I realize in life we all experience ups and downs. When I started this program it was challenging balancing work and being a student again. After each semester, it was a little easier, I was able to balance both and I finally found my groove. I did not expect the obstacles I encountered while trying to negotiate my internship.
First, my supervisor would not approve me to take 16 hours off in order to complete an internship at Child and Welfare. At this point, I had an MSW supervisor agree to supervise my hours. I also had paperwork signed from HR approving internship. The school was understanding and did not want me to quit school or work and agreed to let me complete internship in my position. Well again, supervisors would not allow me to use my position for internship hours. On top of that Human Resources was involved and conducting meetings on my behalf. Through all this I started to get flack from both the Clinical Coordinator and Clinical Supervisor. These last couple of months have been real trying and I keep telling myself there is a reason for all of this. I still have not figured out the reason. In reflection it makes me glad to be learning about power and position. I hope to not ever have to tell someone "no I cant help them". This has been mind blowing and challenging and has made me question power and position in bureaucratic organizations.
I did apply and get a new job working for the STAR team in Mental Health. I am very excited for this new adventure what ever it may bring. In my interview I asked about internship and I still was given " we cant promise anything". On top of all this my financial aid has not gone through because I am not taking 5 units. I am at a loss and hope things start looking better. Heavy sigh.
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ReplyDeleteNikkie! Congratulations on landing the new job - I'm happy to hear that news! When I read over what's been going on for you, I have to say that I admire your perseverance (it helps me with my own challenges). The story of your supervisor at the old gig is perplexing. Obviously I don't have all of details or the full context, but it sure seems like something is/was up with that person given that you had support from HR and an MSW ready to supervise you for the internship. So again, I admire your tenacity and can only imagine that whatever the reason for the discord at the old place...has now led to what just might be a better situation where you can say more about writing your own ticket in life :)
ReplyDeleteI am so glad you're still in the program despite all the stupid challenges. What a trial. What a stack of lessons. Congratulations on your new position. I want to hear more about it. It does take a lot, as Jane Doe (I am guessing ST?) said. You are tenacious and using your Hawtmen spirit to persevere through challenges both obnoxious, silly and ridiculous. I am sorry about the financial aid, too. Ouch. I try to think about the fact that when I am done with this program, I will be able to make howevermuch more an hour so as to not drown in a pit of debt-despair. Suffice to say I have your back and I am sure I can speak for everyone else in the cohort that they do to. You have my #. Xo!
ReplyDeleteHey there Nikkie, wow...what a workout you have been through and your still going strong and keeping yourself afloat! Good job. We can never see in the moment, what the lessons are that need to be learned. I usually find mine in hindsight and then am so grateful to have walked through the pain-knowing I have come out the other side with new understanding about myself and the situation. There is so much to learn. I congratulate you on your new job, hang in there lady-the tough stuff is worth working through and you will shine for it!
ReplyDeleteThank you all so much for your support and cant wait to share with you all about my new journey.
ReplyDeleteWow, starting a new job right now sounds really challenging; but also the best option at this point. Best of luck. I think when theses challenges happen in our lives, it is humbling and does make us appreciate what we have. It can also help us to empathize with clients regarding situations they face with 'systems' and how emotionally draining it is and how powerless it can make us feel.
ReplyDeleteI know it was difficult for me to negotiate eight hours of time off from my position with my employer, and I know they will not allow any more than that. When I initially started the program, I told them the program was designed for people to keep their jobs and not cause work disruptions, so they were not happy about this surprise being sprung on them. I'm not sure it this was the case in your situation. I am barely keeping up with everything, and simultaneously feel like I am failing at it all.
Congratulations on the new job. That is great. Too bad that you have had to struggle with so many things up to this point. Hang in there. This will be worth it in the end. Sometimes it is hard to see how things can get better or to see past the obstacle. I am glad you are still with us.
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