The only jobs I had throughout high school and the beginning of college have been education focus and taking care of younger children. I never really had a hands on experience such as working in a food place or just different departments in general until now. I began working at one of the dining hall options on campus and I was nervous. I knew that I would have to socialize with many people and this was something I wasn’t used to because I consider myself more on the shy side. When the day arrived to present myself at work I was shown around and I learned how to stock up on different things we use such as cups, napkins, utensils, etc. I figured that I would only be stocking up and I didn’t mind because it would mean that I didn’t have to talk to any but throughout my shift my manager put me in different stations so that I can familiarize myself with everything.
I thought I would have trouble with speaking up and I was at first but got comfortable really quickly. After the first few days I was getting along with the chefs and was able to having normal conversations with my managers. I learned to be more independent for myself and advocate for what is wrong. Before I would fear speaking up because I thought I would be in the wrong but now I say it regardless of what others think. Working has also taught me how to socialize and meet new people, people that I honestly would’ve never met if I never started working.
