Opportunity Journal Entry #11: Speaking the Honest Truth

While giving my seventh speech in the Toastmaster competent communication manual, I have learned that the advanced manuals only have five speeches instead of ten. Therefore, after completing my competent communication manual, I will start an advanced one. Since the 2007-2008 Toastmasters year ends on June 30, 2008, I know that I can deliver eight speeches in eight months! Developing my public speaking skills have helped me during my ZP-III promotion meeting with my immediate supervisor and his boss.

Though I do like the time lag between the GS and pay band schedules, at least he has given me some great feedback(Although I honestly feel that if another GS-11 opportunity comes along then I will take it because my personal timetable does not match my boss' boss.). ZP-III is a subject matter position so I must become well-versed in all of my components especially the laarge government programs. I will request information from these federal agencies to learn more about it. Also, after I return to my room, I will relearn SAS. He has also mentioned that I am doing well enough to receive another pay increase and also acknowledges that the pay band system is not as clear as the GS. However, I have pried a timetable out of him. He reviews ZP-III promotions after 20 months of service so I will excel on my county estimate cycle and prepare to become a subject matter expect so that I can petition for my ZP-III increase. Whether or not I am here at the BEA, becoming a subject matter expert is a helpful career move regardless of the position. I like research so this will be easy. Speaking of subjects I will research the Pell Grant for my research report. Honestly I like researching higher education because I place such a high value on it so I will take to my boss about how to go about it.

Clearing the air and knowing what is expected of me presents an abundance of opportunities to excel on the job and in the game of life.

Guardian of Truth

Okay. Black culture has hit a new low when Tom Joyner endorses the playing of a BET cartoon that curses at children. We should never compromise our integrity especially regarding our children! That’s ridiculous! We as adults should never bow down to lowest common denominator just to get something across to our youth. As a member of Generation Y, I am particularly concerned with the negative images being fed to my generation and I aim to stop this cartoon before it airs.

Yesterday I posted my discontentment with the Russ Parr Morning Show and now I am displaying my disapproval to acquiescing to crude behavior of the Tom Joyner Morning Show. This ordeal has made realize that regardless of format, I must decipher all messages and remain vigilant in promoting positive images inside and outside the black community.

Maturity at Age 30

Okay this is another sign of maturity. I’ve changed the channel from the Tom Joyner Morning Show to listen the Russ Parr Morning Show and instead of uplifting the people they are talking of Keke Wyatt’s Essence magazine comments about her proclaiming that although she’s 25% black with long hair and a pointy nose, that she fights on behalf of black people with dark skin and big noses. I guess my whole aggravation comes from B plus’ comment that it is to claim many different things (I am not against biracial people but Barack Obama calls himself black.) Most of the callers know the singer and says that she’s come from the project (which is funny because it’s always someone who wants to deny where he/she comes from). With all of this nonsense, I’ve missed the new Sounds of Blackness song Kings and Queens. Well, that’s a sign that as I turn 30, I am focusing on what is important. For the record, black people should create a classification system defining who is black. Why worry about someone else’s self-definition when there are real battles to fight. I wish all of those people the best, but when the police pull them over and throw them in jail, don’t call the NAACP to bail you out and fight on your behalf because remember you are not black in the first place.

The Struggle Continues 44 Years After The March on Washington

On the 44th anniversary of the March on Washington, I found myself defending higher education at the Brookings Institution Poverty in 2006 seminar held at the National Press Club in downtown Washington, DC. Mayor Bloomberg, the keynote speaker, say some of the stupidest things that I ever heard: paying poor children for class attendance and good grades. As a first-generation college graduate whose paternal and maternal grandparents were on welfare even although all four held full-time jobs, the mayor’s so-called opportunity program was the dumbest thing economically and socially for New York City because giving children money is immoral. Regardless of social ranking, you were supposed to go to school for your own betterment. Since Bloomberg liked espousing the virtues of capitalism, let me break it down. Even though his opportunity fund was privately funded, that $50 million was a one-time deposit and all future income streams would be publicly raised. The fundamental problem with publicizing this program was that the parents would be doubled-taxed. For example, in FY2006 the parents’ property taxes were allocated to the school district which gave their child $500 for each standardized test and another $500 for perfect attendance. Say, that the kid passed all four parts of the merit assessment tests and achieved perfect attendance thereby receiving $2500. That $2500 would be reported as income earned by the child on his parents’ FY2006 tax form that they filed in FY 2007. That same $2500 would be taxed by the federal government again into perpetuity. Though well-meaning Mayor Bloomberg’s opportunity program was in direct violation of capitalism which was laissez faire of not allowing the federal government to intervene!

