Good day hivers,its me again 
this is where I work/ taking picture before entering my workplace
The screams of my alarm at 6:00 AM, a vibrate start to a day that is already been going on for hours.My eyes are feeling heavy,my body also aches but the thought of the day ahead pushes me out of bed.After a few hours ago,I was preparing for my my shift at Nustar Fili which is one of Cebu City's most prestigious casino hotels.
taking picture before I start my work
Now,I am a student and ready to face another day of lectures,discussions, and exams.It is a exhausted schedule but it is my schedule and I would not trade it for anything.
with my classmate who always help me
My journey as a working student was not easy but let's be honest it was not easy at first.finishing work at 2 or 3 in the morning after a long demanding shift and only to have to be in class by 7:00 in the morning.
during my class
Sleep? What's sleep? 🤣 There were days especially in the beginning when I had find myself nodding off in class and struggling to keep my eyes open but my mind feeling groggy.I felt like I was running on time constantly battling exhaustion.I remember one particularly embarrassing moment when I actually fell asleep during on one of our lecture on programming.The professor paused mid sentence and looked directly at me.The entire class covered with laughter and all that I wanted was to disappear.
meet the conqueror
But as the saying goes,Tough times do not last and tough people do.I was determined to make this work.I had a goal,a goal to finish my education and I was not going to let a little or a lot of sleep hardship stand in my way.Slowly but surely I am adapt this kind of situation.
free meal from the Nustar Fili
I also learned to optimize my sleep schedule,compress in naps whenever possible even if it was just for 20 minutes between classes.I also discovered the power of caffeine, becoming a master of coffee and energy drinks.I also learned to prioritize my time,becoming incredibly organized and be efficient with my studies.Late night study sessions became the norm that fueled by instant noodles and the unwavering belief in myself.
taking this picture while I'm riding a bus
Meet Nustar Fili that became my second home.Getting there was an adventure in itself.Living in Naga City Cebu meant a two-ride commute.
MyBus
First,a bus from Toledo to Cebu City heading to Anjo World in Minganilla then I transfer to a bus in Anjo World in Minganilla which would drop me off in Nustar Fili.Each journey was a test of patience especially during rush hour but I used that time to review my notes,listen to podcasts or simply taking a nap after a long day at school.
Working at Nustar Fili has a long process which was always the same. First stop the office to grab my time card Then a quick stop at the HR department to flash my ID and confirming my employment.
Finally the biometric scan that final hurdle before I could officially start my shift.It was a routine but it was my routine the rhythm of my life.
I worked as a steward/waiter but my favorite part of the job was assisting the chefs.Not only was it interesting to see the culinary magic happen behind the scenes but it also had a very practical perk I got to eat haha 🤣.
Also the convention leaf leftovers as my co-workers were called a lifesaver.And don't worry they were perfectly clean and safe to eat.It was a small perk but it made a big difference especially on those days when I was running low on energy.
Working at Nustar Fili was not just about the paycheck.It was about the experience.I learned so much about the hospitality industry about teamwork and about the importance of customer service.I also learned to deal with difficult situations even to stay calm under pressure and to always put on a smile even when I was exhausted.
with my classmate/my co-worker
One of the unique challenges of working at Nustar Fili was the strict no-selfie policy while on duty or roaming around the mall within the complex.It was understandable because given the high profile nature of the establishment but it also meant that capturing memories with my colleagues was a bit tricky.
Our solution was Bathroom selfies 🤣,And let me tell you the bathrooms at Nustar Fili were something else.They were so luxurious,spacious and so aesthetically pleasing that you could easily mistake them for a VIP lounge.Stepping into one of those bathrooms felt like entering another world in a world of marble countertops,designer fixtures and impeccable cleanliness.It was the perfect backdrop for a quick selfie with my work buddies our way to document our shared experiences,our late night laughs and our triumphs over exhaustion.
my working ID
As time goes by as a working student I am filled with a sense of pride even though it was not easy.There were times when I wanted to quit but when the exhaustion felt overwhelming and when I questioned myself whether I could really do it but I keep going.I pushed through the challenges and be stronger,more resilient and more determined than ever.
My journey as a working student has taught me valuable lessons that I will carry with me throughout my life.It taught me a lot from the importance of hard work,dedication and perseverance.It also taught me the value of time management and organization.It taught me how the power of positive thinking and also the importance of having a strong support system.And most importantly it taught me that anything is possible if you are willing to work for it.
So to all the aspiring working students out there Don't be afraid to chase your dreams even if it means sacrificing sleep and leisure time.It would not be easy but it will be worth it.Embrace the challenges also learn from your mistakes and never give up on your goals just keep going.Remember that the every sleepless nights will eventually give way to shining lights.And when you finally achieve your dreams you all look back on your journey with pride knowing that you earned every single step of that way and who knows maybe you all even have a few hilarious bathroom selfies to remember it all by.
This is me,
What about you?What is your story?I'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
Tara Let's connect!