Pearls of Wisdom

Yesterday’s National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Northern Virginia Chapter Installation Ceremony solidified my community purpose. Though as always I was the youngest one in the group, this time it did not faze me because this event had meaning. I would join a broad collection of black female professionals advocating social change. All of a sudden, the conundrum of which chapter did I join after relocating dissipated. Right then, I was in the company of my sisters! At age twenty-nine I finally had the support to pursue my foundation work. This next decade I promised myself to found a scholarship program to help students afford books.; and, I was well on my way.

Confessions

When I dropped mathematical methods for economists, I realized that unlike previous circumstances, one class did not determine my future. Here I was still an economist in contention for GS-11 status and more importantly, I already had enough education to sustain me for a very long time. My BA from Hiram College equipped me with skills to become an economist. During these past two months, I saw my former classmates, in Washington working as economists. Their presences were proof-positive that a Hiram education was more than sufficient to do this work! These reminders enabled me relinquish any guilt about my decision. Furthermore, when CSU emailed me about its DC Alumni meeting, all of a sudden I realized that this decision was minor because here was a bigger goal: serving as a mentor. Mentoring had always been my top goal especially as I enter my thirties and this event offered me an opportunity to do just that. I remembered being twenty years old, doing this for free! These experiences made me the person that I am today. Coincidentally, I worked one block from 50 Years is Enough but a world of difference: now only was I being paid but my perspective changed. When I return to Cleveland, Ohio, I thought that keeping in touch was unimportant but I wasted lots of time not doing so. What I would recommend was to join industry associations to begin fomenting your relationships now so that you’d always have a network.

Becoming a mentor in my twenties is impressive because (at for me) I haven’t done anything major. Yes, I have earned two degrees by age twenty-five, completed one year at American University, have relocated from Cleveland to Washington, DC, survived on bad credit and now have good credit and received a pay-for-performance bonus; but, I haven’t done anything really big. However, inspiring anyone of these students would make my day!

Speaking of going back, I remember the vast amount of progress that I have made since arriving here. It is only now that I acknowledge how bad I want to become an economist. I moved here with two checking accounts in ChexSystems and horrible credit. Every apartment complex denied my application forcing me to find shelter on Craigslist. Now one year later, I have two checking and savings accounts and good credit. That’s an amazing feat to turn everything around and become successful!

The Morning After

A lot has transpired since my last posting. First and foremost, I've dropped mathematical methods for economists for health reasons. Now I can focus on resting and my apartment search which has hit a snag. It disappointed me immensely because I was number three on the list even though I had called the owner first! Oh well, it nothing pans out this week, I will submit my trip money and go to 1500 Massachusetts Avenue. At least I am close to work and I can walk to the DuPont metro and the N2 bus. However, I do have some stellar news regarding my job search. This morning I have completed four job offers and have faxed all of the information. Furthermore, tomorrow is my first GS-11 Economist interview and tonight I will revise my writing samples to ensure that they reflect my ambition. Like I gleefully told my career coach that come August 1st, I will not even be here if my boss does not come with a great counteroffer.

Overcoming my Fears

Even though the mathematical notation is Greek to me, I will overcome my fear by mastering it. I refuse to allow this to get in the way of acing this class. Therefore, this weekend, I will read and solve all chapter problems to ensure that I receive a high grade (Anything is better than a zero.) Furthermore, I have overcome my fear of not getting an apartment near college by calling real estate agencies. All of a sudden, five offers have materialized with three within my area. It looks like I will be able to return to Washington, DC by July!

Opportunity Journal Entry #8: Leave No Stone Unturned!

Meeting with the career coach has helped me better process and clarify my ideas regarding my job search. I have told her about receiving an interview with another agency but really want to stay here. The other agency offers loan forgiveness and tuition assistance which will truly help me; but, here I am already in the system where securing a ZP-III promotion is much easier than going else. During the conversation, I inform her about contacting the HR representative about the timetable because it is realistic that I can be in government on the fifth floor by August 1st. Immediately afterward, I travel to see her and inquire about the announcement’s timetable. She says that after it closes, the staff will review it for 10-15 days then email individuals who made certification (She says that I can view it electronically.). She has validated my earlier assumptions. Riding high and full of optimism, I return to my office in preparation for today’s meeting with the new associate director.

Unbeknownst to me, the BEA’s Regional Program Outreach Potential poster hanging on the wall offers an abundance of opportunity to expand my job search. I have written down every single organization. This represents a watershed moment because I never know that many regional economic organizations exist! When opportunity knocks, you better answer!

Opportunity Journal Entry #7: Full Steam Ahead

A lot has transpired since my last opportunity posting. This morning a potential employer called to schedule an interview which, of course, I obliged. The agency wanted some writing samples forwarded to them prior to the interview. I viewed this as a prime opportunity to use my Toastmaster skills to advance my career. If selected, my starting date will be late August to complete my estimates and take a vacation.

Of course, I debate leaving my current employer especially after applying for an internal position which would allow me to stay here while earning more money. Thankfully, the career coach returns tomorrow because I really need advice on this matter. First, I will email HR for a timetable to evaluate my options. I really prefer to stay here and receive my promotion. My boss even says that he'll evaluate my progress after the estimates then confer with his supervisor. However, that's too many chefs in the kitchen! Second, I will meet with the career caoch to hammer out the details. If I accept this position, my starting date will be late August to accommodate the state estimates and my vacation. Coming off insincere is the last thing I wish to project!

Rise Up!

In tribute to my beloved Cleveland Cavaliers reaching the NBA Finals, I will entitle this blog entry: Rise Up! :)

I will rise up and seek out every opportunity to live abundantly, realize all of my dreams, and have fun while doing it.

Unchained Melody

Last night's mathematics for economists lecture and quiz gave me a rude awakening that I had to study in order to excel at this class. Last week's ninety minute lectures spoiled me into thinking that this would be a cake course and I'd arrive home by 8pm. Yesterday's lecture comprised of basic calculus, especially the chain rule, and differentiation. Later this afternoon, I will read some the material so that I would not be further behind.

Seeking New Challenges

Ben Silverman’s promotion as co-chairmen of NBC Entertainment and the NBC Universal Television Studio, has inspired me to examine my current and future progress. He is 36 years old and by age 36, I will have graduated from Harvard’s Business Economics doctoral program and still be on the fast track to become this agency’s Chief Economist (I will also be married and a homeowner!). His ascension coupled with a friend's economics professorship challenges me to reassess my long-term goals. I can foresee myself as a tenured professor who is also a Fortune 500 CEO. Furthermore, I will have the first non-white firm to be included in the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA). This will happen because I will make it happen! Kevin Liles, current record president and author of the book entitled, Make It Happen!, has begun his music career as an unpaid Def Jam intern rising through the corporate ranks to become label president; and, one the label was acquired by Universal ascended to is presidency. I, too, remembered my days as a non-paid intern; and, it still amazes me that at the end of my twenties, I have fully realized my goal of becoming an Economist, but I have so much more inside of me to explore and offer. I refuse to be content (Working at a top statistical agency, is a badge of honor, however, I define my life and career.) because I know that I can do so much more.

The Impact of Positive Thinking

Making suggestions to the writer about helping eliminate poverty and providing positive alternatives to the youth, gives me a wonderful feeling because I’m now stepping into the mentor role. Mentioning Upward Bound, Gear Up, YMCA Black Achievers and America Reads recalls the importance the organizational staffs have had on me. When I return to Washington, DC, I will participate in these programs. This exchange coupled with reading Earl Graves Sr.’s June 2007 Black Enterprise editorial advocating that black businesses step up and provide high quality alternatives to the dearth of role models within the community (I am glad that he does not finger only the poor but also the rich!), has made me realize the amount of leadership and knowledge skills that I possess. This summer I will participate in both DC and Arlington Reads. I know that I possess the training and the talent to help people become more literate. Furthermore, I would love to teach GED preparation courses in addition to community colleges. After completing my UDC math courses, I will apply for an Upward Bound Science Math precalculus teaching position. Moreover, I can incorporate my SAS knowledge to create a computer science class that exposes children to new computing languages. Aha! This exercise has enabled me to positively channel my creative energies which result in change. All I have to do are focus on my work and devote thirty minutes daily towards learning. Improving my skills will help me improve my community.

Since founding my own college is my life’s goal, participating in educational programs and learning more about the grant process are imperative towards realizing this dream. Even attending the Ingenuity Festival and traveling to Brazil will deplete my vacation hours, I will enroll in the DC Foundation Center’s one-day grant writing seminar to acquire the writing abilities necessary to finance this endeavor. It is important to obtain as much experience as possible to ensure that I know what I am doing. It amazes me the impact of one little email has had on today’s critical thinking!

The Art of Dealmaking

Yesterday after exiting the disappointing DuPont Circle opening house (the apartment was half the size of my current one), I struck up a conversation with a fellow AU undergrad student about apartment hunting. I told him about my success calling real estate companies and that he should try this and next week to obtain July and August. Also, I told him about my Friendship Heights and Arlington, VA basement apartments to which he responded that “those were some great deals.” Prior to his remark, I never saw myself as a deal maker. However, I managed to pull off what many in the metro DC area could not: getting the most space for my buck! And, if I could blindly seal deals then think how effectively I would be now with my eyes and ears wide open!

I will call more firms to receive insider information for the July/August vacancies. In addition, I delay purchasing my trip until June 5th, when I have a ballpark figure and pulled my credit score. By the time I settle in to my new diggs, I will have closed my biggest deal ever: a basement apartment with no less than 900 sq. ft!

