saw a job opening I'm scared of applying for....

Many years ago, I had absolutely no self-confidence in myself regarding new jobs. I've been completely blessed with fantastic opportunities the last 10 yrs or so and it all started with applying for a job I didn't think I was qualified for and wasn't sure I was interested in. You have absolutely nothing to lose by sending your resume. If you learn more about the position and decide it's not for you, you can simply decline to interview or if offered the position, you can decline to take it. Go for it!!

 Spiritdogs (Anne) works with the aging in MA, I believe.  Send her a PM if she doesn't see this.

Apply for it.  As my dad says: it never hurts to ask.

For self esteem, read The Greatest Miracle in the World by Og Mandino.  I am still working on getting to it, but the people who have read it say it gave them a great self esteem boost.  If you aren't much into reading then get it on book on tape. A lot of how we feel about ourselves is what we feed our minds.

Submit your resume and let the employers do the decision making as to who's fit for the position. I'm sure you are. And if this position doesn't work out don't let it get to you... keep on trying. When I went on my first interview my (quite cynical) sister in law said "Don't worry if you don't get it. Most people don't get hired on their first interview." Good advice, but I got the job, and you might just too!

Please, please do it. You deserve to be happy in your job.

ETA: Please keep us updated!

alieliza

Submit your resume and let the employers do the decision making as to who's fit for the position. I'm sure you are. And if this position doesn't work out don't let it get to you... keep on trying.

EXACTLY MY THOUGHTS!  If you get an interview and decide that the type of job wouldn’t be right for you and they offer it, you can always decline. But give it a try and have confidence in yourself!

 Totally, GO FOR IT!!!! No risks - absolute worst case scenario, you never hear from them again. Best case scenario, you might have your dream job! If you later decide you really don't want the position, you can quite easily withdraw your application or decline their offer. Happens all the time.

I know the applying is the hardest part... so in the wise words of Nike, "Just do it!"

 I'm in a similar situation.  At the end of a criminal justice degree I discovered a love for victim services but have zero coursework in any of the social work, psychology, counseling type things that victims usually need.  At least your degree is relateable to the position.

Here's the thing though, you know you loved it even though you were scared.  I was the same.  It's that love of doing something and working for others who need you that will carry you through the tough times because you'll remember the times when it went really well and you really helped someone.  I've also found that others working in this type of field not only want to help others but there's usually a good support system within an organization, they care about each other in ways I haven't seen in other industries.

So, my size 11s are kicking you and saying APPLY APPLY APPLY!  What's that quote about courage being doing something even if you're scared?  Just go for it!!!  :) 

ETA: I don't know your astrological sign, but today, you're an honorary Aries and here is your horoscope, I think it's very appropriate for your dilemma.

Today marks the beginning of a new phase for your life -- suddenly, your outlook is going to be much more positive. You understand that things are possible, and that you are capable! Starting new adventures and tackling new challenges feels exciting instead of intimidating, and your ambitions are going to be reawakened. This is a perfect day to take on a new goal -- pick the toughest one on your list and start moving towards it, today. Success might be a long way off, but it is coming!

I would say if you can answer a couple of questions, you are just right for the job.

Do you care about the quality of someone else's life?

Will you ask questions when you dont know or are not sure?

Will you treat your clients with respect?

 Funny I think I already know what you will say.  No one minds an honest mistake while you are learning or even after you are experienced.  What they (clients) and the business care about: are the needs being met?

Thanks everyone - I touched up my resume to include my field and internship work (which is related to the position) and I will send it in today, while having minor heart attacks.  I'm also scared I won't even hear back from them.  I've been looking for a new job for several months and have had ONE interview.  I know it's not ME.  In talking with and hearing about others trying to find work around here - this is pretty norm sadly.  The way places do their hiring leaves a lot of people out on a limb with no phone calls (or when trying to follow up after a reasonable wait, no RETURN calls!).

MRV the answer to all those questions is yes.  

I really do need to leave my current place of employment - and wish I could do so sooner rather than later.  For instance it is now 6:45, I'm unshowered, messing around online lol, and I need to leave soon - and don't really care.  THAT is definitively not like me.  I used to be the type that goes over and above what is expected of me - and now I just do the minimum needed to get by.  When your continually shot down, not taken seriously, and used as a dumping spot - I guess it's understandable in a way.  

Thank you all for the swift kick - I need it.  One of my least desirable traits is cowardice when it comes to going for things I know I want but feel like I wouldn't do well in.  

So I stayed up a bit last night thinking about my internship and how much I felt good about doing it.  Even a few situations that tested the limits of my ability to understand the situation and were shocking to me - it felt good to be there in some capacity that would bring assistance to another person. 

Scared silly - but I will send in that resume.

the_gopher

Scared silly - but I will send in that resume.

Great!  Keep us posted.  I've got my fingers crossed that you're able to get what you're looking for!

I'm late in this one, but I'm happy your are taking this chance! May the best answer comes! Good luck!