This from my deeper meanings file... I sent my application in to the ICRM a little over 6 years ago. I had at the time worked in the records management field for 21 years and all for the same company. I wanted to make a change and I thought that the best way to promote myself, build my confidence, and maybe get someone's attention as a candidate for a their cool job was to become a CRM. I sat for Parts 1 thru 5 with really only studying for Part 1 (which helped a ton). I passed all but Part 2. Part 2 and I became adversaries. I took it 4 times prior to passing. Happy, happy, joy, joy! I've sat for Part 6 once. I did not pass. Oh well, I will try again. Meantime back at the track, I have gone from being a compliance specialist to a legal records supervisor to a corporate records manager. I did that in 2 years. I learned that my experience was valid and being a CRM candidate clearly helped me with that. I became self assured and I learned how to market myself. I never question whether I am a professional - I am, it's mine, and no one can take that away from me. Life throws us all curves and I have certainly had plenty. On November 8, 2006 I learned that I had MS. Now there's a set of letters no one wants. Long story short, I started treatment and I am doing great. I like what Patrick wrote about moving on - why rehash your past when you have the here & now and the future? This is an exciting time to be in the records management field. There are so many niches (is that a word or is it nichi??). I love technology and I have been ever so fortunate to have basically grown up with the personal computer. There's been some very good career development advice on this list today. Thanks to all of you for your contributions! All the best! Rock on! Sharon Burnett Seattle WA PS Hey - keep your eyes posted for that Police reunion! List archives at http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/recmgmt-l.html Contact [log in to unmask] for assistance