Funemployment | noun | the condition of a person who takes advantage of being out of a job to have the time of their life.
I first came across the term “funemployment” when one of the PAs I worked with in the ER was relocating, so she had about 3 weeks off before starting her new job. Although she had to pack up and move, she still had a bunch of fun activities planned during her mini unemployment, hence the term FUNemployment. For me, funemployment was the month before PA school to just LIVE. So I dedicated the month of July to do just that. And believe me, I did! I quit my job as a medical scribe about 5 weeks before orientation day, and used that time to clear my head and live as carefree as possible.
Traveling, sleeping in, cooking classes, working out, hanging out with friends, and Netflix binges was how I spent my time. My social media sites were probably extra with pictures and updates during July, but I’ll keep it simple here with a highlight reel.
1) The BAHAMAS
This trip was literally ONE week before the first day of school. At first I was a little hesitant cutting it so close, but I am so glad I did. For the first time in a long time I felt rested, refreshed, and rejuvenated. The weather, the water, the people, the culture is EVERYTHING. This was my fifth trip to the Bahamas (thanks to my parents’ timeshare), and I am still amazed by how clear and warm the ocean water was. My routine was literally beach in the morning, pool in the evening, multiple strawberry daiquiris in between, repeat. I did have an adventurous day where we took a power boat out to a private island and got to feed sting rays, snorkel, and wrestle with sharks. Yes sharks, but I stayed safe and sound on the dock lol. I worked to hard too get into PA school to risk it all with some sharks 😂. The entire island vibe is so laid back and the locals are so friendly, that I hope everyone gets to experience it at one time or another. Ladies, 3+ trips to the Bahamas and you are considered a Bahama Mama 😉
2) FRIENDS
I’m sure you know just as much as me that trying to get your close group of friends together is nearly impossible due to schedules, significant others, and at this age even weddings and babies. BUT I made an extra effort to see those closest to me knowing that for the next two years, my time wouldn’t be my own. I love the saying it takes a village because without my friends and family I know my journey to PA school would have probably had a lot more lows than highs. So weddings, birthdays, wine tasting, dog beaches and lunches were some of the things that brought us together and I couldn’t be more thankful.
3) EXERCISE + CLEAN(er) EATING
This one might throw you off guard, but yes exercising can be fun when you find the workouts that are right for you! When I was working crazy hours in the ER (think 10 PM to 6 AM) and finishing prereqs, my CASPA app, and preparing for interviews my workout game seriously fell off. I had no energy, my skin was a mess, and had a little more fluff than I wanted lol. But with the month of free time I had, I made sure to take full advantage and get back in the gym and the kitchen. I started with BBG aka Bikini Body Guide, which is a 12 week program of 30 minute workouts. I definitely struggled in the beginning, but as the weeks passed I became stronger and even started seeing baby abs and my biceps in the mirror! I also added one day of cycling at 24 hour fitness. I hate these classes, but love them so much at the same time lol. As far as my diet, I am a HUGE snacker. Mindless eating chips out of the bag is definitely me. So I started incorporating more fruits/veggies, and am having fun creating recipes for dinner. My hope is that these new habits work as my stress reliever when things get hectic with school.
I could go into so much more, but that’s my quick round up of my funemployment. One thing I made sure not to do was study. This is a tip about 99% of the students in the class ahead of me suggested, and I happily obliged. Now I’m sure there are people out there that feel more comfortable doing a little reviewing, and there is nothing wrong with that. The point is whether your “funemployment” is 3 months or 3 weeks, do whatever it takes to be your best self before starting school that way you are ready to kick ass! Orientation day is TWO days away.
The Curly Haired PA 