Clearing the Benchmark

Yesterday’s meeting with my boss helped me set a benchmark for achieving success. Thus it was important to finish the first estimate by Friday. I needed to send a message that I would be a ZP-III Economist! This motivated me to excel on my work!

During my Toastmasters meeting, I met my coworker's husband who graduated with his economics doctorate which was truly inspiring (What was less inspiring was that very same coworker trying to correct me when I mentioned that he would receive GS-12 ranking. She remarked that he would command more than that [Not so with him being straight out of grad school; but, I digressed.]). Every morning I envisioned myself earning my doctorate working as the Chief Economist or starting my own business en route toward becoming the first black woman of my wholly owned Fortune 500 firm!

Since most top-tier doctoral schools have daytime curricula, I will build my clientele to sustain myself. Entrepreneurship pushes me to the next level. Upon graduation, my company will have a market capitalization of over $2 million.

Liberation

In between eating lunch at my desk and pondering tomorrow's apartment viewing, I realized that before I signed my life (well, one year of my life) away to a landlord, I must conduct due diligence by revisiting my old stomping grounds where I arrived one year ago. Boarding the red line, I arrived in Friendship Heights to write down some apartment names and inquire about apartment listings. Both secretaries helped me immeasurably. During the first, I thought about how much my financial position had changed since last year and how grateful I was to have the money and the credit to rent. Leaving both rental offices, embarking on my return to work, little did I know walking down Wisconsin Avenue doodling about achieving financial liberty, that the school would accept my credits! Right after exiting the Farragut North red line subway station from apartment hunting, I called the head of the math department who informed me that UDC accepts my USDA calculus I class! This is great because now I will retake not only calculus I but take calculus II. This presents another opportunity to excel because my goal is to complete both classes and land into calculus III this fall. However, I wills till remain diligent especially since I haven’t taken a class at UDC and therefore do not know the teaching style; yet, I am hopeful that I will excel wherever I am placed!

After processing all of this information, I asked my boss about the status of my promotion to which he replied that he hadn’t spoken to his superior yet; but, that he would. Furthermore, he declared that my performance on these estimates served as a great indicators as to whether or not I would receive one. Hmmm! Well, all righty then. At least I was working on them and asking questions because now I have something to shoot for; and, by the time I lay on the sunny beach on Brazil, I will know that my raise will be awaiting me! J

Opportunity Journal Entry #6: Taking Credit

When the landlady told me what the rent would be for next year (it was super affordable!), immediately I shifted into high gear. Earlier this morning, I checked UDC's 2006-2008 catalog for calculus II and it will be offered immediately after my AU classes. This discovery further motivates me to return back to Washington, DC. During my lunch break, I've traveled to the university's mathematics department to obtain additional information. The doctor has told me that my calculus course depends upon the course description. I ask for the fax number and when I return to the office, I've faxed this information; and, tomorrow I will fax my syllabus. In addition, I've checked the university's off-campus housing and viewed the real estate listings.

Financially, I've filed both online and telephone disputes to all three credit bureaus to clean up my credit. Even though the post office has raised stamps to 41 cents, I've still assembled my credit dispute letter package including a copy of my payoff letter. Talking to the representatives has helped me immensely because I've received my new confirmation numbers and timelines. All of this should be resolved by early June. Taking control of my finances have eliminated (sort of) the fear of not resigning my VA lease.

It is important to take advantage of all available opportunities abound because these will position me to harvest low-lying fruit!

Opportunity Journal Entry #5: Business Travel

Even though I have a massive headache on the left side of my brain (which is not because of the sun which is a nice 75 degrees), I can spot an opportunity when I see one. The table has the Annual Meeting brochure and since I am a member, I could pay the Meeting member fee of $750 (since I am both a member and an Economist I could ask my employer to do this!). Also I have until July 31st to pay the fee leaving me with enough time to decide what I want to do. This is big because the business Annual Conference in Orlando is the same week meaning that I must make a choice between school (the first conference is held on Monday and Tuesday) and work. I can visit blackboard for micro's syllabus to make my decision but if I decide to go to the NABE Meeting I will have to tell the other teacher.

Networking in my field and the Pacific Coast provide a lot of opportunities to grow and learn plus I like to travel and since I will be off Friday, September 7th it will allow me time to wind down and enjoy the sights before the conference. Earlier this morning during the meeting I dreamt about attending Harvard for my business economics Ph.D. (this carried over from my morning break walk) and how it along with working as a consultant would boost my career profile. I could envision myself working on the sixth floor (with an Ivy League, I am a virtual shoo-in but attitude still determines altitude.). Attending either conference would help me build a strong professional portfolio because I have taken the initiative to meet people and development the acumen to be successful in every environment.

Awake (I wrote this to get out of my lethargy)

Snap out of my doldrums
Be happy that I am freely breathing in the optimism
Able to capitalize upon any opportunity available to me

Break out the slumber
Awake my creativity
Spring to life
Nurture it through the growing stages
Mines sprouts out life a geyser
Flushing out with spurts of energy, imagination and passion
My creativity will envelope everything like a rainbow

Be

Be happy
Be wise
Be fair
Be kind
Be optimistic
Be aware
Be educated
Be alive!

Show Appreciation

What am I appreciative for?

The fact that I am healthy and able body
I can pursue all of my higher educational pursuit anywhere my ambition and grades will take me.
I can earn a decent wage in my major
To be literate and to use this skill to learn more about life.

Review of Russell Simmons' Do You

This book was inspiring by providing insight from someone who has been in the music business for 25 years. Every time he gave an example from moving to where the action was to clearing off your lenses to realize the abundance of available opportunity, it resonated with me. I wanted to become an economist so I moved from Cleveland to Washington, DC. I knew that continuing my education was important so I transferred from Cleveland State to American (I am in the process of trying to reduce my tuition costs because this fall the university wants $1,111 per credit hour. Yikes!). Also I sought out more challenges to improve myself because ultimately I was in charge of my life. I refuse to believe that there is a glass ceiling (well, concrete because I am a black woman) and that’s why I push the promotion so hard. My work will be rewarded or I go elsewhere. Furthermore, the story about Jinx was extremely heart warming. As former high school dropout, he has returned to earn his GED, and advocates education to everyone who crosses his path. You cannot help but root for him and his recovery from a gang shooting. I hope to hear from this artist soon.

There are some things, most importantly proclaiming himself to be a mogul when he sells all of his ventures. Equity, not money, makes one a mogul because it doesn’t matter if you have money when you have no ownership. Russell has sold Def Jam, Phat Farm, everything so he has essentially no equity. I’ve decided to modify his message since I will become the first black Fortune 500 CEO of a wholly owned company: never sell up to move up.

Motivated and Moving On Up

Today Bloomberg reports that Ursula Burns may succeed Anne Mulachy as the first black woman to head a Fortune 500 company! This is black history in the making because although there are several black male Fortune 500 CEOs, there are no black women. This historical news places me one step closer towards realizing my dream of becoming the first black female Fortune 500 CEO of a wholly owned company.

Since I am anticipating the new Black Enterprise BE 100s, I have decided to request investor and annual report information from last year's list and examine those companies, learn from their mistakes and fortify my own plan for success. I know that I can accomplish any feat!

The Friday After

After finishing two term papers, I declared that I would buy a steak from a high-end restaurant in downtown DC, a swanky place where the politicos hammer out deals; however, after seeing that it cost $20, I opted for the veal that cost $14. Omg! Even in victory, I was cheap! No, I digressed. I was financial astute!

During the lunch, I decided to forego preparing for the macro final exam because I needed down time to breathe after typing and revising 38 pages. Yikes!

The Best Line of Today is from Russell Simmons’ new book Do You: Please don’t tell me you quit your job, or you can’t get ahead at your job, because of a glass ceiling,” he writes, adding after an unprintable exclamation: “If you think there’s a glass ceiling holding you back, then you’re a slave.” Then he urges: “Shatter that glass, brush off the shards and get on with your vision.”

This is why I know that I will become the first black female Fortune 500 CEO because I refuse to allow anything to hold me back! I am a fighter and continue to put God first, I will be successful!

The Early Bird Chronicles: Entry 2

Having two papers due on the same day next week Thursday and the data management project deadlines breathing down my neck, I arrived early to work to type the SIS summaries. I managed to not only complete this task but also find three additional journal articles (one discussed norms!) and travel to AU to withdraw a book. Though I cannot buy some of the older books given time constraints (the shipping date is April 20 and the paper's due date is April 26), I am confident that I will still receive an A because I have revised my thesis statement. Now I can work on this week's summary and use my off day to revise and strengthen my SIS paper.

Also I resubmitted my economics proposal. My paper will focus on Brazil's Central Bank inflation targeting practices. I know that I can complete reading all of the papers using my off day because every week I had to read 200+ pages. So what's 20 per journal article? Later this afternoon I will start reading econ articles and summarized material to ensure that I get a head start.

Virginia Tech Massacre

The Virginia Tech killings got to me emotionally. I resided in Arlington and attended American so I took it personally though I did not anayone. I could not have comprehended it. Still don’t. What would make someone snap. Even worse than the gunman were the politicians jockeying for position on the gun control debate. At that hour did we really need that?

What is needed are prayers for the wounded and condolescences for the dead.

