04/19: Time has definitely passed by quickly; in just a few days I'll be halfway done with my six-month probation. I have a lot more work and responsibility than I used to, and a lot of things are very disorganized. But the strange thing is that I actually like it that way. Having more responsibility is a constant reminder that I've moved forward from being an entry-level employee. I now handle more coordination of projects involving other staff and often prepare documents and reports for use by senior staff, meaning I must learn more and more to think from a management-level perspective. As for the lack of organization (which is actually one of the "rumors" I had been warned about prior to beginning the job), I've come to see that, while frustrating at times, it is an excellent opportunity to take charge and make a difference. Many things are disorganized simply because no proper procedures have been established, resulting in redundant and unnecessarily time-consuming work. And after examining some of these tasks, consulting people and other resources as necessary, and streamlining the affected documents and procedures, I am definitely starting to see positive results.

Yes, the strict work environment has not changed, along with some other challenges that I had been warned about or have come to recognize. And yes, I'm always going to keep an open mind about the future. But for now, I'm glad - and somewhat surprised - to say that I actually really enjoy the work I do and am satisfied with where I am. God alone knows what the future holds, and I will continue to trust Him each day to guide me according to His will.