Seek and Ye Shall Find

Recently my preoccupation of women receiving invitations to join select clubs got the better of me (I am already a member of one but this one was more exclusive than mine; and, all of the time I wondered what they had that I did not. At age 30, I was an economist with two degrees earned by age twenty-five and possessed and was active in many social service organizations because higher education was my calling. I had even met some women who were members though they were in their mid-fifties.) Since I lived only three blocks from the headquarters I decided to walk in the drizzle during Saturday evening. During the trek I bypassed the nondescript building which was a sure sign that if I missed its importance then it really was not important in the first place. Returning home, one of a group of lost German tourists asked me for directions to their hotel off of Rhode Island Avenue, NW and I kindly guided them back to their destination. At the end of the journey they waive goodbye. Finally, making it to my apartment, I understood that I was seeking the wrong kind of attention and that experience made me realize the real reason why I would make a perfect for this and any organization: I had goodwill, kindness, and a sure sense of direction.

More Than Just Window Shopping!

Perusing the racks at the CUSP Georgetown store during its advertised luncheon (well, it’s more informal than that), makes me comfortable being around semi-luxury clothes. This was not always the case. In my Banana Republic working days, I felt ashamed of my working class origins (I never saw anything over $250 in a mall before!); Although still married to the sales rack (you’d find the best stuff on sale at Neiman Marcus and Saks!), I successfully managed to overcome it. Though I occasionally splurge on an item, I am still a bargain hunter at heart. While looking at certain prices (a $350 dress would net me an entire Ann Taylor suit and Marmi shoes or an entire New York & Company slack collection), I did love the $750 gold sequin dress which’ll make me look like Tina Turner! :)

Sage

Sage (n): a very wise man; especially an old man respected for his wisdom, experience, etc.

Sage advice
Helps the future steer clear of vice
So that they do not make the same mistakes twice
And live life without strife

Imparting my knowledge like my ancestors, the griots
So that the younger generation can keep it thorough for tomorrow
Dispensing my wisdom
Reaching everyone like the prism’s spectrum
Education and truth are my sanctums
Because when they know better
They do better

Dignity

Dignity is indispensable
To be invincible
It’s impossible to be respected
When your morals have been ejected
We need to correct it
Instead of neglect it
So when life gets hectic
We’ll arise as expected

It's Not the Kids, It's the Adults

The ignorance behind paying children for good grades being constantly proliferated throughout the media will cripple our society because kids will expect cash payment for every good deed. Honesty, integrity and morality are not for sale. Therefore, instead of fighting with nonsensical people, I’ll use this blog to espouse positive solutions to help children become better. Remember, they are our future!

Embracing all of Life's Possibilities

Embrace (verb): to readily accept.

I have embraced turning 30 with such a fervor that, I have no intention to be 18, 21, or 25 again. Finally I have a job in my major and am self-sufficient. Why go through it just to change some things. My goal is to be a mentor to the younger generation and fight for better access to opportunities. Education is the reason why I am here and I want to extend that to those who come behind me. During my fourth decade on earth, I will endow my book scholarship to ensure that other first-generation college students can afford books since they now costs in excess of $500 per semester. That’s a huge burden for many whose parents can barely afford life’s essentials let along lofty collegiate expectations. However, obtaining a college degree is indispensable in today’s society; therefore, it is imperative to provide a means of funding for these students since they are our future!

Hustle & Muscle: Being the Change That I Want to See in This World

Hustle (v.i.): to work, or act rapidly or energetically.

Muscle (v.): to make one’s way by sheer force.


During the previous two weeks, I have been passively waiting to witness this life-changing epiphany that comes with turning thirty years old; but have realized that in the words of Ghandi I must be the change that I want to see in this world. Nothing gets done by being on the sidelines and my economist is proof positive of that. I remember working numerous temporary jobs, scrapping money together to afford Greyhound bus fare and Independence Air tickets to fulfill my dreams by taking the BLS and BEA Assessment exams and spending days on end at the public library applying for jobs, reading trade materials and brushing up on MS Office skills. Oftentimes, I struggled financially and emotionally as I saw my peers ascend the corporate ladder (so I thought). During these years, I had two checking accounts in arrears and bad credit. However, holding steadfast to the dream of becoming an economist, I persevered. These adversities though leaving me battled-scarred has also molded me into an impenetrably steely resolved woman who can out-hustle and muscle and withstand anything and everything! And, this is how I will enter my thirties!

Self-Examination at Age 30

I am so happy that a person has read my blog and has considered me to apply for an online commentary blog job! That’s an honor because all I try to do is remain positive and optimistic in the face of adversity. My blog uplifts not berates people.

