A Different Kind of Hunt

[WebleyGreene455]

Folks of AH,

This is a difficult topic for me to bring up but I think it'll help me to do it.

In May my father died after around a month of being in and out of the hospital, the poorest excuse for a physical rehab facility I've ever seen, and a couple of weeks in hospice. Not long after, we had to place my mother in assisted living due to her increasing dementia/Alzheimer's. We have to sell the house in which they, and I, have lived for the past thirty-one years. My living situation is going to be... different for a while, once it's sold. And the other big thing is, I need a job.

I have a bachelor's degree in history with interest in military history in particular. I love art history and architectural history, though I have no degree in them. Anthropology, sociology (to an extent), archaeology and paleontology are likewise interests but outside of college courses I have little experience in those fields.

Firearms, weaponry, and militaria are a passion and I'd be delighted to work in a capacity where I could be around them.

I've looked at a couple of possibilities here in my hometown, and I'm going to keep looking, but I'm not finding a lot. I have an idea, though. I would really like to apply for a job with the federal government or the DOD, in particular as an analyst. I think I could do well in that field. I seem to be qualified for it, although my foreign language skills are a bit lacking; those aren't a requirement, though. It would probably necessitate moving to a different state but logistics aside, I'm alright with that. The thing is, I'm having anxiety issues. I'm highly stressed right now. And in all honesty, the application process intimidates me. If anyone on here has gone through the federal hiring process and can give me advice on how it goes, what to expect, etc, or can suggest departments where my interests could be put to good use, please let me know and perhaps I'll push through the problem.

On the other hand, if anyone has suggestions for different jobs where my interests and skills could be applicable, I'd appreciate those too. One I've found is as a tour guide in a Antebellum house/museum here in town; that's not exactly my number one coveted job but I could do it. I've looked at the park service but locally there's nothing available. There are a couple more museums I can check with as well. And I'm fine with leaving town or even leaving Georgia, but there are admittedly a couple of problems regarding that which i need to work on as well.

I've talked to friends, I've talked to family, and now I'm reaching out here. I need help figuring out a clearer road without stressing so much over things that my anxiety and depression get the better of me.

~~W.G.455

 

[BnC 04]

PM sent

 

[Tundra Tiger]

You probably already know this: USA Jobs. I work for the federal government. Best of wishes in your searches.

 

[Carson]

You may want to start by getting a job, any job. Manual labor, driving, something. Doing something productive could help with anxiety and depression. Having a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day can be very rewarding. Exercising also helps me get in a good mental state. You could also try getting plugged into your local community. Like attending a church and volunteering for different things. This will do 2 things. It will build your contacts for jobs, and it will likely help your mental health. We humans need to be connected to others - and not just online. I'm not a doctor, but I am someone who has had to work to improve my mental state. I sometimes listen to this podcast by John Deloney. He's got good stuff about improving mental health

Just to be super honest, those federal jobs can be very very hard to get. You don't want to pause your life waiting for one of those. Apply to them, but be working on other avenues.

 

[sureshot375]

I’m sorry to hear about your father and your mother. It’s a difficult part of life.

What part of Georgia are you in? How old are you? Do you have any previous work experience ?

I think you may need to broaden your search.
There aren’t many jobs out there in the world of firearms and militaria history. Otherwise just about everyone in the world is hiring. Have you thought about working in a law office? Most of the lawyers I know need help and will provide some on the job training if you have decent organization and computer skills.

 

[375Fox]

This isn’t answer you asked for but I’d recommend you read the book “peak performance principles for high achievers.” The book is about using comfort as an excuse to not advance yourself. It was best book I’ve had opportunity to read.

 

[CraigV]

WG 455,

Sorry to hear about your loss and situation.

Going to be really honest, and it may sting - sorry.

What qualifications other than school might you have? And if I read this correctly, you've lived at home all/most of this time, and you're 31-ish?

1st, totally agree with Carson above. Get your mind and body straight 1st. You'll appeciate it, and employers can pick up on "vibes".

2nd. USAJOBS is the source for federal jobs, but 99% of them are "hard-wired" for someone either already in the system, or soon to retire form the Military. It's nepotism at it's finest. Being a former federal employee - no one could believe I got the job I got, because I was an outsider - I quickly learned about the system. Probably the toughest job market to crack into.

Based on what you wrote, I wouldn't hire you as an analyst, no background or supporting skills. Just because you enjoy weaponry and military doesn't mean you're qualified.

If you do have skills that were not mentioned, then good, but still un-likely. You're best route would be to try one of the many Govt contracting companies. They usually have openings for something somewhere, and if you're good at your job, and the Gov reps like you, then, when/if a Fed position comes open, you'll get consideration.