Aspire: Become the First Black Female Fortune 500 CEO of a Wholly-Owned Company

The Fortune 500 is out today and I will need to generate $4.4 billion to be number 491. Also 50 is the average age of a woman CEO so by age 50 I will have become the first black female Fortune 500 CEO. I am so excited because I have positioned myself to realize this ambitious goal. I possess the education, finances, insight, and tenacity to make it happen! I will neither be deterred nor denied of my rightful place in this world! Already by year's end, I will have written my own business plan, started my virtual assistant business, traveled to Brazil, strengthen my professional network, and cleaned up my finances to shore up the money to stay afloat for a 18 month period.

I know that I can accomplish this long-term objective!

Opportunity Journal Entry #4: You Never Know if You Don't Ask

Giving thanks: Prior to the CAAB seminar, I have mailed three thank you letters to Craig Jones, Lavern Chatnam and Marion Barnwell for accepting me into the fold! Regardless of what’s going on today, stopping to give thanks for the many blessings that I have received. So I am too blessed to be stressed!

Blog: Yesterday I was accepted into Johns Hopkins University's Applied Economics program as a provisional student. The school requires three courses then I could change my status to degree-seeking. Since I currently attend American, this status is okay especially since I intend on remaining here.

While peeking on the secretary’s desk (to see if she was there to gather a training justification), I saw one in her inbox which said JHU. Immediately I asked Rob about if funds were available (I told him that I did take a course. Honestly is the best policy.) He said to apply for the summer to see what happens and if money was available this fall then I could resubmit for that semester. This liberates my finances because now I can use my HSBC money towards my trip and relocation (though I am still entertaining taking statistics but that is another matter.) Furthermore, I called the training officer to locate the form on the intranet and during our conversation mentioned that no comparison was needed if my course was below a certain dollar amount (which it was!). Finally, after some kind of weird email exchange with a JHU financial aid secretary, I contacted my AU financial aid counselor who provided the consortium financial aid agreement releasing my funds to JHU.

All of these developments would have never materialized if I had not asked the director about summer aid. Now I have more options available to me simply because I overcame my indifference to taking more than one class and asked.

First 100 Days of 2007

The First 100 Days of 2007: Overcoming Fear

Today marks the 100th day of 2007 and I have accomplished a lot by overcoming my fears of rejection. I have paid off two creditors, applied to two graduate schools to reduce costs, and maximized my money by opening an online savings account.

By the Thursday, July 19th, 200th day of 2007, I will have accomplished the following:

Better credit
Ace my spring and summer graduate courses
Finalize my vacation
Improved my health
Have my new DC apartment

Not Sweating the Small Stuff

One of the creditors I paid off informed me that because my finance charge payment was received last week, I could not receive the payoff confirmation letter until May. This infuriated me because in February the representative told me that I did not owe any finance charges. I hoped that I did not deter my credit report.

My anger subsided somewhat while mailing my monthly payment, receive an updated credit report, and RSVP for a finance seminar. I will ask about DC Saves because I will align my savings goals with this organization.

While walking to the bank to open another account, a woman was asking for directions to the testing center. I told her the right way because I took the GRE test there. Immediately I remembered that God placed me in this woman's life to help her get to the next level because I wanted to leave earlier but had something else to do!

April Showers Bring May Flowers

April is financial literacy month and I will dedicate myself towards improving my finances. Today my counselor informed me that it received the extra money from the previous creditor and asked what I wanted to do with the money. Immediately, I instructed her to apply it to my current balance. This amount coupled with my monthly payment would accelerate my payoff.

More good news: I received an email from a college loan officer notifying that my credit dispute had been resolved and that only positive information would be on my report! This would assuredly boost my credit score.

The best news of today: My internet bank told me that I would earn 6% APY on all new money deposited into my savings account until April 30th. All the more reason to stash money there! By May 15th, I will have accumulated enough to pay for my summer class, relocation and vacation!

Opportunity Journal Entry #3: Appreciation

Today, Wednesday, April 4, 2007, marks the 39th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's assassination. All night I thought about King’s impact upon my life because though I was not alive during the Civil Rights Movement, I am benefiting from it. Without it I would not have been an economist or my education. While walking to JHU, I realized how Dr. King’s legacy enabled me to even consider applying to a white college. Prior to 1965, my only option would had been Howard University; but, now I have endless alternatives which I will take advantage of all of them!

Financial Spring Cleaning

These past two days, I have received financial confirmation from newspapers and commentators regarding my decision to start spring cleaning my finances. In today's Washington Post Michelle Singletary's column about spring cleaning, resonates with me because this Monday I pulled my credit report and was surprised by the abundance of wrong information on it. Immediately I wrote the three credit bureaus and filed electronic disputes. These corrections will boost my score and save me money! Also I am awaiting April when I can request my second payoff confirmation letter. The representative mentioned that the bank had to hold the money for thirty days to verify the funds. Afterward, the bank would report to the credit report late April/early May. By May 15th, everything will be resolved!

Yesterday I posted a question on a MSN message board regarding my credit score and the counselor congratulated me on nearly completing my program. He also told me that my score would receive a boost because I paid all of the money instead of settled, however, because several different variables he could not specifically determine my score.

Earlier this morning, I've realized that after being here for two years by summer 2008, I will be able to purchase a home. Also by then all of my creditors will have been paid off and I will have enough for the down payment. It is important to be proactive because financial spring cleaning is my goal!

Seize Opportunities II

Though this is the end of winter, the spring cleaning vibe has invaded my psyche! I am so happy to have applied to two universities that are highly reputable but will save me thousands of dollars.

I have just returned from two trips to the university where I will transfer (one to submit my application, resume and official transcripts, the second to deposit the $70 application fee) and Chipotle for my lunch (I budgeted for this because I would be out of the office during lunchtime). A customer service representative immediately emailed me a confirmation to which I asked about if the school has received my check. The woman whom I handed my application packet on the first trip acknowledges the check's receipt upon my inquiry about sending my GRE scores. I feel so much better than before because I know that the school will promptly process it. Now all that is outstanding are my recommendations and one has already been mailed.

During the final stages of preparation, I read the course descriptions and discovered that statistics was a prerequisites for econometrics. This motivated me to complete my distance learning statistics class by the end of April so that I could transfer it to my new school. This will allow me to take required courses, thus, accelerating my graduation.

Seize Opportunities

Earlier this morning I emailed my advisor about taking the majority of my economics classes at USDA but the program rebuffed. Instead of getting mad, I got active by visiting all of the local DC economics grad school then I stumbled upon a local grad school with cheaper tuition and an easier applicaton process. Reading the graduate program's curriculum, I know that I can graduate within one year. Also these summer classes are offered during reasonable hours meaning that I do not have to adjust my schedule. This summer I will take at least two classes maybe three. If I like this program, I will transfer all of my AU credits.

Immediately I called the office for pertinent information (FAFSA, GRE, recommendations). Tuesday I submit my application, resume and official transcripts to the downtown office because it is imperative to seize this opportunity! Submitting all of my information ASAP allows me to concentrate on securing two recommendations. This liberates me from being stuck in Virginia! I am not worried about not being accepted because I am already an Economist who has received stellar performance evaluations. Now it is time to realize the abundance of available opportunities that abound!

Spring Break Reflections

This week I have been out of school (for the most part) and out of the office attending a policy conference, economist luncheon and two Toastmaster events. These events allow me to gain perspective about the importance of balancing work, school and life. This entire week, I haven't done any homework. Instead I shopped for career clothes, arrived home early and rested and just plain enjoyed myself knowing that come next week, the daily grind will resume.

I needed this break because the twin dynamics of attending school and week had zapped my vitality! I was so dogg tired that my muscles were always tense and contracting. I just felt tired. However, since I did not have those stressors, I could just rest, review my daily and weekly progress without time constraints.

Since today is the conclusion of spring break, here is what I have learned and accomplished:

That attending policy conferences, allowed me to learn new things and network with some fantastic people

That I need to take a break and listen myself every day. So I have included a wind-down phase to de-stress.

That I will elevate my game and complete all tasks on time. No excuses!

That as an American, I embody the requisite courage and perseverance to conquer anything. One the Toastmaster speaker mentioned these character traits and I totally agree because I rely on them to move from Cleveland and continue working while attending school. Immediately afterward, I mailed my first online statistics lesson in the pouring rain. As I walked to the post office to purchase a stamp, I realized the enormous amount of available opportunities that abound me; and, I refuse to allow rain to get in the way of this! Upon returning to my office reinvigorated with the thought that I can complete this online statistics class in my time frame, I packed everything in my book bag rejuvenated with the spirit of accomplishment that I can tackle whatever comes my way!

Two Steps Forward with Feet Firmly Planted on the Ground

Last month, paying off my smallest creditors while paying down my second-smallest creditor were my two biggest financial goals. And after accomplishing them, I moved full steam ahead by paying off the second smallest creditor. By the end of the this year, I will be debt free!

My poor financial mismanagement is the real why I reside in Virginia instead of DC but by August, I will be back in the city! I can almost feel it because my credit score will have increased over 100 percentage points. Coupled with my income and much improved saving habits, and I will return in better shape than when I departed.

This one year exile has made me become more fiscally responsibility for every decision that I make. If I don't understand something, I ask numerous questions. I am unafraid of looking too bossy. This is my money therefore, it is my life! I have taken control of everything from my money to my career. Even though I have been here for only ten months, I have taken five computer training courses, and participated in two organizational conferences to enhance my economic understanding. I vie for more challenging assignments because I hate complacency and stagnation! I can envision myself as a ZP-III Economist and will accomplish this in May.

