an update on the job front

I am often asked the question, “So, what do you do all day?” I thought it would be a good idea to share my answer in a post, assuming people continue to read our blog!

For a brief moment when we first found out we were moving, I was tempted to live a life of luxury as an expat's wife. However, I quickly learned that I am not cut out to be a lady of leisure. I find it ok to be off for the summer after 10 months of hard work in the classroom, but I was already going crazy by August. I plan on working in Oslo.

Up until now, I stayed busy packing up our house in Houston, getting us temporarily settled while searching for housing, planning a trip here and there, and of course job hunting. Sure, I had my days where I enjoyed wandering around the city to get my bearings. I may have squeezed in some window shopping here and there. And I enjoyed a cup or two of coffee in various cafes around the city while creating this blog.

I spent quite a bit of time searching for jobs online, only to learn that finding a job in Oslo is all about networking. A connection gets you the interview, then you prove yourself to get the job.

I started building my network through online expat groups. I even attended a luncheon with several other wives that were definitely not looking for jobs. This isn’t their first international rodeo. Nice ladies, though!

Another fortunate benefit to moving through Matt’s company is the services they provide to partners and spouses. They put us in contact with outside companies whose purpose is to help expats transition smoothly.

Matt & I took a cross-cultural training course where we learned the essentials of living and working in the Norwegian Culture. I was also given several more resources to network through.

One of the best parts of the course was spending two days in the Statoil building. Very cool.

Don't worry. I didn't embarrass Matthew by pulling out my camera in front of his friends.

Can you see the Statoil building on the other side of the water? This was obviously not taken during the cross cultural course, but on a Sunday run through the woods. I just wanted you to see the ridiculous view from Matt's office.

I recently met with an advisor from the International Network of Norway through the Oslo Chamber of Commerce who gave me hope in regards to working in the Norwegian public schools. I was originally under the impression that language would be too big of a barrier, but her connections have led her to believe a teaching assistant position might be a possibility.

I have also been in contact with the Oslo International School thanks to a colleague of Matt's who put in a good word me for. I’m telling you, it’s all about who you know! That’s all I can say for now in regards to this particular lead. Fingers crossed that I’ll have good news to share soon!

To sum it up, I will be working at some point. Whether it’s full time or part time or even in the field of education, I’ll just have to wait and see. 

For now, I’m off on a week long trip with my vagabond friend, Molly. --- Come on, now. Of course I’m going to take advantage of this time off!