in the lower 48 states?
~Signed
A Student of Post War Japanese Women's Literature

[miss55.livejournal.com]

Looking for work is never fun, and it certainly takes time away from writing. Since I am caught in that particular crack, I will wish for the universe to grant you a sale of a book or a story that will allow you to keep on writing.

[cissa.livejournal.com]

Best of luck to you!