Envisioning myself as a wealthy woman has broaden my outlook and has touched every aspect of my life. Now that I can envision myself doing these things, I no longer feel inadequate. For instance, when I saw my Perkins Loan bill and realized that it was less than two of my credit cards, I began developing an action to payoff the total amount rather than defer it. After my credit card debt, I will tackle my student loan. I can see myself as totally debt free by age 35. This is what I mean by taking two steps forward with my feet firmly planted on the ground!

Winds of Change

Yesterday while watching Suze Orman’s Women & Money series, I realized that I had to payoff the remaining amount owed to Citibank to close this account and be one step closer to being debt-free! During her tv special, a woman in the audience had $6800 in credit card debt but $10,000 in savings though she proclaimed that she had so much money. Suze told her that she had so little and that she was afraid to repay because she’d thought that she would had been broke. Immediately the lightbulb clicked! That was me. No, I wasn’t giving my family money but I did the money in savings and an outstanding Citibank account.

This morning I called Citibank to make payoff arrangements. The rep informed me that the actual amount. I agreed and she stopped the accruing interest, Then I recalled the company to inquire about what would happen afterward to which the rep responded that my account would be reported immediately to the credit bureau upon receipt of payment and that after thirty days, I can request an official letter. I will mail my payoff this morning and will look out for its posting this Thursday or Friday. By the end of this week, I will have only Hudson & Keyse left and will pay it off by December.

The second woman in the audience talked about how even though she made mortgage payments that her house was in negative amortization because those payments didn’t cover the total amount (Hearing this made me feel so bad because she was 29). She responded that should get rid out of the house, because it was bringing her so much pain. Immediately I realized that living here in Virginia bought me a lot of pain because I had to take a bus to work instead of just the red line metro train. Plus that consumed an additional $1.25 every day from my Metropass. Even if I had a car, it would still be inconvenient for me and although I do love the proximity of the community college to my residence, I truly believe that staying in DC offers me better proximity to American and UDC. On top of that I could go to the grocery store whenever I wanted and because I lived in a house, didn’t have to worry about UPS. Yes, it is time to move back to DC or to Rosslyn and retain my residency.

While returning to work after my post office run, Suze Orman’s words about being happy that I have a job instead of being broke with no money resonated with me. Yes I added an additional $100 to my payment but so what? The debt needed to be repaid anyway and the more money the better. Besides the Citibank rep cancelled my finance charge and stretched my due date from March to April.

Furthermore, I only have to work three more days before I am officially off. Then next week is the policy conference in Crystal City where the major panels do not start until 11am meaning that I can stay at home in bed until 10am then mosey over there via the bus and AU spring break meaning that I can just go home Thursday evening. My job is virtually cake for these next three weeks plus I am getting paid so how can I beat that?

Suze had eight principles for a wealthy woman and happiness and cleanliness are two of them. Over this past month, I have had two major acne breakouts from what I guess was because I no longer used Lever soap on my face; but, I made a personal commitment that I would allocate money towards personal care products that ensure that I no longer get anymore acne on my keloid skin. I need to take better care of myself and Tuesday I will travel to the store to buy more towels to reduce over using them plus I can buy more blazers and spring ensembles.

This week I will make the most out of my life by relaxing and focusing on balance. It is important to achieve this and watching the Suze Orman Women & Money show has awaken me from my Type-A, professional slumber.

Moving On Up

Last night's NABA/NBMBAA Joint Meeting and today's divisional meeting enhanced my professional insight. The Joint Meeting was held at an accounting firm at Tysons Corner. As I walked to the building, I remembered my fear about being around upwardly mobile people. Yes, although I had a degree, I wasn't rich like those people. However, after paying off my creditors and being on my job for nine months, I realized that I belonged here. No question about that!

The Joint Meeting had a panel discussing career mobility issues. One of the panelist mentioned that helping others is the importance of networking and that he had received more help from people outside of this company than inside. Another one commented that the best time to change careers was when you were on top because that when you had everything going for you with the least amount of risk. I carried those sentiments with me to today's meeting.

The boss discussed several measures but the most importance to me were the federal approval of tuition reimbursement, training classes, the spring policy conference, and the personal project. Since I am still contemplating between the two schools, achieving residency, and weighing all relocation costs, it is heartening to know that the agency has the money! Also the spring policy conference offers an abundance of opportunities to hone my craft and network by joining economic organizations which spark my interest. This past weekend I updated my wardrobe by purchasing a matching suit and slack set that I wore at the Joint Meeting. In my closet I have two suits but will review my budget tonight to see if I can buy another one. For these two days, I will wear both of them to display an air of professionalism (I might even buy business cards!) Also the boss informed us that we should be working on our personal/developmental project(I guess mine is the SAS work!) and to submit it by the end of the month. Working on my project presents another opportunity to shine and receive my promotion. Even with budget tightness, I will still excel at my position!

With three months until my annual review, I see myself becoming the consummate professional by exceling on my job, networking and branching out to learn new things.

Conversations with my father and other empowering chats

Two profound things occurred during this President's Day Weekend. The first occurred early Monday morning while talking to my father. He asked about my graduation date. Until then I did not think about an actual timetable. My thoughts just drifted to transferring out my current school into another. Passively, I would graduate next year in 2008. Unbeknownst to me, his question challenged me to fully analyze my current situation.

Right now, I am at AU and am enrolled in calculus I. Visitng the graduate school's site, it has the spring 2007 quarter course offerings. Calculus II is offered only electronically meaning that I would have to rely more on the tutoring center for personal help. However, I also realize that I can use both my current calculus and the online statistics courses as opportunities to prepare for calculus II's in-person final exam. My calculus final is the only test offered in-person. And the online statistics class will be my guinea pig of sorts since stats is way easier than calculus-based math!

Factoring in the fact that I will be finished with calculus II by late June, allows me consider taking my remaining course work and graduate during the summer or by this fall. I will see if AU offers microeconomics and mathematical economics this summer; and, if so, I will register and start evaluating my options. Microeconomics requires calculus II so my success will my barometer to gauge the landscape. After writing the initial draft, I fear that maybe this including my master's thesis is too much to bear; yet, I realize that completing calculus II by summer has always been on my agenda because it liberates me from spending over $1200 at the local community college because I do not have residency.

My father's conversation perfectly coincides with Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls, a wonderful movie about responsible black fathers. I totally loved the film and all of the actors, though I must admit that I could never have acted like Gabrielle Union towards any man like that. Get therapy!

Second happened this morning when I checked my account balance and realized that one of my creditors has cashed my check and my account will no longer incur finance charges! Immediately I emailed my counselor about this. She confirmed and reduced my total account balance. Afterward, I called my smallest creditor about paying off my account. The rep. provided me with the amount, a cost savings of over $100, and immediately mailed it. The exuberance and elation that I felt upon accomplishing my two biggest financial empowerment initiatives, was unimaginable at the beginning of 2007; however, I was serious about trimming down my debt, boosting my credit scores and remaining solvent.

These two episodes have tought me a lot about listening to others as well as myself.

Realization

Yesterday while riding home from school in a cab, I realized that I was a winner in one of the most competitive economy because I muscled my way into an Economist position and earn an economist degree from a top tier university.

Today's meeting with a financial advisor made me realize that I am on the right track .
When I arrived at 1pm for my appointment with the original financial advisor, a client associate met with me and informed me that advisor’s main clients had more than $250,000 in the bank account. Wow! I initially thought to myself “I only had a fraction of that!” Then I realized that this was a goal. I already know that I will amass no less than $1 million with my TSP by age 65 so why not to aim that high? He informed me that he didn’t have that much. But he helped me a lot. He was thirty and was extremely positive throughout the meeting. The conversation made me realize for the first time that I did really know what I was doing. He even mentioned that my credit card debt was not a lot which boost my confidence because I realized that I could pay all of this off by December.

Also I completed three SAS/AF chapters placing me right back into the certification race! Attaining this will increase my chances of receiving a promotion. The support staff also needed to be commended for assisting me.

Accomplishing all of my goals today made me realize that I can achieve anything! I know want I have to do with my life and I will document it in my new diary that I have bought this afternoon. I will publish my autobiography this summer chronicling my triumphs and tribulations. These first thirty have passed me by with somehwat of a blur but I have deciphered it and have finally stand on firm ground. Now that I am traveling in the right direction, now it is time ensure that I reach my destination: to become the first black Fortune 500 CEO!

Can It Be All So Simple?

All I tried to do was arrive to work on time to eat my breakfast and be prompt to the American Fact Finder class and what happened. There was an 11-minute delay on the blue line forcing me to take the yellow line. Then there was another orange and blue line delay at Capital South meaning that I missed two trains due to overcrowding. Then my badge was stuck in the bottom of my bag forcing me to miss the elevator but whom did I catch: my boss. We discussed the American Fact Finder class (he said that he forgot) and to train on the SAS/AF database (I will after reviewing SAS macro.) Well, at least I was on time to the American Fact Finder class but my computer was locked so I had to reboot by pulling the plug out of the wall to restart it.

However, my day did get better because I was able to retrieve SAS information ensuring me that I can adequately prepare for my new SAS class and to achieve certification. Thus far, I have finished half of my SAS I lesson and it will be completed by tomorrow.

Super "Soul" Bowl

Yesterday's super bowl was historic because this was the first time that both coaches were black! Furthermore, I was happy that Tony Dungy won especially after being dogged and disregarded in Tampa Bay. He practically built that deplorable franchise (while hiring his mentee, Lovie Smith, who later became Chicago's head coach) into a Super Bowl contender only to be fired after leading the Buccaneers to three playoff seasons (Gruden later became coach and Tampa Bay won immediate after Dungy's departure.). In addition, I am happy that both coaches showed grace and respect for the players and the game. May every Super Bowl possess the same level of decorum that these tow coaches displayed!

