New Job

I just finished the first week of my new job. I can't say that I enjoyed it. It was 4 days of intense instruction on everything we would need to know in order to pass the Property and Casualty Insurance licensing exams. Anyone who doesn't pass this exam will lose their job. So I studied, took practice exams on the internet, and basically ignored all else for a full week. My brain ached, and I was a bit cranky and irritable. it was all I talked about all week. I did learn a lot though. We actually lost about 3-4 people before the end of the week. Suddenly, they weren't at work. Don't know what happened to them. Yesterday and today were testing days. Most of my class took their exams yesterday, but there were 4 stragglers (me included) who took it today. I will not lie. It was tough. Just the testing center is intimidating. You sit in a dark room with only the computer stations illuminated. No talking. Complete silence. They even supplied us with ear plugs. 


So, I passed. And so did Brandon, who sat next to me all week. The other 2 ladies I don't know about. I kind of wanted to stay and wait for them, but I still had to get Kat to bowling. Now, you ask, what if some people didn't pass all of the sections? Anyone who doesn't pass the first time will get a second chance on Tuesday. Anyone who doesn't pass the second time will lose their jobs. We have to be licensed insurance agents because the people we are dealing with over the phones are calling to make changes to their insurance policy. We can't alter a thing legally without that license. I can hardly wait to get to work on Monday to see who all passed! And encourage those who didn't that they can do it! 


I had actually been to this testing center once before for licensing testing. When I was in school, it was mandatory that all students pass the A+ exam for computer repair. Unfortunately for me, my instructor didn't know what the heck he was talking about, taught us all bogus information, and old information, because the test was totally revamped right before we took the stupid thing. So I took the A+ twice, and failed it twice. So I had a little anxiety preparing for this one. Now I'm going to find software and take that A+ and pass the damn thing!!!


We had one of the HR guys and a licensing mentor at the testing site for moral support. They had chocolate and encouraging words for us. I was catting with them after the test and was told that there would be a need in the near future for both more IT and HR staff. That's where I want to go, so I will work hard, make a good impression, and hopefully move up real soon. 


Oh, and for the first time in 6 years, I have health insurance! And a 401k! 


So I am ready to learn about all things Allstate. I am excited for this new endeavor. And I have made new friends. Let's hope they all get to stay. 


I now return you back to your regularly scheduled life.