Yesterday I got "RIF"ed. This stands for a reduction in force. I've been reduced. Essentially, my contract did not get renewed for the following school year due to the massive budget cuts that the state and school districts are facing. We are 25 million dollars in debt, equating to job loss and as a result the quality of education in Arizona continues to fall. Last year the Italian department was almost completely cut from my university. This year I lost a job. When will these cuts to education stop or slow down? I am feeling the full impact of our depressing economy and convoluted government. I am confused, I am sad and stranger still I am a little bit relieved, but only on a personal level.
Personally I am a little bit glad that my position will no longer be available to me next year. I hope that this this compels me to delve even further into my job pursuit. While it is worrisome to be without benefits, insurance and an income it is also motivating and stimulating.
I was "RIF"ed at ASU over a year ago. That's how I wound up back in Tucson (Pima was hiring). It was an across the board cut of anyone with my "title" regardless of departmental need. It was not a very fun process to go through and I'm very sorry that it has happened to you.
ReplyDeleteBe that as it may, I had a similar feeling at the time of being cautiously optimistic (plus, I really hated my boss and everybody told me to leave while I could) and in the end it did work out for the best.
For someone with your abilities and enthusiasm I'm sure you'll soon find something both rewarding and enjoyable... or at the very least tolerable... until you find something rewarding and enjoyable. It will come.