Leaving the academe is not a risk, but a challenge

Leaving the academe after 11 years, 3 months, and 16 days is seen by many as "a big risk." In fact, when I was processing my resignation form, people asked me "Why?" Well, of course, it must be an instinct to ask that question, but for them to ask "Saan ang punta mo, Ma'am?" gave me a different picture. It turned out most employees, if not all, who have left the university went abroad. So when I answered, "I'm not going abroad. I'm just staying home," they did not believe me even for a second.

For one, I was technically telling the truth when I said I'm staying home cause I was just hired by a company that provides home-based jobs. Yes, I'll be doing work at the comfort of my own home :-)

My colleagues and the VP for Academic Affairs asked me if I was sure about this decision. And I said, " Yes, I'm happy about it, and I'm excited about finding a new job." That answer was enough for them to be assured that I was, indeed, making the right decision. Well, yes, as of now, things seem uncertain for me. However, deep in my heart, I know that staying poses bigger risk. Sometimes, staying in the comfort zone is much scarier than finding a niche outside of it. This is how I see life.

Considering that risk may be seen as the result of reward minus cost, I would have to say that going to the industry and leaving the academe is not really a risk. It's more of a challenge. To tell you honestly, I'm looking forward to it!

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