mulat-mata (eye-open[er])

Adjourning

The most difficult time I experienced "adjourning" with a team/group was when I left the University of the Philippines, Department of Family Life and Child Development.  I think I had great difficulty saying goodbye was because this was where I felt I grew the most, cognitively, emotionally and professionally as I have experienced ups and downs in this department.  The department recruited me as soon as I graduated and stayed there for 7 years.  I studied in the University of the Philippines from Kindergarten until my undergraduate program and working there seemed to be so natural for me.  I also took my masters in the same University while I worked there and the Campus seemed to have been my comfort zone.

Leaving my comfort zone was a very difficult decision for me especially since the Department and I shared the same vision and advocacy to help young children reach their maximum potential holistically and train future teachers who will do the same.  But, I had to resign since I was pregnant and felt that the work load in the department will prevent me for providing the time I needed to care for my family.  Family is my priority, work just comes next so I had to make the decision and look for another job that will require less time at work.  I cried when I resigned from the department and found it very difficult to say goodbye.  Having a goodbye party thrown for me made it easier.  I think, the party and my exit interview provided the closure I needed.  I still miss the department but I am no longer sad.  I found that there is also "life" outside the department.          

posted by Elizabeth King Santos @ 8:09 PM