I have already logged a long and varied work history. There were significant moments and successes along the way, some stand out more than others. Possibly one of the most significant in the last 10 years, started out as a Help Desk Operator at Pepperdine University (some uniqueness to go along with this, I was the first official and dedicated Help Desk Operator, while others had been facilitating that role on a part-time basis). As the Organization was evaluating long-term Call Tracking solutions, they hit on a product from Frontrange Solutions, named HEAT (Helpdesk Electronic Automated Tracking). We began using this product (setup by my direct manager) late 1999. In early 2000 my manager asked if I would go to Colorado Springs for training in the product so that I could serve as a backup to him. Over time, I took on more responsibilities of the software, and became the primary Administrator (with the manager still performing backup responsibilities if I was not able to). I was sent to more advanced Administrator-level training for the product and became the expert, and the point person on the application, including providing new-user training as well as more advanced customized training. I eventually registered myself to take the Frontrange Administrator certification exam, which I passed. I unfortunately exhausted my growth opportunities at Pepperdine University and other advancement did not make itself too readily available. I had inquired with up to 6 HEAT Administrator positions all over the country during 2006 and came up empty (which made absolutely no sense to me). I really wanted to leave So Cal, especially as I was travelling to Seattle at least once or twice a year to visit my brother over the last 4-5 years, and re-locate if any opportunity presented itself. By and large I wasn't too optimistic about my work opportunities in Washington. Really, by adding one line to my resume probably changed everything. I had already been talking with Volt Technical Services regarding a few different opportunities, when they noticed (my resume addition) being able to apeak, read and write German fluently. This set me apart and they got me scheduled to speak by phone with a manager, then visit Microsoft in person. And the past year was spent working at Microsoft. I knew up front that there was a definite end point in this position. And, I have also been uncertain where the path would take me next. Besides looking for work generally speaking, I have not been certain regarding my future prospects. One option I have been considering is going back to school full-time. But, then the "What do I study?" dilemma comes up (meaning, too many options and not enough clear direction). Although my prospects as HEAT Administrator from last year did not lead me anywhere, I decided I would give this background one more shot. I would really hate to have lived through this part of my background and not find that there is something more to it. My first stop was the company job board. It just so happened that they had posted a Technical Analyst position for which I was qualified. I received a phone call a few days later, and began a conversation about the Technical Analyst position. In addition, the HR contact person thought I might also be qualified for an upcoming HEAT Consultant position that would be opening soon. After several interviews for the Technical Analyst position, I was scheduled for a phone interview on the Consultant position as well. I left that interview as "Oh my gosh, they want me to work for them!!" Things get even better when they fly me out, house me and dine me on their own bill so that I can meet them (or so that they can personally meet me). Although I have not yet received the official letter of work offer it is my understanding that the company is working in that direction. I also found out that they are trying to fill two positions, making me a near-guaranteed candidate for the position. It is interesting for me to see how things come back around. | 