Getting Back into the Swing of Things

Although this is officially the third week of classes, I am still trying to get into the swing of things. I practically hate cracking open my calculus book (which is probably attributed to the fact that the professor taught all the way until 9pm making me miss my bus!), however, this is a necessary evil because I need this class to graduate with my M.A. in Economics. Afterward, I take calculus II and online statistics then rest for the remainder of the summer to avoid burnout.

During my hour plus ride on the yellow line (which was due to construction), I reevaluated attending doctoral school. I weighed the options of enrolling the economics program or receiving my DBA (though it would be easier since I already had an MBA and wouldn't taking prerequisite courses or require as much math). Even though it is January, already I need a vacation!

Extraordinary

Extraordinary (adj.)-1) not ordinary; out of the usual order. 2) going far beyond the ordinary degree, measure, limit, etc.; very unusual; remarkable. 3) outside of the regular staff; sent on a special errand.

I possess extraordinary talent and coupled with numerous opportunities yields innumerable prospects for me to soar higher beyond the stratosphere. After eight months as an economist, I am looking for a new challenge which is to earn SAS base certification. My next class is this Monday and I know that I have what it takes to pass the test. Furthermore, after one year here, I will seek SAS advanced certification to bolster my professional position. As this section’s residential programmer and data maintenance specialist (a new distinction that I won by aggressively seeking out the most challenging opportunities!), it is important to equip myself with the knowledge to better serve my constituents.

However, I want to venture even further by learning how to program in a foreign language. The remarks made by Bill Taggart from last year’s NBMBAA annual conference left an indelible imprint upon my psyche. He advocated that instead of traveling to Miami with my friends to spend some money going to emerging markets to build professional relationships. Since my birthday is in August, I chose Brazil because its population is nearly 300 million people and has a lot of foreign direct investment pouring into the county. The software company has a country-specific Portuguese site and come spring quarter I will take beginning Portuguese to prepare for this trip. This endeavor conjured up memories about wanting to learn the four major Western Hemisphere languages. I already know English and Spanish. Preparing for Brazil will have me learning Portuguese. Leaving French which I will learn after achieving state residency. Dare to be extraordinary!

Emblematic

Emblematic (adj.)- of containing or serving as an emblem; symbolic.

I am emblematic of diligence, foresight, hard work, faith and perseverance and everyday I commit myself towards building my Fortune 500 empire with good credit and a diverse portfolio.

From Bummer to Blessing

Yesterday's clobbering of my Ohio State Buckeyes at the hands (and feet) of the Florida Gators for the 2007 BCS Championship threw me in a funk! It was surreal. I knew that they had a 51 day layoff and Ted Ginn, Jr. sprang his ankle, but still OSU looked lethargic. However, the succeeding events throughout today have more than compensated for it.

Financial empowerment: Four months after getting out of ChexSystems, I opened an online savings account which gives me a 5.25% APY. My goal is to save $1000 to convert into the bank's 6-9 month CD which requires a $1000 minimum deposit. By this December, I will have saved the $3,000 to open my Vanguard account.

Tavis Smiley's commentary has struck a positive chord with me: We’re all gifted. And when Gods gives you a gift, He gives us a corresponding need to use our gift. This year discover your purpose. Walk in your vocation.

This year I will make a concerted effort to live out my purpose and zone out the noise, negativity and the clutter. Since education is important to me, I will become an advocate to ensure that everyone receive an affordable, high quality education. By age 40, I will saved the money to found my own book scholarship to benefit poor people. Lifting as I climb by helping others is an important character trait and I wish to work hard at it every day.

Furthermore, I have read many higher educational articles from NACAC to MSN Encarta about adult learners returning to college. Reading their testmonies has made me feel blessed that I have earned my graduate and undergraduate degrees by age twenty-five. However, I have learned a thing or two about exhibiting a positive mental attitude. One lady asserts that instead of thinking that when she completes her degree that she will be 52 years old the she will envision herself as a 52 year old with a degree. Even though sometimes graduate stuides can be tedious when I finish my graduate degree, it will all be worth it!

2007 New Year Revolution: Overcoming Fear

Since last year’s resolution proclaiming that there are no quick fixes has come true, this year’s revolution is overcoming fear to become smart and wealthy. I fear losing money and risk, therefore, it is my responsibility to become better educated to eliminate that feeling. By December 31st, I will be debt free, maximized my 401 (k) contributions, opened a mutual fund account, achieved SAS base and advanced certifications, earned ZP-III Economist position, be accepted into the Aspiring Leaders program, and expanded my professional network.

Academically, I will overcome my fear of failure and proceed into the spring semester with an open mind and optimism. Also I have the public economics book and study guide so by classtime, I will be prepared. By December 31st, I will have retained my honor society membership, magna cum laude status, have written my master thesis, taught as an online instructor, and have completed one year of calculus and mathematics for economists. I can accomplish my academic and financial objectives by eradicating the fear that gets in my way of becoming success!

Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm (n.)- intense or eager interest; zeal; fervor.

I am enthusiastic about my life and career trajectories because I can only go up from here and I am not even at rock bottom! 2007 will bring me career advancement, financial prosperity, traveling for conferences and my 30th birthday, completing my graduate degree, and expanding my professional network by joining and contributing to social organizations that I am devoted to.

Positive Feedback

Black Enterprise published my emailed response regarding the September 2006 publisher's page remarks about the importance of education. When I wrote that in August and I just started American. If I could whether relocation, getting flooded, moving again, dual enrollment at two colleges and having to take the bus then the train to work, then I can survive anything! I am currently enrolled at both AU and NOVA and look forward towards graduating December 2007. This more than makes my day and rekindles my personal flame to become a writer. Now even when the macro verdict comes down, I will remain on solid ground! All of the hard work is done. Now all I have to do is continue pushing myself to become a better person everyday and I will be okay!

On the Fast Track

Horoscope: People will be coming to you for advice and assistance - and who can blame them? You are the one who has all the answers. You might as well put up a sign and start charging. People will be lined up out the door to see you. Make time for others.


Yippee! My boss has come to me and offered me my dream job: to become a programmer, take SAS/AF II and manage the AF database that my former coworker once had! Hot dog! I am on the fast track! Tuesday I will start preparing for my SAS III class this upcoming January. My boss’ proclamation came right out of my success journal. This is unbelievable. It is one more confirmation that I will be successful on this job!

Goodwill and Good Cheer

Yesterday my mother and the non-profit money management organization whom I sent Christmas cards to called to thank me. I appreciated that my card touch them so; and, unbeknownst to them their phone calls gave me Christmas cheer. Spreading goodwill to all men is the what Christmas is all about. Their positive feedback motivated me to write another batch of Christmas and even to thank some more people who helped me on my journey from Cleveland to Arlington.

Opportunity Journal Entry #2

Yesterday I enrolled in my first healthcare program. Obtaining health insurance is the cornerstone to wealth building. Speaking of which American has received my check and has released its hold allowing me to register for spring.

Since I am enrolled at NOVA, even if the university tells me that it won't accept analytical calculus, I will simply test and keep my math credits. Doctoral programs require analytical calculus plus the math lab tutors and some applied calculus students have made disparaging remarks about the lack of theory. If applied calculus cannot teach me how to solve calculus problems then I will not take it even if if causes some scheduling problems!

Although Marymount offers only daytime classes, I have switched my focus to another Virginia in-state university which collaborates with my community college. This means that I can take online courses at NOVA and simultaneously earn both community college and my BA in Math! There are a few kinks that need to be sorted out like the majority of the math courses are offered during the mornings (the employee informed me that attending every session is at the teacher's discretion). However, if that is the case then I would just take online courses.

This whole manuevering thing has made me reconsider UDC although it is located in Washington, DC and I will not receive the in-state rate. My goal is take as many math classes as possible during the three years between my masters and doctoral degrees to skip the math requirement.

Opportunity Journal

Opportunity: a combination of circumstances favorable for the purpose; good chance.

The idea of keeping an opportunity journal came from last Thursday’s life coach meeting. Lynda remarked about my taking advantage of all of the opportunities afforded. She mentioned that very few people who relocate and transfer to another school simultaneously. Yet I had the drive to do so. She was right but I had never considered quitting!

Having just arrived in Virginia less than four months ago, I have left an indelible mark here. I am excelling at the local community college and look forward towards taking calculus next spring. Transferring to a four-year college and receiving my B.S. in Math en route to attending a top tier Ph.D. business and economics program, is my long-term goal, which I will achieve but capitalizing on all available opportunities afforded me.

Life after CLEP II

My community college online representative has just called to inform me that the online credit information is incorrect and that the online and offline tuition will be the same. This means that I might enroll in the offline class presuming that I do not have the professor who will do all of his lectures via calculator instead on the board. If so, then I will take the online class.

This revelation also forces me to put off taking statistics next semester yet affords me another opportunity to test out of statistics via DANTES. I am still buying the Statistics for Dummies workbook to prepare for it.

Life after CLEP

Yesterday I decided not to take the CLEP calculus exam and instead focusing on preparing for my transcript evaluation meeting. This proved to be a wise move because I received 35 credits towards my A.S. in Science/Mathematics degree. Earlier this morning, I faxed a copy of my data mining syllabus to audit a computer science course. This move would give me 3 credits plus an additional 3 from a lower-level computer science course; thereby, granting me a new total of 41 credits. Now my focus would be strictly math classes. No CLEP. No PLACE.

