Hi! I am 29 years old, single, and I work at Wal-Mart as a cashier. I make a decent wage and live in a 2 bedroom, 1 bath house with a roommate, but I barely break even with the part-time hours that Wal-Mart gives me. Right now, I am actively searching for a new career.

Good news:

I have a degree from California State University, Chico in Economics - Option in Environmental Economics with a minor in Environmental Studies. I also have a Certificate of Completion for Account Clerk from Butte Community College. I am smart and somewhat familiar with computers. I have over 2 years of cash handling experience as a Wal-Mart cashier, which gives me people to talk to and some sales experience too. Currently, I am involved in Toastmasters International, a public speaking and leadership club and will be taking a class called "Individual Excellence" online to hone more of my skills.

Bad news:

Wal-Mart gives me CRAZY retail hours: morning, mid-shift, closing shift. My hours are never the same day after day. Thus, I have failed to show up for work or show up tardy (and the time I came in at 6am instead of 6pm only to be told I'm "too early" by the time clock) about every 3-4 months or so. I max out around 30 hours a week, which is barely enough money to pay all the bills. Even worse, they hired a cashier manager over me that is only 21 around 4 months ago. How humiliating. I am no longer in the running for a promotion for 6 at least another months (it was a year punishment) for a recent "coaching". They hired another gal for the customer service manager/supervisor spot that had only been there a few months instead of me. So... best thing for me to do is to take my knowledge and experience elsewhere where I can look forward to promotions.

Oh, I also live in a small rural area outside of Chico, CA about 2 hours away from Sacramento.

Man with a plan:

Right now, I am doing a thorough career search. I am applying to the banks since I qualify for most teller positions. These seem pretty promising, especially since I know a bit about finances and selling. I'm looking into government (public sector) jobs at all levels: federal, state, local, county. Postal jobs seem good, even though the exams may not be for a while. Green/environmental jobs are pretty nice due to my degree too. It's very frustrating though living in a small area where jobs are scarce, but the big city is not too far away. I'm not sure I can afford to move there due to the increased cost of living though.

Any other suggestions?

Thank you.

-Chicoman

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