Life through Different Lens by Funmi

Life through Different Lens by Funmi - April 2020 Scholarship Essay

“Welcome to your senior year! How about we start this new school year with the traditional game of icebreaker. Start with your name, one fact about you, and what you did this summer? Who would like to go first?” Everyone eagerly raised their hand as each student began sharing their story of how their summer went. As each of my peers confessed during their turns, they all out shined one another with their exotic summer tales spent relaxing at the beach or traveling to remote destinations or getting internships at prestigious companies. While I could only fantasize that I had spent my summer accomplishing something life changing and monumental such as help finding a cure for a fatal disease or traveling to tropical paradise. As I pondered over what I was going to say, I knew it was only right to admit the truth and face the crowd. The more I sat there thinking about it, the more I realized this first job experience was very impactful. As my turn approached, I proudly admitted to landing a summer job at the retail store Ross Dress for Less.
Reflecting on my first day, after multiple interviews and a couple of denials, I finally landed a summer job at Ross Dress for Less. “Welcome to Ross” became my new salutation from that moment forward. Like many life experiences, the feeling of excitement and nervousness is prevalent especially on the first day at a new job. I can remember walking into the building and trying to socialize in this new environment. As I walked through the front doors, I noticed how quickly everyone was moving. The way people were scurrying around like ants trying to complete their duties in a timely manner. On top of that, it looked like I was the only teenager, and I felt even more isolated than before. But that feeling changed when my co-workers welcomed me with open arms. I worked behind the cash register while welcoming customers with a friendly greeting. I tried my best to work hard, to not mess up, or disappoint my managers. I wanted to prove that although I may be young, I am also ambitious. Overtime, it was no secret I had to face uncertainties such as how some customers would drop the merchandise on the floor for an employee to pick up. There was an eye-opening experience that showed me how unmindful I used to be as a shopper. This allowed me to appreciate retail workers more for their hard work.
As a part-time worker, I am also a full-time student. As it is my senior year, it was important for me to learn to balance my high school responsibilities and a part-time job. I ensured to have a solid time management plan that helps me survive each day. In order for me to get a clear picture of what I have to work with in terms of setting up times to study and handle other responsibilities, I wrote out my day in a planner and filled in all the set events that are flexible with my work and class schedule. I also prepared a work calendar, so I could keep track of my work schedule and assignment due dates. Balancing a work schedule along with other commitments led me to better organizational skills to have some free time for myself.
There have been many experiences in my life that have shaped who I am as a person today. I got the first taste of responsibility that comes with having employment. Through this job experience, I was able to learn more about my interests, strengths, and weaknesses, and help plan better for future employment. I have developed greater career maturity that will allow me to understand the skills necessary to obtain different career paths such as an industrial engineer. I desire to follow and formulate a plan to obtain the skills needed to meet my goals. Although I do admit to nostalgically remembering those carefree summers, I am grateful for getting the opportunity to preview adulthood this past summer!