Hello, Wisconsin!

 A few weeks ago, I flew out to Madison for a job interview at Epic, a company that creates and sells software that allows hospitals and clinics to simplify the process of storing and accessing medical records. I interviewed for the position of Project Manager, a member of the team that guides clients through the implementation process.

I stayed downtown, at the Hilton, and dined at NoStrano with several other recruits. Although it was windy and cold, the city was clean, quiet, and everyone was friendly. I found everyone at Epic headquarters amiable too.

Epic headquarters were surprisingly similar to a college campus -- lots of energy, lots of young people, and a bright and fun environment. I especially enjoyed the sculptures, paintings, and art installations prominently placed throughout the hallways, offices and thruways, all created by local artists.  It seems like a great place to work, and I have only one negative comment: I missed the presence of more mature workers, who bring valuable wisdom and life experience to the office.

While I didn't get the job, I learned quite a bit through the interview process. Here are a few reflections worth sharing:

 1. I'm ready to relocate. I wasn't sure if I wanted to leave the Boston area, especially for a job. Relocating temporarily for graduate school is something I never questioned. With graduate school, you pay or receive a scholarship to attend, and you are aware of the program's duration. It's more difficult for me to accept the idea of relocating for work, especially for a new company and a new position. All sorts of questions come to mind: What if I move, but lose my job when the company decides to downsize? What if I hate the new job, but have just spent several thousand dollars to move and rent an apartment, rent a parking space, and buy a pass for public transportation? Am I comfortable with the idea of sorting and selling some of my possessions to facilitate my relocation?

There are so many unknowns involved in relocating to a new city for an open-ended adventure. While interviewing at Epic, I had to answer these questions, and I surprised myself with the answers. It's strange, but I've learned that I value adventure over comfort, and really do hold my possessions loosely. My late grandmother's furniture is something I treasure, but I won't allow it to burden me or impede my desire to grow and succeed. After my time at Epic, I believe I could successfully reestablish myself in a new state or a new country, without a class schedule or projected graduation date.


2. It's got to be fashion. There were so many elements to the project manager role that appealed to me. I appreciated the autonomy, the possible challenges (and chances for great success), and the opportunity to teach others and help them succeed. I've always enjoyed leadership roles, and I thought that this position would be a great way to expand and further develop my skill set. But while I was responding to interviewers' questions, a small voice kept repeating, "This will be great for a few years, and then...fashion." I've tried so hard to be happy in an office job, and have thought that more responsibility or the possibility of rising to a management position might finally make me feel content.  I think it's got be fashion. Or one heck of a challenge, because I always find work so monotonous.

3. Peter Thomas Roth products are fabulous! Complements of the Hilton, I have now used Roth's shampoo, conditioner, facial bar, and massage bar. Packed full of nutrients and in aesthetically pleasing packaging, Roth's products added to the fun of a free flight across the country, free meals, and a free night's rest in a very comfortable hotel bed. Thanks, Epic!