Quote Originally Posted by Crankin View Post
But, I think that if more people who were in my position made small changes in their habits, it would help make permanent changes. Like the thread on more people riding their bikes; do you think this phenomenon will last if gas suddenly gets a bit cheaper? Personally, I don't. We need to get a critical mass out there doing these things before they become "habits" that are part of our national personality.
And yes, vote...
I agree! I have seen more people riding their bikes around town lately, which is great (although I do wish they'd follow the rules of the road better). As far as how the economic situation is affecting me, I wouldn't say I've made too many major changes since I have always tried to be fairly frugal (being a student will do that to a person). However, it is stressing me out that I am having so much trouble finding a nursing job around here. So much for the supposed shortage of nurses. We new grad nurses (I just got my RN license in February and have one more year of school to become an NP) here in MA are having a hard time because there just aren't as many positions available for us--most places are just looking for experienced nurses. And because I am still in school in MA, I do not have the option of looking in other states as some people have suggested to those of us having problems finding jobs. It's frustrating and I am hoping something comes through soon (I have all sorts of applications out at a bunch of places). I also would prefer, for obvious reasons, to end up working somewhere that is close enough to walk or bike to--a couple of the hospitals are about 20 miles away (one's even further, but it looks like the train would be an option on weekdays) so biking it would be pretty tough for a slow rider like me, but others are right in the same town as I am. We'll see what happens...