Summer has started and I will not lie; I used the first week after classes ended to just veg out and relax. I needed to give my brain a break.
After my week off, I jumped into high gear and began my job search. I currently have two jobs for the summer and am looking for job number three. It may seem a bit much, but I am the type of person that likes to keep busy. I am working these jobs, not just to keep busy, but also to save up enough money to live comfortably during the school year and pay for my certification tests. I postponed my guided practice course for financial obligations that would keep me from completing my certification exams in time.
So far my time in the MAT@USC program has been anything less than traditional, but for an adult in the real world with family obligations; its been realistic. The flexibility of the MAT@USC program has allowed my educational experience to adjust and fit my lifestyle, which is something I am truly thankful for.
So as you can see, these jobs serve dual purposes. I chose to find jobs that allowed me to work with children and to also work in a social environment. I work every other day, but on my off days I decided to take on a tutoring job and work with young children. So far, I can honestly say its been hard work, but I’m loving my summer. Over the past month and a half, I have learned things about myself and focused more on my future goals.
July 4th weekend was my first opportunity to relax and enjoy some summertime fun. Having those four days of down time allowed me recover and rejuvenate my body and mind. Now, a few weeks later, I’ve been back to work, I see that I have two more months to enjoy myself and make things happen. As I continue my summer adventures, I just continue to think “Whats Next?” Whatever is next; I look forward to the challenge. 
