let me clarify

GP left a comment the other day suggesting that I look into any and all options...perhaps that may lead to something bigger and better down the line. Thanks for the note, GP. :) You're right, and I have been looking into everything, trust me. I used to have "standards" when I first began my job search, but I tossed those out a while ago, and I've put "picky" on the shelf.

I have applied to law clerk positions, front desk positions, legal assistant positions, and even the occasional non-legal positions at companies with good reputations. I have applied to part-time, intern, contract, temporary, and as-needed-basis positions. Temp agencies, placement agencies, government agencies, non-profit agencies - I've hit them all. Most never get back to me. I've asked professors, previous employers, friends, friends of friends, and even perfect strangers whether they know of any open positions related to law. I've looked in northern, southern, and yes, even central California...since beggars can't be choosers these days. And let's face it, I've become a beggar.

But wait, there's more. I have even applied to...brace yourselves...non-paid jobs and have been rejected. Gasp! I know. There's nothing more belittling.

Yet, after what feels like hundreds of resumes and cover letters sent, I still have nothing. Nothing, nothing, nothing.

I'm either over-qualified and those employers know I will leave if I should get an opportunity elsewhere, or I'm not as qualified as other applicants. How do I compete with people that have have been laid off from big firms, or have been practicing for a couple years and are now willing to take a pay cut?

There doesn't seem to be any room for the entry level attorney these days. I've applied to numerous entry level associate positions that require experience. Does that make any sense? Bottom line, I think those employers are looking for experienced attorneys who are willing to take entry level salaries.

Still, I keep chugging along, every single day.

To change topics, I received a comment on salt on the wound regarding my mom's brilliant statement that perhaps I should have a baby. I guess the subject hits a chord with people, not just the commenter, after the recent birth of the octuplets. After I read the comment, for a second, I felt a little offended.

The reason I can go this long without paid work is because I am quite fortunate in many ways. I do have a disgusting amount of law school loans that have been taken care of for now. My desire to be employed is not because I'm in need of money. Although, don't get me wrong, I'd love a salary. I want to work simply because I want to work! I want to be productive, use my brain, and be recognized for the things I've accomplished.

If I wanted to, I could start a family and still be financially secure. Yes, my mom says all sorts of crazy things. I'll be the first to admit that. She would never suggest that I have a baby if we weren't able to take care of one in all respects, financially, emotionally, physically, etc. I'm a bit insulted that someone could assume that because I don't work, I'd be or am on welfare.