So I currently work at UMAX Computer Corporation in Santa Clara, CA. Our office is located across the street from Paramount's Great America, so I have been on The Drop Zone and Top Gun about 15 times this past summer. I'm having a really good time.

I don't think I can say more than that about my current digs, since, hey, I'm still working there. But, I wanted to end this story with a summary of what I have learned over the past four years. Maybe someone will benefit from this bit of experience...

Okay, I did eventually get laid off from UMAX Computer Corporation, as did everyone else, unfortunately. It was all very bizarre, if you ask me, but in the end I got some severence, my vacation money in lump sum (bad for taxes, I know), and I had already lined up a job at Philips Components thanks to my good friend Bruce Berkoff. I might write part 9 of this story at some point, but to be honest, it is getting a little tedious....

• First, don't ever stay somewhere that makes you miserable. I stayed at Apple for far too long when I was first there.
• Always be open to new experiences and job titles/descriptions. Especially if the rent is due.
• Don't be afraid to ask for the amount of money you want or feel you deserve. Unfortunately, one of the best ways to move that level up is to switch jobs a few times. This may only apply in Silicon Valley, and then in the crazy times of the day. YMMV.
• Observe everything. While this is particularly true in Silly Valley, it may be true where you are as well: things are basically the same in the working world, no matter where you go, so always learn from change and even from the status quo, and make these observations work for you. Duh, right? You are no-doubt amazed at how many people do not get this.
• Never announce anything, even to your closest work-friends, until you have an offer in writing.
• Never take advice from random people, including me. Do what makes sense to you, and keep your job and its demands in perspective. Or not.
• Finally, never ever ever under-estimate the power of acquaintance-networking when it comes to looking for a job.