I was glad that I had the face-to-face meeting because of the counselor's ineptitude. She could not locate my degree conferred and major on the top of the transcript. Then upon informing her that I earned 24 credit hours in economics, she responded, "Are you an economics major? Well, Duh?" She was unbelievable!

At the conclusion of this meeting, I asked about receiving honors status. She gave me the contact person and walked to the office, completed an application and upon returning to campus for my math class later that evening submitted two official transcripts. I also emailed a cover letter and my resume detailing my accomplishments to the contact who approved me! :) However, now I would have to take an honors seminar which might interrupt my plan of enrolling in a Virginia public university next fall 2007. However, even though I would graduate next December 2007, I could still continue taking classes.

Upon exiting the Honors program division, I returned to the counseling center where I retrieved three out of the four articulation agreements. One, in particular, caught my eye though I was skeptical about enrolling at a Catholic university (I am Protestant as have all of my schooling) so I will see what materializes.

Honestly, I am contemplating whether or not I should apply for transfer status next year of wait until 2008 when I have exhausted all of my community college course options because I do not want to be charged a higher tuition rate.

Countdown to CLEP

Today is one week to the day I take the CLEP calculus test! Even though I left my graphing calculator and precalculus notebook at home during the Thanksgiving break (never again, will I mix work with vacation), my father has mailed them yesterday; and, I had completed reading up to chapter 8 in the Calculus for Dummies book.

Later this evening, I will review my precalculus homework and test questions (the professor stopped the test because the majority of the students struggled to answer most of the questions though I had only one remaining. However, I, too, benefited from reviewing some of my answers. Honestly, I do not feel compelled to review every test answers in light of the professor okaying my answers to the most challenging homework problems. But, at least there is an opportunity to score higher than last week so I might as well review them.). After arriving on campus, I will continue to review my test questions, then submit my homework.

Unknown to me upon reading the text, I have covered a lot of the subjects in my precalculus class such as vertical and horizontal asymptotes and difference equations. Later tonight I will search my noted for corresponding homework problems and earlier assignments to refresh my knowledge.

The Week in Review

It has been over one week since I blogged and a lot of good stuff have transpired since last Tuesday. Yesterday I attended to MLK Memorial groundbreaking event, had an epiphany that I could complete my A.S. in Science/Mathematics degree by next December by taking CLEP, DANTES, portfolio assessment and waiving classes (and do not need to take the CLEP calculus exam to do so), completed reading part I in Trigonometry for Dummies ( I will finish reading part II today), and located some very good scholarships via VirginiaMentor and the Foundation Center. So much has gone right for me that I need to share it with the blogosphere:

Yesterday, Monday, November 13, 2006:
I awoke at 7:20am, caught the 7:31am 7C bus, forgot to grab my id card while awaiting the blue line metro to GWU, and spent nearly two hours trying to find the MLK Memorial groundbreaking event because of faulty directions. Though I made it and snapped pictures of Oprah, Senator Barack Obama and Tavis Smiley, I was glad to be in great shape for a very physical undertaking. I literally had to walk across Memorial Bridge! And it cost me $11 in Smartcard benefits! However, it was well worth it because I was a part of history and within two years the Memorial will be complete. Also all four of Dr. Martin Luther and Coretta Kings' children attended the event. Seeing Yolanda jogged my memory that I would be seeing her at another event this Saturday. Having heard her speak before, she was extremely gracious and informative.

Also yesterday I located some great scholarship sources at the NOVA and Arlington libraries. During lunch I will go to the Foundation Center to complete outlining Don't Miss Out then travel to NOVA where I will pick up 501 Ways Adult Learner can finance college! There are still five more scholarship deadlines before the New Year, and I am intent upon capitalizing on every single one of them!

Sunday, November 12, 2006:
I figured out by taking the CLEP and DANTES exams, waiving college courses and PLACE allowed me to complete my A.S. in Science/Mathematics by next December. In addition, I did not have to take the CLEP calculus to accelerate the process meaning that I
could relocate to Rossyln, Virginia, which is closer to work after August 1st, and attain VA residency while taking the remaining classes at Arlington Center. Yippee!

Celebrating Ten Years' of Active Franchise

Today marks my tenth voting anniversary. Not even I could had imagined when I cast my first ballot in 1996 all of the changes that would shape my life:

• Interning in Washington, DC in 1998
• Receiving my BA in International Economics in 1999
• Traveling to London in 2002
• Graduating with my MBA on my 25th birthday in 2002
• Returning to Cleveland State University as an MA in Economics student
• Winning the BEA Economist job
• Transferring to American University and the Northern Virginia Community College
  
  While boarding the late 22A bus I started thinking about how I would commemorate this event. Now, I understand that this is a milestone and here is where I will be come my twentieth voting anniversary:
  
• Graduating cum laude from American University in 2007
• Possessing three years’ mathematical knowledge to be accepted into a top 25 doctoral economics program
• Being debt free
• Owning my own home and business
• Graduating summa cum laude with my Ph.D.
• Fully fund my college book scholarship
• Have a $1 million net worth

Becoming a Mentor

Last week my mother sent me an email regarding her colleague's cousin seeking career advice. The woman,a sophomore, attended an HBCU and majored in International Business. Having obtained an International Economics, Mom deemed me qualified to give her advice (either that or she just liked to brag that her daughter worked in DC!). Immediately I visited the school's website and located student club resources and referred her to the nearest Urban League and Black MBA Association. After relaying her this information, I conducted my own search and to my surprise, located a Northern Virginia Young Professional chapter with a cheaper membership than the DC chapter!

Being propelled into this role felt easy because as I enter my fourth decade on this Earth, my horizons are expanding. During my thirties I want to fully fund my book scholarship to aid low-income students with college costs especially since financial need aid is disappearing. Therefore, becoming a mentor seems like a natural progression in this direction.

A New Attitude and a New Outlook

Last night, I thought of a new synonym for Ph.D. pressure hones diamonds in response to the debate that Reverend Al Sharpton and Jay had regarding voting yesterday on the Tom Joyner Morning Show. This is motivational because I want to obtain my Ph.D. plus franchise is extremely important to me.

Yesterday the math tutor told me that I needed some work on my algebraic concepts, that precalculus is the kind of math that I had to constantly work 100 problems, and upon the conclusion of my math session said until next time then proclaimed that “there is always a new time because you never stop learning!” How right he is. I have solved over twenty word problems in sections 4.7 and 4.8 alone and will incorporate them in my regimen because force me to think outside of the box. At the beginning of class, I feared word problems but after having enormous success, solving them seems like second nature.

In addition, yesterday I also decided that I would take total control over my life, career and education by requesting information from all of the Virginia educational organizations and going to the Foundation Center during lunch to research.

I have just finished emailing Virginian educational organizations for material requests and will know focus on my upcoming meeting with the career counselor. Having finished my Individualized Development Plan and registered for the SGE Conference, I feel that my career is full stem ahead! Today’s meeting will cover the IDP and how to market myself at the conference and tips regarding the ASSA event this January. Also I will tell her about my latest NUL and NAACP discoveries.

Discussing my IDP with her helped me immensely because she gave me more ideas regarding attaining my short-term and long-term goals. First, she talked about adding the ASSA Convention and NABE Policymaking conference to my IDP. Second, regarding Toastmasters she gave me the idea to create an icebreaker for the SGE conference (how ingenious!). I can practice my public speaking skills here at the conference. Why wait until November 8th? Third, she asked (well, actually prodded me) to seek out a mentor (I really do not know anyone so how could I?). Her remarks forced me out of my comfort zone. Immediately after the meeting I emailed my boss about my IDP so that he could review it.

Working Woman's Credo

I represent
This I can’t deny
As the Chinese proverb proclaims
“Women hold up half the sky”
I work so let’s myself perfectly clear
I embody Esther and Ruth
Biblical feminism for 5000 years

Manifest

I have the recipe
To manifest my own destiny
Every morning I awake
Every second that I breathe
I believe that I can achieve
All of my dreams
Though sometimes it seems
That life unravels at the seams
My radiance beams
Shine bright
Illuminate the daylight
Possessing insight
Examining hindsight
Incorporating foresight
To do what’s right
Add vigilance with due diligence
And the sum is intelligence
Multiply times experience
And the product is magnificence
This is what I manifest

Finding my PLACE

Finding my PLACE (Prior Learning Activity for Credit Evaluation). The PLACE program allows me to earn up to 15 credits towards an Associate Degree. Since I will take so many math courses, my goal is to create portfolios for Introduction to Computing (after three SAS courses, I know how to use and program a computer!), and Introduction to Speech Communication (After and publicly speaking at Toastmasters, this will be a shoo-in!). I will take the student development this spring semester to learn how to compile a portfolio (which will help me with my master’s thesis and year-end appraisal) then submit them during fall 2007 after achieving residency to reduce costs. Employing this strategy saves me a boatload of money!

The A.S. in Science/Mathematics advising sheet has a history elective course which I will take the CLEP American Government test, ace it then audit the class; transfer my CSU micro and macro classes for the social science electives; and enroll at UDC to take linear algebra/differential equations to audit NOVA’s differential equations and linear algebra courses. Since I will receive residency until August 1, 2007, that’s a cost savings of nearly $1235, the cost of one course!

300 Million and Counting

The United States hit the 300 million mark this morning at 7:46am! I am ecstatic because it ushers in a new era of change. Many people are rightfully concerned about overpopulation, however, yesterday NBC reported that Holland has a population density 15X that of the United States so we will be okay. However, I worry about the environmental concerns especially global warming. We must make a more concerted effort to reduce greenhouse gases, and car emissions.

