Memorable Moments in My Corporate Life: Lessons Learned and Growth

Each of the last days I had at a particular workplace is such a nice move to try something new and different. In my corporate journey, I've had several memorable experiences that have shaped who I am today. From being a trainee in interior design to a supervisor on a construction site and even as an intern in special education, every role has taught me invaluable lessons and brought its own unique challenges and successes.

Interior Designer Trainee

Seven years ago, I started my professional journey as an interior designer trainee. One of my first tasks was to draft floor plans using AutoCAD from a print. With great effort and precision, I ensured that columns were aligned in straight lines with relevant dimensions. I also included architectural floor plans with walls, windows, ventilators, and doors, along with their accurate dimensions. Most importantly, I pointed the north direction of the plot to ensure accuracy.

When I presented my work, my superiors were amazed. They had underestimated my ability to grasp the structural and technical aspects of the work. This experience taught me the importance of attention to detail and the belief in one's abilities, even when faced with skepticism.

Construction Site Supervisor

Five years ago, I took on the role of a construction site supervisor for a hospital renovation project. It was a challenging task, as the site was active with laborers working tirelessly to transform a space into a safe and functional environment. However, it was a time that taught me the importance of safety and care for my colleagues.

Every day, I witnessed laborers being injured while removing tiles from the walls. These injuries were not only physically painful but also deeply distressing for me to see. I proposed to my employer that we provide footwear that could offer a barrier, reducing skin injuries from sharp tiles. Additionally, I ensured that all laborers wore helmets and boots, significantly reducing the number of injuries. I also carried a first-aid box to assist in treating minor injuries.

Working in this capacity was not just about reducing accidents; it was about creating a culture of safety and care. These experiences in a high-stress environment pushed me to think critically and proactively, ensuring that the well-being of others was always a top priority.

Special Education Intern

Three years ago, as an intern in special education, I encountered a challenging scenario. A student in my class had a vision difficulty and would often lie down, playing with a bangle on her head. Whenever a teacher or volunteer tried to interact with her, she would scream and push them away, refusing to explore any objects other than her bangle.

Faced with this situation, I was determined to help her. I tied a musical toy to a soft rope and suspended it from a height where she could reach, at her eye level. Initially, she pushed the toy repeatedly, but due to its suspension from a rope, it would eventually land back on her table. I slowly pushed the toy towards her side, making sure she didn't feel my presence, to avoid her natural aversion to people.

Over time, the student started playing with the toy, engaging in a new activity that brought her joy. This was a significant breakthrough, and it filled me with a deep sense of satisfaction. Solving this problem not only helped me appreciate my own capabilities but also reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact on others' lives.

These experiences in my corporate life have taught me the importance of perseverance, creativity, and empathy. They have shown me that every challenge, no matter how daunting, can be transformed into an opportunity for growth and improvement.

Whether it's delivering precise designs, ensuring safety, or creating a nurturing environment for students with special needs, the lessons I've learned have prepared me for the diverse challenges I face today. These are the moments that have made my corporate journey truly memorable and fulfilling.