Honestly, I am apprehensive about applying for this position because of my strong opinions on illegal immigration. I want to write about economics, women’s history and higher education (Women’s issues are an available topic); however, I will apply and see what happens.

However it makes me realize how important my interests are to me; and, has inspired me to write more blog material. One of my main motivations for writing this blog is disproving to certain people that I possess adequate writing skills; however, as I approach thirty, appeasing people is not even on my agenda. Now self-development is my focus. My thirties will represent a ten-year window of opportunity to accomplish everything that I want spiritually, emotionally and educationally. By age forty, I will be closer to holistic truth than I am now by eliminating the noise (fear, hate, anger) around me.

Marathon

Running and excelling at my own Fortune 500 firm is a marathon. Remember this’ll consume years of my life and I am intent upon putting my all into it. These elements to create the molecule called my business are school, creativity, and financial management. Attending UDC to strengthen my analytical knowledge will get me into Harvard, acing my work will enable me to win the GS-11 Economist promotion and a spot in the Aspiring Leaders Development Program.

Within two weeks, I will be thirty entering my fourth decade of life and with one-third of my life finished, I am seeking new challenges to grow and become a better person. During my first twenty-nine years on this earth, I have learned that quick fixes never work. Actually, I end up digging bigger holes over these misadventures but age and wisdom correct everything. Now I am more insightful about my future and more demanding of respect because I have earned it without stepping on people to advance (That’s big with me!).

Midterm Progress

Giving my fifth speech, I realize that I am halfway through my first manual. It gives me a lot of confidence to go farther. Since I will celebrate my thirtieth birthday in Miami, maybe I should email the local club to give it there. Throughout this year, I have conducted thorough self-examination on how I want to live out my fourth decade on this earth. I want to become a philanthropist through my book scholarship, an investor with a multi-million dollar portfolio by age 39, a wife and mother, a doctor and a homeowner.

Adventures in Interviewing

Since my boss did not explicitly say that I would automatically receive my promotion, I started interviewing to secure my raise. During a one week period, I had three interviews and here were the summaries:

July 17, 2007

I interviewed for the economist position with another federal agency but scratch it off because of the 20 minute walk (It was too dependent upon the 71 bus.). My boss questioned me about my three-hour absence. Well, that would not happen Wednesday because the next one is off of L’Enfant Plaza.

July 18, 2007

This interview went way better than the other one because I did not have to hike 20 minutes to and from the appointment (Sidebar: DC Mayor Adrian Fenty was at the Greenleaf Recreational Center, the very one I pass en route to my interview, to endorse Barack Obama. How cool was that! At least there was not a tragedy. :). After my afternoon break, I will type and mail my thank you letters.

July 25, 2007

The interviewer gave me the creeps during our interview. I did not want to work for him because he gave weird pauses and openly challenged my decision to become an Economist with “When do you think you determine a raise? (Hey, watch already!). I answered all of his questions but that was the second time that I felt that the interview was confrontational. However, regarding the regression analysis, I gave him an advanced answer which brought me back into form. At the conclusion of the interview, he told me that he wanted a cleaner version of my resume besides what USAJOBS gave him. Afterward I sent him a copy then I divulged all of the goodies to my friend who called during the interview and left a voicemail.

Opportunity Journal Entry #10: Transferring

During the http://www.blogger.com/ snafu, a lot of opportunity has come my way. I have lined up interviews at both the Washington, DC and Cleveland, Ohio educational opportunity centers to review my options. The first meeting produced an extremely unlikely outcome: applying to the DC state college. Please read the passage below:

July 9, 2007

Initially I thought that the DC EOC meeting was nearly a huge waste of my time because the counselor already told me what I’ve already known about researching scholarships. However, during this time I contemplated about whether or not to attend AU because my goal was to complete my master’s thesis and if I cannot do this then I would enroll at the state school and reviewed my options. Yet, the professor was tenured professor so I would remain here (I had just emailed her about her research specialties because I wanted to get as many references as possible. Once again, it looked like I might be taking three courses this summer in order to assemble my panel.

July 10, 2007

Last night I wrote out my plan to drop AU because it offered me an opportunity to conduct research and saved me a lot of money and grief. My AU advisor emailed me about meeting to which I responded that I could see her next Tuesday at 11:30am. By then I would had requested all of my transcripts. Since my transcript request had not gone through because the address was not changed, I’d probably would have to submit it by mail or fax. Well, at least I should receive it by late July well ahead of the August 2nd, deadline. I will be accepted!