 

[Laura AK64north]

Firearms, weaponry, and militaria are a passion and I'd be delighted to work in a capacity where I could be around them.

WG455,

I am so sad to hear of your loss. You have a lot on your mind right now. Give yourself time to settle into some clarity.

The statement you wrote above caught my eye. If you are interested in a career involved with firearms perhaps start out with a certification of your skills. You never know how far you will go and where you will use this education.

I would start by looking at the American Gunsmith website: https://americangunsmith.info/

Specifically, look at: https://americangunsmith.info/school-service/

A few of the schools listed are also endorsed by the NRA. Yavapai College Gunsmithing School, Trinidad State Junior College, Sonoran Desert Institute, Lassen Community College, and more that are listed on that web page--Montgomery, Murray State.

I gave away my American Gunsmith copy of the issue providing information on the NRA-approved schools, but I discussed it on a program I do back in July 2021. If you call or write to the American Gunsmith organization, I am sure they can tell you which month around that date the article was published--then find a copy. Investigate those schools. Each offers a specialized curriculum aside from the basics.

The NRA-approved gunsmith schools have certain requirements and are said to have a good track record for students finding employment after graduating. Firearms manufacturing companies in the United States provide support to these schools. It is to their benefit to make sure graduates learn what is needed to move into design and production management in their companies because they recruit from these schools.

You'll need to do your own research, but some of these schools provide scholarships, as well as accept funding from other programs, including vocational rehabilitation programs. Check if they will help you with a work/study program.

A top-tier gunsmith school might help you reach your goals sooner. I suspect a solid certification/degree will provide you with a way to enter the industry at a higher level and likely provide skills you can use should you want to be self-employed.

Take care of yourself. Laura

 

[Newboomer]

WG455,

I am so sad to hear of your loss. You have a lot on your mind right now. Give yourself time to settle into some clarity.

The statement you wrote above caught my eye. If you are interested in a career involved with firearms perhaps start out with a certification of your skills. You never know how far you will go and where you will use this education.

I would start by looking at the American Gunsmith website: https://americangunsmith.info/

Specifically, look at: https://americangunsmith.info/school-service/

A few of the schools listed are also endorsed by the NRA. Yavapai College Gunsmithing School, Trinidad State Junior College, Sonoran Desert Institute, Lassen Community College, and more that are listed on that web page--Montgomery, Murray State.

I gave away my American Gunsmith copy of the issue providing information on the NRA-approved schools, but I discussed it on a program I do back in July 2021. If you call or write to the American Gunsmith organization, I am sure they can tell you which month around that date the article was published--then find a copy. Investigate those schools. Each offers a specialized curriculum aside from the basics.

The NRA-approved gunsmith schools have certain requirements and are said to have a good track record for students finding employment after graduating. Firearms manufacturing companies in the United States provide support to these schools. It is to their benefit to make sure graduates learn what is needed to move into design and production management in their companies because they recruit from these schools.

You'll need to do your own research, but some of these schools provide scholarships, as well as accept funding from other programs, including vocational rehabilitation programs. Check if they will help you with a work/study program.

A top-tier gunsmith school might help you reach your goals sooner. I suspect a solid certification/degree will provide you with a way to enter the industry at a higher level and likely provide skills you can use should you want to be self-employed.

Take care of yourself. Laura

Sorry to hear about your losses. With your background in History have you thought of teaching or working in one of your fields through a college?

 

[Areaonereal]

High demand field now available with well above average income scale….CDL drivers needed throughout the US. Most large corporations require 1 year experience. Many Junior colleges offer classes and on hands instruction to secure that CDL and many employers reimburse the tuition. A History background is limiting in job openings. So look into alternative opportunities. Junior colleges offer opportunities in many trades including the medical fields. Always demand for specialties to the right person. Good luck

 

[BourbonTrail]

As stated above: I think getting a job, any job, is priority. Getting one that suits your life’s ambitions is easier to sort out if you are paying your bills.

To figure out what that dream job looks like: list out your skills, education, and interests and use that to comb through what’s out there. You need to be honest with yourself about what your long term, achievable goals are.

The application process is not something to be afraid of, it’s just a process. Rejection is part of that process. It should not be scary, the worst they can say is no. Eventually, someone will say yes. The fear is due to the uncertainty, but if you have a job that pays while you hunt for one you enjoy it helps tremendously. It took me 15+ years to find the job I enjoy, but I built my skills and my resume along the way. Be willing to work hard and get your hands dirty, and it will eventually pay off. My first job was working in a dog kennel, my current one is as a Principal Engineer.

Another suggestion, similar to @Laura AK64north , is that you should consider the skilled trades: getting certifications is quicker and simpler than going back to college (not to mention cheaper), and the work is rewarding and pays well. Electricians, plumbers, HVAC, and other skilled trades are always in high demand. Job security will be good to have, and the skills will be useful elsewhere.

