At the age of 17, I already am a working-student. I was exposed early to the working industry which actually helped me adapt and apply the things i learn at college.
My family is not in lack. My Dad can provide for my studies, but there came a point where in I saw how my Mom and Dad talked about financial status' since i have 2 more siblings studying. I then decided to stop for some time, and help them earn (a little help won't harm)
My first part time job was at
DU, a telecommunication channel. I can't really remember what job description was i given but it was more of encoding all the documents of new customers, and removing staples from those papers. Honestly, it was boring. I had some college colleagues though which motivated me (a little) to continue the job. However, i only stayed there for 2 weeks since I was 17 and that time, it was not a legal age for labor. So, good bye DU.
My second part-time job was at
Adidas Emerging Market as a Showroom Assistant. It was a great experience. That was the time when I asked God to make me permanent, hahaha. I got to learn new stuffs but related to marketing (my course in college). We handle upcoming products that will released in the market and of course perks, we get to wear them as well. heehee. I stayed there for 2 seasons which actually was a big help to my college fees. I was able to pay a part of it and help my parents in some few expenses. But we have to stick to the plan, I HAVE TO GO BACK TO COLLEGE. So after my 2nd season, i went back to college to finish my last 3 semesters.
Have you ever felt the feeling where in you don't wanna study anymore because you're earning money already? A part of me was not willing to give up my work but i clearly know that finishing my college and getting my degree is my parents' dream. I wanted to make them proud. My mom was not able to go to college because of financial reasons and I know she would not want the same thing to happen to me. So I did my best, and went back to college.
After few months, I found a new part-time job. That was in
Reel Cinemas. It's one of the biggest cinemas here in the UAE.
Working there was kinda challenging. There was no provided transportation and literally an hour away from my place. Plus, the fact that i have to go to college after that which is 2 hours away from the workplace. Aside from that, my timings was horrible. Sometimes I am asked to go home at 1 in the morning especially during weekends since there are a lot of customers. I was in the ticketing area so every end of the week, my voice is gone. I got sick and my Dad wanted me to resign since it wasn't good for my health. I stayed there for a month, and end up getting paid for 18 days only. That i do not know why, i was not able to ask anymore.
So after that horrible month, i finished my classes at the same time and what's left is my thesis. Since there was a problem at college, they only gave me a month to finish it. Imagine, a month|! Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat. Okay, then.
I was having my quiet time one morning and the word was God will never leave us empty-handed. Afternoon the same day, my best friend called me and she was asking for a location for her interview. She knew that i could help her since my ex-boyfriend works there. She told me to pass my CV, too. Just give it a try!
I asked God that time,
"God, i will be seeing my ex-boyfriend everyday. How will I be able to move on? But nevertheless, please help me. If it is your will for me to work at that place, and use me mightily, let your will be done."
Guess what! after emailing my CV that afternoon, i received a call next morning that i'll be having an interview. To make the story short, after interview, i was asked to start the next day. Wow! God was so fast! My best friend was so happy since we will be colleagues along with her boyfriend.
It was in
Emirates NBD.
I worked there as a Customer Service Representative, or as a call center agent which is an EWW for everyone. I don't know why. But hey, i got a job. I earn a lot you know :P All glory to my God.
That was my first permanent job. I have learned many things which made me realize that MATH wasn't bad at all. I mean, accounting is easy. Hehe. Due to private reasons, i will not be able to detail my job as per bank law. But God used Emirates NBD for me to grow not only as a career-woman but as a human-being.
I learned that you don't poop money. You work hard for it, and you must be wise on spending it. And humble myself even in overwhelming situations. I was able to finish my college, pay for my pending fees and get my thesis done. I am officially a
Bachelor of Business Administration major in Marketing. :)
It also gave me an opportunity to visit Philippines again after 5 freaking years. Thank God for my job!
I spent a year and a half working with them and did not finish my 2 year contract. All work has its other side, mine was stretched too much. I reached the point where in I don't wanna work anymore because of pressure, of people, and the environment. I knew God has something better for me.
After, all that. I was offered a better job in Adidas, again, but not as a part-timer. My old boss sent an email saying she will be more than happy to have me back and help me get into the Adidas office. Without hesitations, i signed my resignation papers and bid goodbye to Emirates NBD.
I'm happy to be back at Adidas, which i know i'm not only working but i'm doing what i love.
"God, thank you for giving me the strength, knowledge, and wisdom throughout the years that i have been working. I could not thank you enough for all the blessings that you have given me. I do not deserve anything in this world, but by your grace, my weakness was covered. Everything that i am, and everything that i have, i give it all back to you!"
Ciao.
