Why I should listen to my mother
My mom is always telling me to keep my eyes open: for the empty space in a crowded parking lot, when I would complain about the lack of suitors for high school dances, as I stressed about finding a job post-graduation. She’s constantly nagging reminding me to keep my options open, to never get stuck in a rut, to think outside the box. (She also tells me not use clichés, but clearly I don’t listen.)
When I decided to quit my job and move to France, my mom told me to keep my eyes open for possible opportunities that would play to my strengths: writing, travel, that “blogging thing.” So I did what I usually do when my mom tells me something: smiled, nodded and continued on my merry way.
But one Twitter #FollowFriday I stumbled across @DIWYY. Do It While You’re Young is the leading site for women 18 to 35 years old who want to travel, study, work or volunteer abroad. The Web site–particularly its affiliation with Contiki–caught my eye, and so on a whim I responded to an inquiry for travel writers.
One of the co-founders lived in the South Bay Area too, so we met for coffee and hit it off. Turns out DIWYY was looking for some PR and social media help–my area of expertise! After a few more meetings, DIWYY hired me as its first Online Community Manager.
Even though it won’t provide me with the peace of mind like a fat paycheck and health insurance usually do, I’m stoked for the opportunity. Today is my last official day at Voce Communications (a job that I absolutely loved and an agency I’d highly recommend), and I wasn’t sure if I even wanted to find another job States-side. However, I’m quite looking forward to working with two women who have literally been EVERYWHERE (including Antarctica!). Kristina and Jerri are savvy travelers and super passionate about DIWYY, and their enthuasiasm has already hooked me.
And, of course, my mom was right. I usually hate it when that happens, but this time…I might just give her a hug and say thank you for the new job!