As a futurist and an optimist, I am looking forward to the year 2043, when the 400 millionth American is born because by age 66 I will have accomplished an abundance of things. As Quincy Jones proclaimed to Oprah Winfrey on the Color Purple set, “Your future is so bright, you’ll burn your eyes just looking at it!”

Circle of Influence

Yesterday Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) reported that black youths age 15-25 are the most politically active in the United States. This made me euphoric because I knew that we had passion! However, it also claimed that their 2002 counterparts (I was 25 in 2002) were more politically active which was true. The report harkened back to Reverend Al Sharpton’s October 11, 2006 radio commentary about youth and relevance. He preached that you could be young and irrelevant to your own generation. How true! Even though I possess two degrees with one on the way, a job in my field, and ten years’ voting experience (I will celebrate this milestone in November at Morton’s), I tussle with remaining relevant as I enter my thirties. See, securing my MA in Economics degree or the CPA licensure exclaim relevance. I believe that social activism equates relevancy as since I strongly value education, endowing a scholarship to help blacks obtain a degree makes me relevant. This is one of my goals that I will accomplish by age thirty-five.

Instant Emotional Lift

Eureka! While searching www.about.com I located the Quotations guide site which has an abundance of achievement quotations. I will contact the Stress Management guide because this will surely release a lot of stress!

These are some that I like:
Christine Frankland: Inspirational Quotes: Accomplishment QuotesLife is just a blank slate, what matters most is what you write on it.
Jack Kinder: Inspirational Quotes: AchievementHigh achievement always takes place in the framework of high expectation.

I do have very high expectations for myself because I believe that I can accomplish them! I know what I am capable of so I will continue setting the bar high. If I did not believe in myself, I would not have accomplished all of these things; and, I know that I can do much, much more that is why I continue to challenge myself, push myself beyond my comfort zone. I cannot get comfortable because then I lose my edge, my zest for life.

Evaluating Myself

Talking to the career coach about my short-term and long-term goals has helped me a lot. Actually her objectivity confirmed what I have been feeling about obtaining my CPA, that it should be used to improve social condition such as assisting low-income people with filing their taxes through a financial literacy organization like America Saves. Right now, my focus is on MA in Economics and math. At age 29, I knew what I wanted to accomplish but never considered that I possessed an unusually high level of maturity. Sheesh! This was how I always thought so why question it?

She also gave me a copy of the Individualized Development Plan which outlined my short-term and long-term goals. Becoming a SES Economist was one of my long-term goals and even though achieving gs-14 level would take five years, I was up for the challenge. Maybe I chewed too much. Well, only Heaven knew, really! She commented on getting copy of the ZP-III Economist announcement to see what I needed to accomplish in order to secure this position. Great idea because I know that I can pair it with the IDP short-term goal and match my performance with what was required.

Furthermore, she talked about joining an organization to which I responded that I am a SGE member and its biennial conference occurs this month. The light bulb illuminated immediately because although the agency would not pay for SGE, it might pay for ASSA especially after being inducted into ODE! I will pay for SGE, attend and network.

And the Winner Is...

Great news: American Edmund Phelps won the Economics Nobel Prize! Thus far the Americans have swept this year’s Nobel Prize . His work enhances the Phillips Curve which will are now studying. I have emailed my professor regarding his view since she mentioned the Nobel last week.

Edmund Phelps work was regarding intertemporal responses which is in my Mankiw book. This in addition to the Nobel Prize’s Contributions to Macroeconomics gives me ample material to read and discuss for tomorrow’s class.

Once again, I am happy that the Americans are sweeping the competition thus far. It is a signal to our motivation and intelligence. Too often we tell ourselves that we lack the competitiveness to find new inventions. I know that I possess the brain power to become the first woman Nobel Economics recipient! I can feel it!

At the Fair

Attending the George Washington University School of International Affairs open house has reinvigorated my doctoral search and recommitted me to executing on my job. As the first visitor at the Ivy League table, I told the recruiter where I worked, he exclaimed “Wow!” His response made me think that working here is big time stuff! I will stay here for at least two years to solidify my resume and obtain my MA in Economics degree. I know feel that I will be selected to attend my favorite doctoral in economics program. It was also in attendance as well as two other Ivies (I hit all of those tables). USC had its new Public Diplomacy program on display (which was extremely cool!); plus I retrieved information from several other reputable schools. I left knowing that I too could compete with the rest of the world and the importance of studying statistics to increase my job productivity.

Advocacy

Advocacy: active support of an idea or cause etc.; especially the act of pleading or arguing for something

In six more hours, it will be all over! I am so ready for my holiday weekend to commence: I can write my autobiography, see movies, rest and relax, and unwind. I can see myself being more productive in a less stressful environment. And I will thoroughly enjoy it!

At age 29 year old with an MBA and Economist, I know that I have a story to tell. In the spirit of the midterm elections, I will do something to commemorate my tenth anniversary of voting. There is something to be said about having ten years’ voting experience under your belt and I am not thirty. This is a significant milestone. Participating in democracy allows me to stay engaged to current events. I do not understand how you not be informed?

Ambition

Ambition (n.) 1) strong desire for success, fame, power, wealth, etc. 2) the thing so desired.

This week the Nobel Prizes are being announced and thus far they have all been Americans which dispels the myth that we are not good in math or science. This further motivates me to learn math and to try harder in my studies to become the first female Nobel economics prize recipient. I know that I have what it takes to do it!

I successfully aced last night's exam by reviewing my answers and correcting multiple errors which would had hurt me badly. During the examination, Professor Johnson told the class that she would provide a formula sheet for the next test because there would be an abundance of them to learn. That remark spurred me into action because I wanted to cover sections 4.1-4.4 by Thursday’s class to ensure that I understood all of the material. Using my vacation time wisely would enable me to position myself to not only learn logarithms and trigonometry but also place me on track to excel on the CLEP precalculus and calculus exams.

The Skinny on Being Skinny

This whole I hate skinny people crazy is ridiculous. Sure, there are some anoxerics and bulimics but what society is not discussing is that we have a weight problem in America. Americans are getting fatter not skinner. I do not understand the constant slender bashing against those who are built this way!

My Thoughts about Moving Up the Food Chain

Today’s Wall Street Journal reports that college education influences them to become Republican by age forty struck a nerve with me. Is this the reason why my mother voted Republican (Honestly, I thought that she did that like so many other blacks were because they grew up on welfare). However, I cannot foresee myself voting Republican just because I earn more money because I have an internal need to give back to my community. If I hold onto my money then I am stingy and that benefits no one.

Blossom

Blossom (v.i): 1) to have or open into blossoms; bloom. 2) to begin to thrive or flourish; develop.

Even though I had looked this word about two weeks ago to assess my life’s progress, today a poem just popped into my head entitled, Blossom:

I am blossoming into the woman I want to see
The one I want to see
Confident in everything
Who values knowing something
Who is constantly changing

As I approach thirty (which will be next August 9th) I am examining my life’s work and contributions. Entering my fourth decade on this planet, now is the time to positively contribute to the community. I have done so in the past but during this decade I will increase my philanthropic output by donating time and effort to educational causes. By age forty, I will have accomplished the following:

Achieved a $1 million net worth by paying off credit card and student loan debts, contributing to my retirement savings and 401 (k) plans, and signing for a 15-year mortgage instead of a 30-year one

Earned a Ph.D. from an elite school by working, debt free by teaching online economics courses, and freelance writing

Found my own business by merging my online teaching profile with freelance writing and photography

Be married

Travel to Africa, attend an Olympiad, and return to London

Publish a book about my life’s work and contribution by age 30 and a travel writing book.

Obtain a CPA. I have an MBA why not go for it!

Abigail Trafford’s A Texas Trailblazer, an appreciation about the late Texas governor Anne Richards’s contribution to the women’s liberation movement. The reporter dubbed her as “the first wave of First and Only Women (FOWs) who defied female stereotypes and broke down the doors of the old-boy establishment.” Ann Richards was no ashamed to admit that she was an alcoholic and rose from this personal tragedy to become governor. Even though I was only 13 when Richards won the governorship, her presence loomed large for all women. I have pasted Abigail Trafford’s link here:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/02/AR2006100201362.html

As the third wave of women in the workforce I understand that it is my duty to uphold the forbearers’ legacies and to not disappoint. That’s why I am adamant about pursuing higher education and being the best that I can be.

Breakthrough

Definition:An act of overcoming or penetrating an obstacle or resistance

Being accepted into Omicron Delta Epsilon, the international economics honor society, was a major breakthrough moment for me because this was the first time that I received this level of academic recognition. Upon graduation, I would be happy to don the honors regalia in the procession line! This announcement also confirmed my overachieving streak. I constantly wrestled with this label, because even though I worked extremely hard, and as a Type A personality demanded a lot out of myself and others, I neither crushed nor destroyed anyone in my path on my way towards accomplishing anything.

Ring The Alarm

Omg! The House just passed a measure where I would have to show identification in order to vote because of illegal immigration. Now Saturday I will have to go and get my new state id, but the war on voting rights is not over! I will email all of my US Senators about this. My goal is to ensure that civil rights will become a victim of the war on terror. Now it is high time to become vocal! I emailed four senators and the president because this matter to urgent to ignore!

Yesterday after work I went to the AU math lab to review my precalculus chapter 1 answers and second homework. The tutors were extremely helpful to me throughout the process. Since I must go to the metro station Sunday to renew my SmartBenefits, I might consider traveling to American to review my homework. In addition, a Wall Street Journal reporter emailed me to cite my email regarding her article. I was astounded when she proclaimed that I had “some good points.” I hoped to receive a copy! This positive response to writing an email gave me confidence to write my first Toastmaster speech. The introductory speech is about telling the group about myself. See it is all coming together!

