Mo' Money, NO Problems?

An interesting dilemma, posted by one of our readers in New York. Undoubtedly a question pondered by many a young professionals in these unsteady economic times.

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DEAR MISS MAISY,

I HAVE LANDED AN INTERVIEW FOR MY DREAM JOB. BUT, THE POSITION DOES NOT PAY. IN THIS UNFORTUNATE ECONOMIC CLIMATE, IS IT BETTER TO WAIT IT OUT FOR A BETTER OPTION, OR TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO GET INTO THE INDUSTRY YOU WANT TO BE IN, USE IT AS A RESUME BUILDER, AND KEEP APPLYING TO PAYING JOBS WHILE YOU'RE THERE?

THANK YOU,

IMPENDING INTERVIEWEE
(I realize this is not about romantic love, but it's about love of work. A type of modern love, n'est-ce pas?)
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Dear Impending Interviewee,

First and foremost - Congrats on the interview! No matter what happens, or what you decide, this is an accomplishment, in and of itself - SALUD!

Allow me next to focus on your word choice: "DREAM JOB." (I will even take the liberty of leaving the Caps Lock on for that.) My dearest Impending Interviewee, allow me to quote my fabulous mother: "Life is not a dress rehearsal. This is the real thing." And, you know what? The real thing is a short, wild ride that drives so quickly you practically get whiplash. If you are honestly in a position to take an unpaid job, then start cutting back on lattes and three-inch heels, and live your dream. 8 to 12 hours a day, every day, is a long time to spend in an office, or away from friends and family. You might as well do something you love - or at the very least - like a lot. Once you have a bit of experience under your belt, then who knows what opportunities may follow. You could end up - dare I suggest it? - getting paid for something you love. Or, alternately, live the dream for a short time, add it to the resume, and then move on when the "sock money" runs out (or when you can no longer live without chai tea lattes, whichever comes first.) Good luck, and let us know what you decide! (Oh, and ALL questions are welcome - I agree, def a type of modern love. Most dilemmas are :)