Biola University

Lifeguard

May 2018 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

I liked the staff that I worked with this summer and the ability to build unity through community. We strove to do our job well and also have fun at the same time. It was a laid back environment in terms of taking leadership, but we equally shared in taking initiative and setting goals.

What I wish was different

The only thing that I wish had been more different may have been more training sessions throughout the summer to keep refreshed on our training and techniques.

Advice

I would say to anyone interested in becoming a lifeguard to really take the time to self-evaluate and consider if they are mentally, emotionally, and physically capable of jumping into a job that requires most of your attention and energy. I think that even if you think you might not do well, you should at least give it a shot, but to also realize what you are getting into it because it isn't the most flexible or easy job to do.

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Conference Services Host

May - August 2018 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

What I wish was different

Advice

If you want a job with a lot of consistent hours, work at conference services!

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Organic Chemistry Research Assistant

May 2018 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

There were two great things that stand out when I look back at my time so far as an organic chemistry research assistant at Biola. First, I received in-depth experience in the procedures and nuances of a laboratory setting. Coming in, I was incredibly uncertain in the lab, but now I would consider it a strength. Second, the community and camaraderie was really felt among the other interns. Spurred on by our professors, a community had formed by the end of the summer.

What I wish was different

There is no one thing that comes to mind about what I wish had been different. I had an overall splendid time and am very pleased with both the staff and my other interns.

Advice

Dive in. Make sure you ask a lot of questions and write everything down. No, seriously, write everything down. It will save a lot of time down the road.

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Life Guard and Swim Instructor

May 2018 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

I really enjoyed working with the children that I had and making friends with the other guards and instructors.

What I wish was different

I wish that I had had more of a consistent work week where I was constantly paid.

Advice

I would say that this job was great but go into it expecting to get frustrated with the kids at times and not getting as many hours as you want.

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AVL Technician

August 2015 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

Administration and Organization

What I wish was different

More times for feedback

Advice

You'll be strengthened

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Custodial Worker

June 2018 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

Friendly people.

What I wish was different

Nothing.

Advice

It's a great job, and you'll learn some integrity if you work every day.

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Dorm Setup Crew

May 2018 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

I was able to work a lot of hours (40) and always have my weekends free by working a regular 8-5 schedule. Also enjoyed that it was physical/manual labor

What I wish was different

Advice

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Stewart Research Assistant

May - July 2018 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

I liked the opportunity to continue my research at Biola and mentor up and coming students in the sciences. I got to interact more with the professors than I would during the school year and learn more research techniques at a much faster pace.

What I wish was different

Advice

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Psychologist Research Assistant

May 2018 • Bangkok, Bangkok Metropolitan Region

What I liked

Conducting phenomenological research on the experience of mental health professionals in a country where psychology is still rather undervalued and underrepresented was incredibly educational and moving. On top of that, I was able to get my first hands-on experience conducting my own self-directed research which has peaked my interest for pursuing a doctorate in psychology.

What I wish was different

I wish I had more time to work on my research, especially the amount of field work time I had in Thailand. My on-site research was limited to only one month.

Advice

Take the time to prepare well for research. It will make a world of a difference when you begin collecting data.

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I.T. Helpdesk Representative

September 2017 • La Mirada, CA

What I liked

Fantastic community. Love working and learning along these guys. Great mentorship and I learned a great deal of communication and technical skills that are applicable to my field.

What I wish was different

Our department was a bit short staffed

Advice

Ask questions! Don't be afraid to look like you don't know things. Asking questions shows you're invested in learning the trade and builds relationship with your superiors.

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