In May of 2004, I graduated from Norwich University, a small,
private college in no-where Vermont. Norwich is a military college that is primarily
composed of males who are seeking a lifestyle in the U.S. Military.
In 1992, the university decided to incorporate civilian students
into their program. ĘThis move allowed for liberal, opinionated young women
from Colorado to shake things up a bit at the university. I was excited by the
prospect that I would be a minority and would have to adapt to a different environment.
I deduced that it would be a wonderful adventure that would exceed the typical
college experience. What was I thinking! I'll tell you what- I was 17
when I went to college, I think this can explain the gross miscalculation in
what an adventure should be!
After graduating from Norwich University with a B.A. in Political
Science and Public Law, I headed home to savor the last of my carefree days.
I fulfilled my four year degree requirement in three years,
while maintaining a job and completing an internship with U.S. Senator James
Jeffords (I, VT). I graduated with Honor and was sure that my accomplishments
would result in a slew of employment opportunities..........
Hahaha, how cute young minds are! My thought process was clearly
a little flawed. At the present time, the job market is unpredictable,
uncontrollable and certainly does not offer undergraduates many appealing options.
Many of the students that I attended college with were exceptionally
bright, motivated and very goal oriented. That being said, it's interesting
to note that most of my graduating class, that did not accept a commission in
the military, are waiters, waitresses, construction workers, substitute teachers
and retail employees.
I
found myself stuck in the retail rut as well. I was working for low wages, and
for a woman who did not appreciate or respect me.... Suffice it to say the combination
of low wage and a negative work environment wasn't productive for me.
I began making jewelry in high school when I worked for Hot
Mama's Beads in Basalt, Colorado and later had the opportunity to learn a wire
wrapping technique. The wire wrapping technique that I use is the oldest known
form of jewelry production, yet can be seen in magazines such as Sundance. Countless
artists utilize this technique for its fluid appearance, durability and quality.
For more information on the history of wire wrapping, please visit http://www.emporia.edu/earthsci/amber/go340/wrap.htm
or http://www.fashion-era.com/jewellery.htm.
In typical Jen fashion, I broke out on my own! I have always
had a strong affinity for jewelry and a fierce belief that I could accomplish
anything that I set my mind to. The distinct combination of my self-determination
and love of jewelry led me to the idea of opening my own jewelry business and
this my friends is how Anam Cara was born! At this particular juncture of my
life, I am delightfully surprised by this twist in road. I am especially grateful
for the opportunity to be an entrepreneur in an industry that allows for creativity
and change.
I hope that you enjoy the jewelry and can appreciate the spirit
in which it is made. Thank you for your interest in Anam Cara and the enigma
that owns it!
Jen Donovan