High School Homecoming
I went to my high school’s “Global Alumni Homecoming” yesterday, global since alumni from other parts of the world (read: US of A), came home just for the occasion, which was held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the school. I only got the info the day before, so I was very excited about it, which someone found weird, given that most people don’t like going to HS reunions. I was about to find out why soon enough. 
Anyway, I didn’t really intend on staying that long. Just wanted to see a buddy of mine, get in touch with former classmates and old friends, the usual pleasantries, reminiscing most of the fun-filled days, etc. That part was enjoyable and went well as planned. One particular thing I didn’t anticipate (silly me) was answering the question “What are you doing now?”.
For almost four years now since I graduated, I’ve been jobless, both by reason of circumstances and by choice. By circumstances, because I was the only one in the family that didn’t have a chance at getting a good job ASAP, I agreed to stay at home to look after my grandmother. By choice, because my major, Philosophy, doesn’t really have that many “related” jobs other than teaching, which I don’t like because I suck at it (I tried). And no, working brainlessly in a call center, is not an option either. So when asked what I’m doing now, I couldn’t really give a straight answer, unlike some of my peers. Seeing their reactions of disappointment or shock only made things worse, considering how well I did in school and how it was expected that I’d be the successful one (yeah.. right…).
I really have only myself to blame. Thanks to procrastination, I’ve been delayed in achieving that title I’ve been planning to get more than a year ago: “software developer”. Fortunately, that’s about to change a lot. I’m going back to school! And this time, for a course that I actually love. So while the homecoming was a mixed bowl of emotions, I guess something good did come out of it. The experience was like a shocking jolt waking me up from some dreamy state to a bitter reality. Now, at least, I have another reason to get off my ass, although an unpleasant one. Good luck to me!
P.S. I don’t dislike Philosophy as a major. In fact, I enjoyed most of it, although I can barely recall most of my lessons after 4 years of stagnation. It’s just that I don’t really find it to be a fulfilling career personally. My true love seems to lie in the realm of 1’s and 0’s.
P.P.S. I wished I came up with a “professional-sounding” title/term that basically says “I’m doing voluntary work as a contributor to FOSS projects, such as doing user support”. That would have probably sounded more impressive. 
Of course, then I’d be going into a discussion of free and open source software. But then I’d like that, since it’s an opportunity to pimp my stuff.
