Leaving VA a postdoc for job- need advice

[Almostpsyd284]

First post, but looking for some much needed advice. Quick background - I am just finishing my internship at a VA (have about 1 month left). I also signed a contract for fellowship at the same VA, which begins this fall.

My life circumstances have changed a bit since I applied and accepted the fellowship (feb/mar timeframe) and I have to move back to my home state (family medical issues, unexpected financial concerns).

Although I haven’t officially started my fellowship would it be terrible to let them know I can’t start it? I don’t want to burn bridges and I am open to staying if this will be a detriment to becoming licensed. I heard the TD has to sign off on hours when applying for licensure in the future, and hope this wouldn’t leave a bad taste in his mouth.

Has anyone been in this situation (or know someone who has) and what the outcome was? I applied to a few jobs in my home state to hopefully have something set up by the time I head back.

Any advice is appreciated. Kind of feel terrible about not being able to follow through on this commitment. Thanks in advance!

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[WisNeuro]

It will definitely burn bridges. This really screws up the funding year and recruitment many times. I've seen it happen a couple times, as long as you never plan on applying for a job at that VA, or with people they know well, you may be fine. Also, I'd be looking for alternative letter writers and references when you apply for job sin the future. Also, better come up with a good narrative as to why none of your letters/references aren't from your internship.

 

[Almostpsyd284]

Thank you, I appreciate your input. If i had a job or not I’d have to move regardless. It’s just a difficult decision because I love the fellowship program! I don’t want to burn a bridge but also have to decide what’s right for my family too.

 

[WisNeuro]

Family definitely comes first, but at least for this obligation, I'd only renege as a last resort, personally. Reputation is everything, especially in the more niche fields. Hard to come back from that in the early career area.

 

[Almostpsyd284]

I agree completely. I don’t think I’d ever move back here or need to be at this VA in the future. Just a tough spot to be in because I don’t want to leave but also want to do what’s right for my family

 

[FreudianSlippers]

I mean..it sort of sounds like you already made up your mind. If it's that bad definitely talk with the TD as soon as possible. Maybe they can help you with the pros/cons. It won't affect your licensure as long as you can get your hours another way, but like Wisneuro said it's not gonna be good for future VA work at the very least.

 

[Almostpsyd284]

That’s a good point. I plan on talking with them this week. Definitely okay with staying it would honestly be a lot easier for me if I left at this point. But I’m willing to stick it out if I have to. Over time do you think I’d be employable at a VA in another state?

 

[deleted343839]

Over time do you think I’d be employable at a VA in another state?

Depends somewhat on the desperation/competitiveness of the VA in question and the type of position. Also depends on who the TD knows. VA psychology can be a smaller world than it might appear. This is not to dissuade you if backing out is truly the right decision for you, but be aware of the possible ramifications. Regardless, talk to the TD ASAP.

 

[Almostpsyd284]

I really appreciate everyone’s support and comments. I made a decision to stay. I spoke with my family and although it’s going to be a struggle I just don’t have it in me to leave

 

[deleted343839]

I really appreciate everyone’s support and comments. I made a decision to stay. I spoke with my family and although it’s going to be a struggle I just don’t have it in me to leave

Sounds like a tough decision to make. Hopefully it will work out best in the long run. Best of luck.