After four grueling years in college, I earned a degree in Aquatic Science. Loved the work, but the money was like a pay check only much, much, much, smaller. So I took a job working for the Government. Home every night at the same time, paid holidays, short commute, and the only time I got dirty or broke a sweat was when a tree fell across my drive way.

A friend of mine informed me that he had a "chat" with a higher up at a large company. It seems they needed an Environmental Scientist. It couldn't be some one who went from School to college to work, they needed someone with diverse experience. So he asked if he could recommend me. Now I like my job, but they did say the key words, "Environmental Scientist." I thought "What the heck, I got some cash built up, I can take half a day off, meet some folks, see what they got."

The interview was just shy two hours, and since I had a decent job, I wasn't desperate, actually, I was a little too laid back, and perhaps a little flippant with my responses. I started quizzing them about their company. I may have even shocked them with what I knew. I stumped them a couple of times. I wasn't trying to be smart, I was really just curious. Besides, I have had much more grueling interviews. This one was a conversation.

Two days later I get a call offering me a position. I was informed that pay would be decided, and offered the following Monday. I start thinking how much I love working in the science field, and how much of a pay cut I would take to go back. Monday I get the offer, It is a substantial pay increase. I am stunned, and about to ask if the number was correct. Apparently, my silence spooked them. They assured me that this was just for the trial period, and as soon as I have proven myself, a raise would be forth coming.

I was not trying to play it cool, or aloof, I asked if I could call them back in an hour. I informed them that I was walking my dog, and it was raining somewhat hard. I gathered my thoughts, finished my walk, dried off the dog, sat down and called them back and told them I would give my two weeks notice. Monday I start my new job.

Sadly, when I am around the plant, I must wear Safety Equipment, no Kilts.