Working as a Fulfillment Associate for Amazon was a very eye-opening experience that taught me some valuable life lessons, including empathy and respect, as well as the importance of taking initiative and working hard to achieve goals. I had the opportunity to interact with people from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. This exposure provided a unique opportunity for me to put myself in other people's shoes and develop a deep appreciation for the people I worked with. My manager Anisa, played a huge role in my growth and understanding of what it means to be a dedicated team member. Despite her managerial position, she didn't hesitate to take on the most difficult tasks around the facility which most likely weren't in her job description. Her commitment to her team and willingness to do the hard work alongside her subordinates set an exceptional example for everyone in the warehouse.

Anisa's dedication inspired me and my other fellow workers to strive for excellence in our roles. Her actions showed me that real leadership is not about authority but about being a role model. I learned that true leaders lead by example. There were nights when I sorted over 1200 packages per shift because I wanted Anisa to be proud. This demonstrates my strong work ethic and ability to take initiative. In my time at Amazon, I made it a personal goal to work as hard as Anisa, and I always did my part. This dedication not only helped me personally but also contributed to the overall success and efficiency of the warehouse operations. My experience at Amazon has shaped me into a more empathetic, hardworking, and proactive person.

Joining Massanutten Resort as a zipline attendant in the summer of 2021 was a heartfelt decision for me. After a particularly challenging year in college disrupted by COVID, marked by long hours of programming and academic stress while being isolated, I felt an intense desire for adventure and a break from solitude. The role provided the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and the community. It allowed me to step away from the lockdown and into the open air. The role also helped me develop essential interpersonal skills. I honed my communication abilities and learned to empathize effectively with individuals from many different backgrounds. This experience was great, as it emphasized the importance of teamwork and adaptability, qualities that are essential. Additionally, the incentive of a free ski pass was a significant factor in my decision to work at the resort. It allowed me to enjoy the benefits of the great outdoors even during the winter months. During my time at the resort, I also discovered that when the park wasn't busy, it provided moments of reflection and personal growth. I used this time wisely to explore my creative side through poetry, allowing me to express my thoughts and emotions. Additionally, this summer I had also took on the challenge of completing calculus II, further enhancing my problem-solving skills and dedication to learning.

During my freshman year of college, I wanted to set a positive example and took a job at the university dining hall to work as a chef, an experience that would introduce me to Salal, a remarkable coworker and friend. Salal's story was one of courage and resilience, as he had immigrated from Iraq in search of a better life. Salal's journey to the United States was marked by significant challenges and hardships. Fleeing a war-torn homeland, he sought refuge and a chance for a brighter future for himself and his family. His struggles included adapting to a new culture, learning a new language, and navigating the complexities of immigration. Our paths crossed in the kitchen of the dining hall, where we both worked tirelessly to prepare meals for the college community. Despite the demanding nature of our job, 's spirit remained unbroken. He was unfailingly kind and gracious. One of the memorable aspects of our friendship was our shared responsibility for cleaning the hoods after long shifts. This tedious task required teamwork and attention to detail, and it provided us with a quiet opportunity to bond. As we scrubbed away the remnants of the day's cooking, we often shared stories of our respective journeys, dreams, and hopes for the future. Salal's friendship and example served as a constant reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding. Despite the challenges he faced and the prejudices he occasionally encountered, he always treated others with respect and kindness. Our time working together in that college dining hall left a lasting impression on me. Salal's story of perseverance and our enduring friendship served as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit.