Thoughts on the Journey

I've mused oh-so-many times on here (and countless more times to my husband) about my vocation -basically seeking the answer to the question: what am I supposed to do with my life?

Last year, I probably checked several dozen books out of the "Careers" section of the library, and have taken a smattering of personality tests, interest inventories, and "what career fits your personality?" tests. Since I was in tenth grade, I've been fascinated with the idea of vocation- what do you do with you life?

{Let me pause for a moment to acknowledge that I recognize that this is a privilege to be able to wrestle with my "calling" and where my skills fit a need and where I'll be most fulfilled - many people do not get to have such choices. I don't want to come off as a spoiled girl - complaining about the angst that accompanies this wonderful gift of choice.}

I've shared a brief history of how I got to where I am, but I think I've started to decide some things.

It was only after my strange fixation with ranking things in Excel....



And my wonderful class...

[exhibit a: elements and priciples of art]

(clockwise from top left: 3 projects, color, rhythm, and contrast)

[exhibit b: flier redos]

[exhibit c: personal flier for work]

And a conversation in my design class...

Teacher: You have a very interesting style...where did you go to school?

Me (trying to determine if I'm being insulted..): Uh...the University of Dayton.

Teacher: And what was your degree in?

Me: Education and religion studies.... (still unsure where this is going)

Teacher: Did you ever take any art or desgin classes? I'm wondering where your design style comes from.

Me: No...I mean, I was the yearbook and newspaper editor in high school.

Teacher: I'm just asking because you have a very advanced sense of layout and design for this level of class. It's a good thing - a very good thing. You don't normally see this sort of design without training.

Me: (Passing out with happiness. And quickly calling Mike after class to squeal that "ohmigosh,someoneinthindustrythinksi'vegottalent!squeee!")

Well, friends - it's decided. I'm going to pursue graphic design. Even as I type those words, I'm excited. Pinch me. Seriously, I have secretly wanted to be able to say that for a long time...but I've always felt like it's such a far stretch from my degrees and my past jobs that people would think it's ridiculous.

I've also worried that perhaps it's not altruistic enough to make me happy - I'm not contributing to the community in the same way teaching does. But you know what? A happy Ashley contributes a whole lot more positive energy to the world than a burnt out, grumpy Ashley.

I'm on cloud nine with excitement, I'm more sure of this than I've ever been of any career path, and I'm going to start figuring out how to make! this! happen! Any advice?