Where do you live? City and State (or Country if outside the U.S.)
Anchorage, AK
Do you like where you currently live? Why or why not?
Yes! I’ve only been here for a month but love it so far. I moved to AK from Philadelphia to have more access to nature and a colder climate. So far, I love having city amenities while being in a more chill environment and tons of nature right outside my door.
Do you have any hobbies? What are they?
I run, figure skate, hike, do yoga, and cook.
What is your highest level of education?
Bachelor’s
Where did you go to school? What did you study?
University of Vermont; Environmental Studies
Are you currently employed?
Yes
What is your current occupation?
Environmental Scientist
Do you like your current occupation / job? Why or why not?
I’ve only been at it for less than a month, but I do like it so far. I work in consulting, so I get to travel around the state a lot. My projects are varied, and I like the change of pace each week!
What is your yearly salary (or approximate yearly compensation)? Feel free to include any bonuses or other compensation perks you may receive this year.
70,000
Have you ever been promoted at work? What position(s) were you promoted to?
Yes, I was promoted at my last job. My job title didn’t change but I was given more responsibilities and pay.
Have you ever negotiated your salary? If so, how did that go / what was the outcome?
Yes, I negotiated my salary for my current job. I was hoping for a larger counter offer, but I was eager to move out to AK so I took it. The offer only increased by 2k annually.
Do you have a second job or side hustle? If yes, what is it and what do you do?
No
If you have a second job or side hustle, about how much money do you make *monthly* from your second job / side hustle?
N/A
What is your relationship status?
Single
What is your *monthly* rent / mortgage for your household?
1650
Do you have any children / dependents? If yes, how many?
No
Do you have any pets? If yes, what kind?
Yes, a 7 year old golden retreiver
About how much do you spend on groceries *each week*?
~100
Are you debt free?
Yes
How much debt did you pay off and how long did it take you to pay it off?
I’m very fortunate to have never been in debt. My folks and my grandparents covered my college education, and my car was bought in cash.
How much *cash* savings do you have currently?
$10,000 +
Are you currently investing/saving for your retirement?
Yes
About how much money do you have invested/saved for retirement? Are you satisfied with this number?
Approximately 110,000. I haven’t logged into my accounts in a while, but I think this is where they’re at. I do feel satisfied with this number.
What’s been your favorite purchase this year?
Moving out to AK!!! Also new ice skates.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self?
You’re doing great; worrying doesn’t create a better outcome.
What current goals do you have? (ex. Health goals, Fitness, Money, Career, Travel, etc.)
I’d like to make my way back to the salary I had at my last job.
What are you currently struggling with, if anything?
Adjusting to a new salary in a new state with different expenses each month. In Philly, I barely drove my car due to public transportation and an abundance of stressful traffic. In AK, driving is a lot more chill and enjoyable and I love getting out to the mountains. So my transportation budget has increased a bit. Groceries are definitely more expensive here, so I’m still figuring out what a good budget for me will be. Struggling with no access to a Trader Joe’s, lol.
What accomplishments of yours are you most proud of?
Taking a leap of faith and moving somewhere across the continent with no friends or family and a handful of acquaintances. Prioritizing enjoying my life now instead of waiting until retirement.
What makes you imperfect?
I took a MASSIVE pay cut to move out here. I was making $114,000 in Philadelphia working for a federal agency. I loved my job and being a fed, but I was sick of the constant bullying from the current administration.
It’s Personal is an anonymous blog series about the personal lives and finances of women.
