She Strengthens

From Museum to Coffee Shop: A Humbling Journey

As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded that life is full of unexpected twists and turns. From the thrill of landing my first job as a Starbucks barista at 17 to pursuing a prestigious career in museums, I’ve experienced a rollercoaster of emotions and lessons.

The Dream Job That Wasn’t

After graduating summa cum laude and earning my MA from a renowned institution, I thought I had it all figured out. I landed a full-time job at one of the country’s most well-known art museums, only to find myself back behind the coffee counter a few years later. The irony isn’t lost on me – I’m now working 60-hour weeks, with 14-hour days and no weekends off.

The Perfect Storm

So, how did I end up here? Looking back, about 70% of the factors that led to this situation are my own doing. During grad school, I was forbidden from working due to my course load and unpaid internships. This meant relying on student loans and credit cards to make ends meet, a recipe for financial disaster. My unhealthy relationship with money, love of gift-giving, and tendency to spend my feelings didn’t help.

A Stroke of Luck

My last internship turned into a full-time job, for which I’m grateful. However, my partner and I struggled to find jobs and an apartment in our new city. We applied to over 30 positions without a single response, until I landed a job I didn’t even directly apply for. It was a stroke of luck, but it didn’t solve our financial woes.

The Wake-Up Call

When my partner’s part-time job ended abruptly, we were left terrified about our livelihood. I had to rely on credit cards to support us both, which made me realize that I had no choice but to return to my old job as a barista. It’s a humbling experience, but I’m grateful for the flexibility and enjoyable break from my “real” job.

Finding a Way Forward

I’ve been using You Need a Budget (YNAB) daily for a few months, and it’s helped me improve my spending habits and plan for our future. My partner is tirelessly applying to jobs, and we’re hopeful that we can return to financial parity soon. I’m exhausted, anxious, and still learning to cope without my former mechanisms, but I’m determined to atone for my past mistakes and build a more stable future.

A Lesson in Humility

This experience has taught me a powerful lesson in humility. Just because I have degrees and a “respectable” job doesn’t mean I’m above anyone in the service industry. It’s a reminder that life can be unpredictable, and we must be prepared to adapt and learn from our mistakes.

A Message of Hope

If you’re going through a similar struggle, I hope my story offers a glimmer of hope. Remember that this too shall pass, and it’s an opportunity to learn and grow. With determination and perseverance, we can overcome even the toughest challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.