summerAny time I respond to someone’s inquiry that I’m a religious studies major, their first response is “And what do you plan on doing with that?”   Typically I just delay answering by saying I’d like to attend grad school,   but like most students facing the impending “real world,” I’ve been feeling a bit of anxiety on what I want to do and preparing myself. Fortunately, this week’s round up is full of reassurance that life outside academia isn’t so bad. And for those like my father, who just experienced an unanticipated career change, there’s are some nuggets in there for those who are changing their career paths.

  • J.D. talks about the difference between a career and a job. (Read it at Get Rich Slowly)
  • And when you’re looking for your new career, here’s some advice from Trent on how to choose one. (Read it at The Simple Dollar)
  • Which he follows up with a thoughtful post on finding the balance between loving what you’re doing and making money.(Read it at The Simple Dollar)
  • And on an unrelated note, here are some different ways to cool down with variations on lemonade for hot, humid days. (Read it at Real Simple via Lifehacker)

Queercents Flashback: For those feeling the weight of the not recession, here’s Paula’s list of six things to do if you’ve lost your job.