Traveling to the state college helped me a lot especially when my financial aid counselor told me that it had not processed fall aid yet. Immediately upon returning to my office, I filed my finanical aid and added the school. Therefore, by next week, the school should receive it and my aid can be calculated. In addition, I spoke to the scholarship coordinator and left a voicemail for the person who has the foundation scholarship applications. Having returned from typing thank you letters, I realized the abundance of opportunity available. Now I will cancel my attendance at tomorrow’s Toastmasters meeting because I needed to meet with Edna to obtain those scholarship applications. This was important besides my next speech was within two weeks!

The divisional manager emailed me saying that his boss approved the majority of my fall tuition grant which I was grateful for but if I did not receive a satisfactory answer from Professor Reynolds regarding my master’s thesis then I would resubmit my training request. Since my entire academic year costs $3,000, of course, they would approve this! :)

July 11, 2007

I am putting everything together. During this time, I will obtain more information, prepare my transfer credit defense by copying syllabi and aligning them with the state college's courses, and creating a budget to pay for all of my books even though the agency will pay for it.

During my commute, I initially thought about taking a couple of CLEP courses (specifically American history) to save money. Then I realized that this method could had been used to compensate for the lack of transfer credit. My goal was to graduate in 2009 debt free just in time for Harvard! Furthermore, I will register for either an independent study or a research seminar every semester to strengthen my analytical ability and publish material. By graduation, I will have eight papers. Ask Dr. Steadman about taking these courses each semester.

This three-day saga is far from over but it has taught me the importance of resiliency (the meeting never materialized because I was in a meeting when she called), time management, and keeping my eyes peeled for all future opportunities such as next week's slate of events. I will keep you posted!

Drive

Drive (v.t.): to force to go; push forward; impel; to force to work, usually to excess.

Genealogy fuels my drive to outperform everyone. It’s the reason behind applying for GS-11 Economist positions because I cannot be stopped! This drive propels me to a BA, London, MBA and traveling numerous times to take both the BEA and BLS Economist assessment exams multiple times.

During these moments, doubt often crept into my mind especially while working temporary jobs because taking off work meant losing money. However, I had this vision to become an Economist. This conviction is similar to Robert Kiyoshi who slept on friends’ couches while amassing his empire; and, after everything that had happened to me I would not exchange any hardships because the setback made me stronger producing a steely resolve directly attributed to my drive.

Furthermore, I am taking a more active role in assembling my master’s thesis because if I am paying that kind of money then I will research my thesis! I’ve called the secretary about who has taught ECON 505 (it happen to be an adjunct faculty who hasn’t taught at AU). Disappointed I tell her my frustration and she asks if I have an advisor to which I respond No. She then tells me that my advisor is Professor Reynolds whom I’ll email because haste makes waste.

Career in Motion

I have completed my component and remembered yesterday’s journal entry about being grateful for the opportunity to work as an Economist. Within economics as one of the hottest majors around and there are only 500 slots available, therefore, I am mindful of the fact that I have this plum position and am working in my major!

Good news: Another agency has deemed me best qualified both the its domestic and merit economist positions meaning that I should receive an interview by mid-July. I am so happy because by the end of July I will have at least three economist offers.

The Making of a Mentor

I was so happy to have met one of the Cleveland State University Urban Affairs DC Seminar yesterday at the alumni event because it enabled me to realize that I possessed the ability to become a mentor. During our conversation I asked her the group's composition and she commented that this year was evenly split between undergraduates and graduates (There were even two were PhD students!). Then I inquired if any one of them wanted to work in DC to she replied yes. I told her about USAJOBS, the federal government's job site in addition to several others. She gave me her business card and throughout last night and earlier this morning, I located resources to help her Urban Affairs students acquire jobs and schooling. This meeting allowed me to use my prior research knowledge of obtaining greater Cleveland higher educational resources for poor, first-generation college students into action. Though I supplied advice, personally, staying and working in Cleveland then relocating to Washington, DC would be better because they would had acquired the requisite experience and skills to excel. That was how I obtained my economist position. As a graduate student I worked as an Information Officer with the Cuyahoga Support Enforcement Agency honing my Medicare and food stamps transfer skills. When I relocated to Washington, DC to work as an economist in the transfer payment section, I hit the ground running!

Who Defines Classiness?

Diana Ross’ comments while receiving the BET Lifetime Achievement Award about being classy are timely and important but I am concerned about what outside forces compromising the art form. Yes, I have never sagged my pants, called myself a nigger, or acted immature but we, the rap crowd has to make the decision not someone else. Also I feel that Al Sharpton’s comments about the marketplace are ill-fitted because there are many positive forces such as Kanye and Common who will be coming out with albums. We must control our communities’ dialog! Furthermore, class is relative because how can you hail from the projects and spent time incarcerated exude upper-middle class sensibilities? I am a member of an upper-class invitation-only organization and it would never have thought to invite her to attend our annual convention. Finally, it is no mistake that the black scholarship fund honored Aretha instead of Diana Ross because Aretha's father graduated from LeMoyne College, an HBCU, while Diana was raised in the notorious Brewster Projects!

