When a woman is promoted to an administrative role in a central office, her transition can be especially difficult. Aspects of the socialization issues resident in this experience, as revealed in a narrative study of one woman administrator's experiences, are reported. The narrative, drawn from journal entries made during the administrator's first year in central office, recount her reactions and emotions as she adjusted to this new position. Interwoven with the narrative are excerpts from the literature that are intended to underlie and to substantiate the analysis of the situations encountered. The report outlines how a move to central office will result in the administrator, male or female, feeling alienated. It also discusses how both women and men administrators can experience a sense of worthlessness and a fear of failure in the new role. It is suggested that those moving to central office must establish contacts, networks, and mentors to learn all the facets of the position. There is also the powerful influence that the socialization of female administrators as "women" or "feminine" influences how others will perceive her and how she will perceive herself. Contains 21 references. (RJM)