There is a particular quiet that only shows up when you step away from the churn of work. It is not laziness. It is not indecision. It is the kind of quiet that lets you hear your own thoughts again. I have been living in that quiet between jobs. Here is what I have been … Continue reading Notes from the In-Between
Author: Melissa Campbell aka GamerMomLuna
The Hardest Decision I’ve Made in My Career (So Far)
When you start a new job, you expect nerves. What you don’t expect is realizing almost immediately that you’ve stepped into the wrong fit. Image by Llouppie on Canva Earlier this month, I accepted an HR Generalist role that I was truly excited about. I went in ready to learn, contribute, and grow. But within … Continue reading The Hardest Decision I’ve Made in My Career (So Far)
When the First Day Leaves You Questioning Everything
The first day at a new job always comes with a mix of nerves and excitement. You hope to walk in, meet your team, find your desk, and leave at the end of the day with a sense of “Yes, this is where I belong.” That’s what I wanted — a day that confirmed I’d … Continue reading When the First Day Leaves You Questioning Everything
It’s Not Always a Bad Manager, Sometimes It’s Just the Wrong Job
There’s a common saying in the world of work: “People don’t leave bad jobs—they leave bad managers.” It’s catchy. It circulates on LinkedIn all the time. And yes, sometimes it’s true. A toxic boss can absolutely drive people out the door. But I think we’re doing a disservice when we repeat that line like it’s … Continue reading It’s Not Always a Bad Manager, Sometimes It’s Just the Wrong Job
Taking a Leap of Faith
This month, I made the decision to say yes to a new job. I'll be starting on August 18th. It’s exciting. It’s a step forward in my career. It’s something I worked really hard to get. But it’s also a little terrifying. Transitions are weird like that. You can be thrilled about the opportunity in … Continue reading Taking a Leap of Faith
I’m Credentialed! Now what?
This morning, I sat for the aPHR certification. I was so nervous! It's marketed as a "knowledge based credential" for people who are just entering their HR careers, or for people with no prior HR experience who manage individuals. Well, I passed, so that's the exciting thing! But the more I think about the questions … Continue reading I’m Credentialed! Now what?
Grad School Doesn’t Stop for Vacations
Grad school doesn’t stop for vacations, and That’s okay! I snapped this photo from a hotel lounge, mid-way through a relaxing summer getaway. My laptop and second monitor open, iced chai latte in hand, yogurt parfait pushed off to the side. A toasted bagel with cream cheese acting as both fuel and reward. This isn’t … Continue reading Grad School Doesn’t Stop for Vacations
Culture and DEI: Intertwined, but Not Interchangeable
Recently, someone gave me feedback that made me pause and reflect: “DE&I is just a component of overall culture strategy—it’s not culture in and of itself. Were you a DEI champion or a culture champion?” It’s a fair question. And it’s one I think many HR professionals and organizational leaders should be asking themselves, especially … Continue reading Culture and DEI: Intertwined, but Not Interchangeable
Why I Turned Down a Job Offer, Even Though I Wanted the Role
Recently, I was offered a position with a local school district. It was a role I was excited about. It aligned with my background, would have let me make a direct impact, and offered the kind of work I care deeply about. But after careful thought, I turned it down. The reason? The salary. This … Continue reading Why I Turned Down a Job Offer, Even Though I Wanted the Role
Breaking Into HR: Lessons from a Non-Traditional Path
Pursuing a career in HR when you didn’t start there can feel intimidating, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Here’s how I made the leap, what I’ve learned, and what I’d tell anyone else considering the jump. The Long Way Around When I graduated with my bachelor's degree in Social Work back in 2005, I thought … Continue reading Breaking Into HR: Lessons from a Non-Traditional Path