Escalating

I awoke late because I did set my alarm clock. Also something happened to my tv around 1am.
Throughout this morning, I thought about being a mentor and what advice I would give to the Urban Studies students. A woman next to me had the Washington Center Internship bag which gave me a starting point. I, too, interned there and this experience gave me the assurance that I could become an economist.

Since I am 29 years old and most of these students are in their twenties, I can relate to them. Actually I feel that serving as a mentor for TWC would help me gain clarity on my life’s purpose. Motivating and encouraging people are important. Plus I like to distribute positive energy (as I have done earlier this morning when Uncle Tom posts something extremely mean and disheartening about blacks having a lower graduation rate.). His negative post pushes me to graduate from American University now because I refuse to be stereotyped! (For the record, another blogger came right after him and posted the "outperforming" quote, thereby, making me feel so much better. And, I need it because...

I have made and read two ignorant black women and this is not even noon! First, during my morning break, I gave this young woman directions to Strayer college. When we met again after my stroll, and upset that she had received dollar coins yelled at the hot dog man saying that “She had to work hard for her money and that she was not one of those people with the things around their heads.” Then whispered into my ear that “We were not white.” Oh Lord! Afterward, I read Essence’s interview with Monique who was extremely ignorant proclaiming that the word nigger has not meaning; and, when she got to heaven that is what she would call her ancestors. The cherry on top was that she proclaimed black people as too sensitive (Wait a minute! Monique calling us ignorant. She accepted the word fat so did that make her a fat, black nigger?). That’s ignorant! Why me?

The thing that got me was Monique’s accusing black people about being too sensitive. She made this remark about why we should stop worrying about who was calling us nigger (My problem was her ignorance!) and focus on improving our crumbling schools (With that kind of vocabulary she displayed, that was the reason why so many fell through the cracks). What a cop out!

It is stuff like this that cannot be ignored! Besides, I feel that this pervasive ignorance will not uplift anyone especially in the black community! Okay, I confess that at times I can get sensitive but this is ridiculous! This is not humorous!

Regardless, of their narrow-mindedness, I still push on, escalating to a higher station, and more moral clarity in life!

The Right Season

Since there are too many scheduling problems, I will not be traveling to Brazil during my birthday after all. However, I will travel during fall break. This saves me over $1263 which, I will save. Now I will book my Cleveland trip (but, of course, I will still call Ingenuity Cleveland and ask for packages.) and not fear any budgetary problems.

When I decided that this was not going to work, there was neither anger nor bitterness just the acceptance that this was not the right season. Furthermore, this indifference was directly attributed to financial empowerment. Since I established an emergency fund, there was no panic. Moreover, recent conversations with my family illuminated why I did not have to measure up to anyone. I had was the torchbearer and that was okay with me.

Opportunity Journal Entry #9: Moving On Up

I have been approved for my apartment! I am so happy because the search is over (although I am still looking at other apartments within the Friendship Heights area for price comparison purposes.). The rent is only $15 more than my current residence plus I do not have to spend any transportation money and can walk to the grocery store. That's cost savings. The lower rent allows me to afford furniture, a return trip to Cleveland, and my NBMBAA conference. I must admit that sitting in the apartment manager's office completing the paperwork without fear of my denied because of bad credit is liberating!

Now for some not so great news: Dropping out of mathematical methods for economists this summer, the AU course conflicts with UDC's calculus II and III meaning that this would have to wait until Spring 2008. Normally, this would have been disappointing, however, this presented another opportunity to take my time with calculus I and take calculus II at USDA since my Wednesdays are free. Also, it will allow me to save money which is my goal and I am still in contention of applying for a doctoral program just in case I exhaust all options here at AU.

Reading Educational Pathways magazine has inspired me to soar higher and not to waste time. Though I have always placed an extremely high premium on education (It's the reason why I am an economist today.), the articles highlighting black firsts in education motivated me to continue my educational pursuit with vigor! Now I have set some new achievement goals:

Complete AU by next year
Complete calculus III by first summer session
Complete my master's thesis (That's why I am in the MA program)
Retain my Omicron Delta Epsilon honor society distinction
Win one research scholarship

These goals will equip me with the necessary tools to be successfully both personally and professionally.

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