Wonder of Wonders, Miracle of Miracles

Remember my last post? About practicing for what you want and not taking yourself out of the running? This week has been a surreal confirmation of just how powerful that kind of thinking, coupled with action, can be.

The position that I was applying for during the in-class interview was assistant manager in the BYU QA lab. I applied for the actual job at the last minute, knowing the position was not open to seniors such as myself. I was excited to gain some more interview practice to help me in my future job search. I prepped my PAR stories, created a list of ways I envisioned improving the lab, and reviewed my cover letter.

The actual interview was a really enjoyable experience. I used Professor Middleton's advice and infused humor into the conversation to help set a comfortable mood. 

When asked what my least favorite part of working in the lab is, I shared an experience of slicing my finger on a jagged piece of metal during a product test. This began a roundtable of lab accident stories, with each interviewer sharing multiple similar experiences. The conversation created a nice ice breaker; I later learned that one of the other candidates almost passed out because they forgot to breath. The managers were still a bit on edge from the experience, so showing that I felt at ease in the situation allowed them to relax as well.

The next morning I received an email that began with "I am pleased to inform you ..."

I didn't need to read the rest of the email. I could not believe that I had received the position that I have wanted for the past year, but almost didn't apply for because I thought myself unqualified. I am absolutely thrilled to have a chance to improve the lab that I love working in so much, and to add some leadership experience to my resume before I graduate.

This experience furthered my belief that sometimes the only thing standing between me and what I want is my own self-doubt. Not every application results in an offer, or even an interview. But you never know where those experiences will take you until you get out of your own way and give it your best shot.