I ended last month’s post by suggesting to those with independent contracting jobs to go out and enjoy daytime jaunts. For the first time in years, I have had time to buy books and actually read them, be a lady that lunches, go to the gym as often as I can muster the enthusiasm to do so, go on weekend snowboarding trips, and shop for various things that I managed to convince myself I “need.”

The problem with these daytime jaunts is that often, they require money—something that’s probably sparse if you are unemployed, doing contract work, or just not getting paid enough at your firm.  I recently began thinking about what I would do if I don’t get an offer from the firm I am doing contract work for soon, since my checking account is quickly shrinking and I can’t keep calling my student loan company to ask for a loan deferral.  

Obviously I would keep on applying to jobs, but, the time has come: I am going to have to get a part-time job.  I am lucky enough to be staying with my parents for the time being, but, I draw the line at asking for money to go grab a drink with friends.  I started to feel depressed thinking about the various part-time jobs that I’m qualified for when I realized I’d be competing with 16 year olds for these jobs.

Then, I was reminded of California’s Chief Justice—Tani Cantil-Sakauye—the first ever Asian-American woman, and the second woman to serve as the state’s Chief Justice. Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye graduated from my law school alma mater, UC Davis School of Law.  Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye also graduated during a rough job market, and worked as a cocktail waitress and blackjack dealer post-law school before working with the Sacramento County D.A.’s office.  This is just one example of someone who took an alternative path to get where she was going, and who ended up doing great things.

So, I have a J.D., and I’ll be applying for part time jobs to hold me over until I have full-time gainful employment. Maybe I’ll apply to work as a barista, bartender, tutor, or server somewhere. If you’re in a position similar to mine, take Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye’s story to heart. There isn’t only one way to get where you are going.