But I want you to remember that struggle and strive comes before success, even in the dictionary.
I believe I am the future for tomorrow, for my country and for the world. But what is it really like after getting a degree and move on to a greater face of reality? Based on my experience, it was a roller coaster ride — huge, fast and dangerous. The thrill of sharp turns, ups and downs is what you’ll get. And just when you think it’s over, you realize that it will slowly drag you to a higher platform and shoots you towards the ground.
After graduation I had a sedentary lifestyle. “I just had my 5 years of studying architecture, I will reward myself a break,” my excuse when my family noticed me doing nothing. And that whole scheme worked like magic every time. A few weeks later I decided to take a long vacation to our province. Couldn’t care less of finding a course related job opportunities in the Internet because I was so stuck in my comfort zone. The thing is, when my relatives found out that I got a degree in architecture, all of a sudden every house, landscapes and interior design needs to be redone. I accepted all the tasks but overlooked a problem – I’m not motivated and I lack confidence. Its pure pressure and all work, when what I needed in that moment is to unwind and enjoy a task free life. I end up withdrawing some responsibilities and focused on one major project (to design a 3-4 storey house for my lola). It took months of planning and designing. I don’t want to ruin my first project bearing my name and pride.
Back here in Manila, I decided to focus on my goals. I started to worry for my future and sometimes complicate things which make it a lot harder to find a good direction. I envy my other classmates for their internships and successful career. I had a chance to talk to my friends and took a lot of advice and recommendations for finding a job. It’s a huge help and it motivates me to focus on my chosen career path. Though technology makes it easy for me to find job suggestions related to my course but, I wanted to work in a company I know I will fit in and I can be happy, with no doubts of waking up in the morning and always feel excited to work. My family and friends told me to just try and explore, and that’s what I did. “I will find a job! Submit my application and work my charm.” It’s easier said than done. Estimated resume sent, 200 and a counting. That includes job opportunities across the country. I received some feedbacks and scheduled interviews, most of the time it turned out well. There are job offers but I have to turn down the chance because it’s either I’m not interested in the working environment, job description and salary. At end of the day I’m still in our apartment hopeless and broke.
Job hunting in Ortigas and playing w/ manong's signage "i buy cartridges"
Months progressed and nothing has changed, I quit searching and think of other options. What’s my excuse? “I have no connections! I’m the first ever soon to be architect in our clan and I don’t have any experience!” I was emotionally offended and drained. All can do it cry silently with all the frustrations I can ever think of. I was lost. I cared not the least a bit of uttering words of insult to myself. I called my parents crying for help. They talked to me in a calmly manner and that made me feel safe.
December 2011, an HR from “my preferred company list” called me for an interview. I confirmed my attendance. It has been a long shot for me to gain my confidence and I fear of failure or taking risks. I can feel a rope – straining my body to react assertively. Walking towards the building I can feel my hands are shaky and sweaty, my mind is blank and I can’t even talk straight. I knew I was nervous and yet excited. I pulled myself together, I stayed focus and alert. Heading straight towards the HR office, I took the exam followed by the interview and head back home. The following days and week all the companies that I applied for the previous months called to schedule an interview and job offers. I declined all of it. That is by far the craziest and the most stupid decision I ever done.
January 2012, my second interview in that same company. I feel relieved that they called me. I even cursed for happiness. They told me that they are interested to my resume and to see my full portfolio.
I faced 6 panels of senior architects they’re all wearing a smile and randomly cracks a joke which made me feel comfortable. I requested for a projector for me to present my portfolio. It’s like a thesis deliberation in the conference room and it all went well. I waited the result of my application for a week, but I did not get any feedbacks, not even a single phone call. I was worried and scared.
“THEY CALLED ME FOR MY FINAL INTERVIEW!” I yelled. I was excited and gyrating! After a week of preparation I went to Makati for the final interview with the head architect of the company. During the interview I was stuttering and my mouth was dry. The best thing to do is widen your eyes, open your mouth, nod and you’ll be wise. I did that and It went okay though I’m not that confident about it. I kept a positive feeling, hopes up and more faith.
February 2012, job offer! Greatest gift I received for my birthday. Valentine’s day February 14, I signed my contract and it’s my first day of work. .
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Today, I’m enjoying my work, very happy and always thankful to God and for the people who gave me this awesome opportunity. Also to my family and friends for their continuous love and support. Life may shake you, it can turn you upside down, but the most important thing is never to let go and always enjoy the playful roller coaster ride.
I work in a real estate company in Makati innovation+design group
Endorphins 