It's unbelievable that how quickly 2020 has flown by. In just few months, much of our way of life has changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Like it or not, mask-wearing, social distancing and travel restrictions have become an inevitable part of our daily life. Everyone keep saying that 2020 was the worst year (Judging from the way 2021 started, 2021 might be worse than 2020), however the eventful year shouldn't be an excuse to stop enjoying life and improving ourselves. Upon a late reflection on my year of 2020, I observe a handful of changes and milestones during the year which are worth remembering.
1. Graduation
I graduated from university and earned my Bachelor's degree in the midst of pandemic. The lockdown happened after the day I played sports with my classmates. We neither get a chance to say a proper goodbye, nor embrace the end of student life memorably. Nevertheless, I am grateful that the pandemic only happened at the very end of my university life. Throughout these three-years of my degree, my classmates and I had built friendship and created precious bittersweet memories together. Although I favor the flexibility of online learning, the human interactions in traditional classes are irreplaceable, especially the "lepak" and "makan" sessions after classes which made my university life more complete. Many are disappointed at their graduation without the ceremony and celebration, but I find that making the most of my time at university places greater significance over attending the ceremony. Graduation does not mean cutting ties with my university mates. All of us would move on and pursue our new life, but our memories never fade, true friendship never end.
2. Job Hunting
Graduating is both scary and exciting. On one hand, it's a major milestone signifying achievements, hard work and the start of a new chapter. On the flip side, graduating is equivalent to the beginning of adulthood which is filled with uncertainties and responsibilities. Graduating in the pandemic-riddled world increase the difficulties faced by the class of 2020 in their job hunting process - changing business climate, fragile economy, political instability and tough job market.
I am fortunate to graduate at the point of time where the lockdown was gradually lifted and the government had rolled out strategies to boost economy recovery. Hence, I had successfully secured a job in one of the Big 4 accounting firms within one month after my graduation. Unfortunately, this first job of mine did not meet my expectations in the aspects of job responsibilities, career prospects and work environment. My challenging job hunting journey continued until I received offer for my current job. Job switching was again filled with unpredictability, seeing the third wave of COVID-19 outbreak began. My anxiety only ended when I finally collected my company laptop!
3. Working
The transition from a student to a working adult is a big deal as it is not only about adapting to work life, but also surviving the "real world". Work is different from school - in workforce, failing to meet your job responsibilities spells more serious and immediate consequences. Our boss is not obliged to pay us just because we are hired. Instead we only deserve the paycheck and promotions by becoming the value contributor to the company.
Thankfully, my experience in extra curricular activities, part time job and internship had contributed to my smooth transition from collegiate life to working professional life. Even the awful experience and painful life lesson learnt from my first job had prepared me to handle my current job responsibilities better. As an entry-level staff, my job performance has met the expectations, but I know that I have to always keep improving and upskilling. There is still long way to go - I am a work in progress.
4. Driving
The most exciting thing happened during my adulthood is buying a new car and started driving! Despite getting my driving license few years ago, I didn't drive for years as I didn't have a car and my plea to have a car had fallen on deaf ears. I opine that driving signifies independence, freedom and convenience, which is incomparable to the options of calling grab and taking public transportation. Especially now with pandemic, I feel more comfortable to have car as my personal space, rather than sharing public space. My parents can now care less about one thing, in exchange I could run errands for them and drive my siblings.
Although owning new car comes with monthly commitment and car related expenses, I find the benefits of gaining a lifelong skill outweighing the costs. My parents have started to view me more of a responsible young adult, rather than a kid who's always trying hard to fit into their schedule for a ride. I can enjoy impromptu hangout with friends or travel without worrying much about the Grab fare and time arrangements. Besides, I have learned to plan our expenses properly to ensure that I could meet my monthly commitment while achieve other financial goals.
5. Becoming ACCA Affiliate
Honestly, the excitement of passing all ACCA examinations on first attempt and becoming ACCA affiliate didn't last long. I am more relieved at the fact that I don't have to waste money to resit any papers. The idea of no longer have to deal with exam pressure is more thrilling! Besides, getting the affiliate title means an increase in annual subscription fees. Luckily, one of the perks of working in Big 4 accounting firms is the eligiblity to claim annual subscription fees for our professional membership.
As I have ventured into a non-accounting pathway, I've been reflecting on my choice of gaining an ACCA membership, which has cost a fortune. Back then, I was given a misconception that having a professional qualification would be equivalent to a high pay job, which turned out to be partially untrue. My pay is on par with the market rate, but some of my peers in other industries without professional qualifications are making more money.
Nevertheless, I should view my professional qualification beyond the monetary returns. Gaining knowledge is what makes my professional qualification valuable, alongside with my work experience and other must-have skills. Instead of being short-termism, I should look into the long term potential career progression and increment. The job market is getting increasingly competitive and earning the title of ACCA Affiliate is no longer sufficient. Lifelong learning and upskilling is crucial.
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