While returning from my morning break, my boss informed me that there was a fire alarm so I would not be able to get in. Immediately I walked to the intersection on 15th and K Streets to read the Washington Post and enjoy the sunshine. I took in the fresh air freeing me from the daily pressures and read the paper all the while thinking that regardless of what happens, I'm getting anyway.

Bag Lady No More

Dear Carla:
You should stop being such a bag lady. Since you no longer have class on Monday, this frees up your Mondays and Fridays so why haul all of that stuff along with you?
Good point: Starting today I will no longer carry any unnecessary baggage from work to personal life. I really do not need those disks and besides, all I need is my lunch and a good book which I can wrap in another plastic bag.

Also within one month I will be enrolled in the debt repayment plan to boost my credit score to relocate back into Washington, DC. Dropping bad debt is a big thing for me because my credit score will skyrocket! Within ten months this will all be a memory!

Financial Empowerment Update

During these past two days, there have been a lot of financial activity that display the power of emergency savings and sound financial planning. Yesterday, I used the $250 savings to purchase my Thanksgiving plane ticket and to hail a cab after the AU-Tenleytown metro caught afire and became inaccessible. Even though the cabbie was a little loopy the ride home allowed me to think about the importance of my family.

Today I cashed the $40 money order refund for groceries and changed my bank information with FACTS to ensure a smooth withdrawal for the final community college tuition payment. Later in the day, I tried a third time to reach a creditor to obtain my most recent statement. After a roll, my statement collection activities seemed to crawl at a snail’s pace. Well, at least I know that come October everything will be set.

Good Timing

Yesterday I served as the timer for my first Toastmasters meeting and excelled at the position. I think that I will like participating in this organization because I get to hear many different viewpoints and improve my verbal communication skills. Since songwriting and book publishing are my favorite avocations, Toastmasters will help me master my craft.

Going Sideways to Get Ahead

I have been giving advice to Mr. Slowik who chronicles his job search at www.careerjournal.com. Today he discussed his job search and his interest in working with trusts and estates because of the human contact. Immediately I located the New York bar Association’s Trust and Estates Section, and emailed CareerJournal the link (the editor informed me that my response would be forwarded to Mr. Slowik). It amazes me how very little I know about law but how important it is help someone in need obtain objective advice!

This past Sunday I received the same advice from the math tutor in regards to micro. I dropped the course to focus on improving my math skills. I still will take the CLEP and have emailed my College Board guidance counselor regarding my intent to review CLEP material. Passing the CLEP calculus test is more of a personal victory than catching up (though that would be nice, too! However, improving my quantitative abilities has always been a priority!), because I am at a point in my life where completing my MA in Economics at age 30, in two years instead of one is not the end of the world. Matter of factly, it will represent the beginning of a new decade of promise.

This confession is astronomical coming from a Type-A person who has always completed degrees on time; however, working in my field as an economist affords me the privilege to sit back acquire experience then apply it to my education. Besides an MA is not a prerequisite for my career goal of obtaining a Ph.D. I already have a BA in International Economics plus I can earn my Doctor of Business Administration. Fretting too much about ticky-tack things such as this never is my strong suit to I'll just continue going sideways to get ahead.

The High Price of Education

Horoscope: Engage that cranium, but remember to check in with your heart on a regular basis. Otherwise, it can be all too easy to lose your sense of direction and forget what's really important. You need rationality and intuition.

After responding to Jay’s remark about Daniel Golden’s book entitled, The Price of Admissions, was anecdotal, I dissected my life and education. Though Jay graduate from Harvard, no slouch myself, I graduated Hiram College, James A. Garfield’s, the 20th US President alma mater; traveled to London and received my MBA on my 25th birthday and now at age 29 attending American University as a MA in Economics candidate. Not too many people under age 30 can admit to doing that. On top on these accomplishments, I work, in the same field as my degree, as an economist. I am privileged to be bestowed all of these opportunities because many people are not so blessed. This is exactly why Jay’s “anecdotal” comment bothers me so much.

It is imperative in the midst of the debate regarding college accessibility, that we care about how top-tier institutions allocate their resources. Today Harvard announced that it will eliminate its early admissions which benefits the upper class, but we need more discourse about a university , the oldest American college, in existence since 1636 and a nearly 100 million endowment needing “kickbacks”!

The Economics of Time and Money

Yesterday I discovered that excelling on the calculus CLEP test would allow me to take the mathematical economics course; thus, accelerating my graduation date from summer to spring! Testing out of calculus will allow me to take mathematical economics in spring. This is the sole core requirement under the general track; and, transferring six graduate credits from my MBA degree gives me an additional advantage. The fact that I can graduate a semester ahead of schedule reinforces the importance of doing well on all of my coursework. My goal is to earn an A in all three classes and to use micro as a stepping stone towards studying for the CLEP calculus test. Also, I will prepare for mathematical economics by purchasing the Schaum’s easy outline and workbook.

This discovery also produces enormous time and cost savings for me because I can earn my MA in Economics degree for the least amount of money! This is a core component of my financial empowerment plan: to save time and money and maximize my return.

More

I am ambitious I must admit
Working as an Economist at a prestigious agency
Plus I am enrolled in American because
I want more

More
Than what’s out there
What is average
I do not wish to stagnate
I learn everyday in every way

With every breath I carry my history
First generation college graduate twice over
Possessing a BA and an MBA by my 25th birthday
En route to obtain my second masters by my 30th

Yet I want more
I need a more meaningful purpose than just this rat race
That’s why I’ve created my own plan
Leaving my signature, my indelible mark

Because I need more

Light

Illuminating its brilliance everywhere
Without even a single solitary care
Dominating darkness it won’t share
As its rays reach out with their all-present glare
Transporting me over there
Alleviating my burdens to bear
There’s no fighting don’t even dare
Because light is illuminating its brilliance everywhere

Rising to the Challenge

Great news!: After going to the math lab I have a renewed sense of optimism that I will survive micro after all! This is huge because acing micro allows me to learn calculus on the fly while preparing for the CLEP exam. The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) test is an educational component of my financial empowerment plan. AU and NOVA accept the calculus test and by scoring 75 I will test out of my math requirement. Currently I am paying $1235 at NOVA because I am a out-of-state resident at Northern Virginia community college. Combining the $60 test fee and $75 administrative fee, my cumulative cost is $135, a lot cheaper than $1235 at NOVA or $3144 at AU. After pass the test, I might take statistics or calculus II to boost my mathematical aptitude; however, excelling the calculus test clears one more graduation hurdle and allows for free sailing into summer semester’s mathematical economics (maybe I could even take it during the spring semester if I ace the CLEP calculus test this December, thereby, accelerating my graduation date from summer to spring!

Having a tutor review my micro homework lifted a huge burden off of my shoulders! During last night’s session, I actually envisioned myself at age 30 with my MA in Economics degree from American University. The fact that many of my answers were right boosted my confidence immeasurably. Now I can relax and focus on learning the material, and preparing for the CLEP calculus exam. My goal is to take what I have learned from micro and apply it to the CLEP. I believe that learning calculus with taking precalculus accelerates my learning curve. If I can survive this, then I can thrive throughout the program.

Another bonus: DSST, another college equivalency test, offers statistics and the opportunity to test out of the course. That’s another cost savings of $1235. Of course, I emailed an administrator because my community college branch was not listed (Due diligence always!). However, there is a strong possibility that I could start next semester in calculus II! I am so happy about these developments!

More financial empowerment: Last week I opened a Upromise account to save for both my community college math classes and my Ph.D. studies which are two years away. Tough $50 is the minimum contribution, I will increase mine to $100 and use my raises to increase my allotments. Within two years, the minimum amount will be $2400 which is enough for books and research costs.

See there’s someone out there who understands me!

I’m not the only one who fully values the importance of education and my decision to transfer to American to complete my M.A. in Education! Earl G. Graves, Sr. Black Enterprise’s publisher, loudly affirmed in his September 2006 publisher’s page that “Giving Up on College Is Not an Option” Though I love my family, continuing my M.A. in Economics studies at American was indispensable towards achieving my long-term goal of earning a Ph.D. I, too, was hit with sticker shock after seeing American’s tuition cost at $1048 is the most in Washington, DC, but my employer paid for one class and loans covered the remainder. In addition, I have applied for scholarships on a weekly basis, will subscribe to the Foundation Center’s Grants for Individuals Online this Friday to obtain more funding sources, and will actively use my Arlington library card this Saturday to retrieve more scholarships.

The publisher reminisced on his college days at Morgan State where he attended school full-time and work numerous jobs to finance his education. At least I am lucky that my employer paid for one course and six of my MBA credits can be transferred, allowing me to receive my M.A. in Economics degree through part-time study. I am truly blessed to be in a position where I can pay out-of-pocket for my community college math lessons and still maintain a decent standard of living.

Quit is not in my vocabulary and honestly I cannot see myself with only one semester of education. Following through has always been my priority and I know that my sacrifice will help my children and grandchildren. My economist job and salary are the direct results of higher educational attainment. Without my BA, I would not have been an economist and without my MBA, I would not have commanded ZP-II; and, without a $45,000 salary, I could have forgotten about living in a decent apartment and saving for college. I would be robbing Peter to pay Paul. Mr. Graves is right by quoting the old adage of “If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.”