Good luck.

 

[Jfet]

 

[supergrizzly]

Very few people in this world get to do what they want to do, follow their passion and MAKE A LIVING. If they did we would all be out hunting!! You need to pay bills, build wealth and work any job you can to do that. In your down time, you can pursue your "passion". I know quite a few people in their 30s that sit at home waiting for the door bell to ring with someone offering them a dream job. Its not going to happen. It is currently the best job market in years. Everyone is hiring. I know landscapers offering $30 and hour with benefits to cut grass and they can't get people. Thats called "opportunity". Take one of those jobs and maybe, during that time of building yourself up mentally, you will be one of those people that truly finds your passion and can build wealth and happiness from it. Good luck with your future and very sorry about your parents.

 

[Aaron.F]

Absolutely spot on video above. Get a job, any job, you will learn as you go, what you want to do. The days of staying in the same career for 40 years is basically over…and boring. Ask most anyone about there job and they will say it is boring, stressful, unfulfilling, whatever and they wish they were doing something different. Try everything and expand your skill set.

And the anxiety and depression, go see a doctor, they can help with this.

 

[Red Leg]

Mike Rowe - a national treasure. Profound wisdom.

Military analysts have jobs in essentially two places - the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). I do not count NSA or State because their requirements or either extremely technical or the product of a high end specialized education. CIA does recruit directly from some of the nation's best universities. Many of those recruits do go on to be analysts in the various technical and regional analytical departments. Those on the technical side will have BS and MS degrees from places like Caltech, University of Chicago, and MIT. POLMIL analysts may indeed have BA and MA degrees, but again, as college graduate entry candidates, they would represent some of the finest schools in the country.

You should also remember that you also would be competing against a fairly large cadre of retiring Majors, Lieutenant Colonels and Commanders every year who leave the service after 20 years. They often have vast technical or regional expertise. For instance, an army Foreign Area Office will have a 4/4 in a foreign language on his or her resume along with significant on the ground regional experience and a career's worth of real world tactical expertise. Moreover, those officers will likely have served multiple tours with DIA while on active duty, making the transition painless for both parties.

Regrettably, a BA degree and subject enthusiasm won't excite many recruiters.

So you have an important choice to make. Two examples.

An old schoolmate of mine has a political science degree from Memphis State. He then spent five or six years getting a MFA from University of New Mexico. He has made ends meet for nearly five decades taking wedding and baby pictures and working at Home Depot. He is old and bitter because lesser, dumber people somehow have done so much better than him.

My son dallied in college in political science until I became tired of it, and he then worked a number things from TSA to store security to construction. Finally, on his own, he went to a technical college about eight years ago. He finished a three-year med-tech program in two years and is now a highly respected med-tech field engineer for a major hospital group here in Texas. I would guess his annual salary is three-times my embittered school chum, and significantly better than an entry level billet in one of the agencies.

Your goal right now needs to be to find work. It should be work with a purpose. Purpose has nothing to do with passions. Purpose has to do with where you intend to be financially twenty years from now. That purpose should include a runway of increasing opportunity, responsibility, and compensation. In turn, that focus on purpose can give you the means to indulge a passion.

 

[WAB]

Have you considered the military? At 31 I believe you would still qualify for service.

 

[freefall]

Sign up with the IBEW. The guy tying the wires together is making more than anybody else on the job site.

 

[meigsbucks]

Sorry to hear of your loss Definitely a case of “When it rains, it pours”.
As @Carson stated, get a job, almost any job, to get income and get your mind in the right place. Continue your search for something you really want.
Sometimes, things work out differently than you anticipate. I too was educated in history. During college, I worked for a beverage store. After college, thru connections I made at the store, I began working for a beverage company. I planned on it being for about six months. I worked my way up and retired after 38 yrs. You never know.

 

[Flipper Dude]

Some good advice in this thread. From some guys that I bet are doing better than your average bear.

 

[CJW]

Around here I think that just about every contractor is looking for help. Be it finishing, general framing, roofing, etc. I would bet that if you spent the day making calls you could get a job. Outside job, decent to very good pay, go home tired and you won't have time to have anxiety. Spend your off days looking for something more to your liking.

You BA degree will also help with better paying jobs where a degree is required but doesn't necessarily have anything to do with the job you're applying for.

@WAB mentioned my first thought which is the military. I think the Air Force accepts up to the age of 36. You might get a good gig having a degree. Hell you could apply to be a chopper pilot in the Army if you have any interest in flying. I know that's stretching it but just a thought.

Anxiety is a bitch and having a sick family member doesn't help at all of course. Keep your mind and body active. Being outside always puts me in a different mood.

Good luck.