Re: Useful Lessons For New People

[Lisa Westcott <Lisa_Westcott -at- telus -dot- net>]

I'd just like to say a huge thank you to Thomas Murrell for what I'm going to
take as a huge boost of confidence.

I'm currently 14½ weeks away from completing my Technical Communication
certificate and 15 weeks away from moving out of Canada and down to Silicon
Valley where my hubby-to-be is working. It is hugely (and I do mean hugely)
intimidating to be starting a new career in one of the high tech capitals of the
world, and reading along on Techwhirl since I subscribed last weekend (and
following the university-versus-reality stream in particular) has frankly scared
the crap out of me. I was starting to regret listening to the teachers who have
recommended Techwhirl as a great forum for learning. I was also starting to
rethink tech writing altogether, because so many folks seemed to be so negative
about bringing new, less-experienced people into the industry.

So thanks to Thomas Murrell for pointing out (very kindly!) that the tech world
is full of different people, different opportunities, and different types of
jobs at different levels -- even for us newbies. My faith is renewed in tech
writing (and in Techwhirl!), and I'm optimistic again that somewhere out there
is a job where I can work hard, learn tons, and contribute as part of a team,
doing something that I think I'm really going to love.

Thanks again!

Lisa
lisa_westcott -at- telus -dot- net