My adventure of getting my first job at Santa Rosa Junior College

Today was a big day for me — my first office job interview. I got ready early, dressed nicely, and even said an extra prayer last night for good luck, hoping everything would go smoothly. The interview was scheduled for 3 p.m., but by noon, I was already fully prepared. I had spent the morning watching online videos about common interview questions, trying to anticipate what might come up. 

Job prep support

None of this preparation would have been possible without the guidance I received from my counseling class teacher. She taught us about job culture and how to prepare for interviews, emphasizing the importance of being ready for any type of interview, regardless of the position. The career hub at SRJC also helped me with my resume.

I got the job!

Thanks to her teachings and my preparations, the next day brought good news — a phone call offering me the job. I was overjoyed yet nervous, knowing this would be my first real work experience. Terms like supervisor, assistant, and director were all new to me, and suddenly, the place where I used to seek help became my workplace. The office feels like something out of a movie — everyone in their own cubicle, focused on their work.

It’s not just about the job tasks

Keeping our International Student Program (ISP) alive on social media is a big part of my job. The more I think about my job, the more I realize that attitude towards your coworkers is as crucial as the skills you have — it's even part of the skill set itself. Skills can be learned and honed over time through practice, but maintaining the right attitude often reflects your personality.

Learning to ask when I have questions

Initially, I hesitated to ask questions, fearing I might disturb others. Fortunately, all my coworkers and ISP staff are incredibly helpful and welcoming. Even when I made mistakes, they patiently guided me to find solutions and taught me how to prevent similar issues in the future. Day by day as I work here, I understand my job better and continue to learn new things.

Job bonuses!

One of the best parts of my job is when a coworker celebrates their birthday by bringing in cakes and treats for everyone. We often create a beautiful birthday card with heartfelt notes inside. Some coworkers decorate their desks in fun and personal ways, adding plants, candies, and other interesting decorations. Conversations about lunches, weekend plans, and bringing ice cream for the whole office just because it is a hot day, all these actions help me understand the job culture here better.

While these activities aren't necessarily part of our job responsibilities, they truly highlight the supportive atmosphere we have here. Spending half of our day in this office, these small gestures are what make our student work environment fun, lively, and a great place to polish our skills.

Thu Aung from Myanmar is studying humanities at Santa Rosa Junior College in California.