• BACKGROUND:

My parents seem to have multiple occupations, when asked, my father had said they were both builders (developers)  and real estate agents (both buyer and seller agents). On Wednesday in particular, I was brought to a client’s house with my mother where they discussed of the excess furniture and further questions amongst other things. However, it appears that the details were already agreed upon since the client had signed a document (not too sure what of). As for what I had done, I merely listened, attempted to understand, and translated what they had said in my mind because they were communicating in another language. Thus, I did not exactly have any responsibilities, mainly because this was between my mother and her client and I did not want to disturb (I also would not be of any use). Afterwards, I did ask questions on things I did not understand and she clarified. All in all, it was an odd experience because I was not aware of some of the things my parents did, but it was definitely worth going.

• REFLECTION

1. What is one new thing you learned in this experience or one thing that surprised you?

Perhaps it was due to how familiar my mother was with the client, but I had always considered there to be this atmospheric tension when significant topics were brought forth such as selling a building. Instead, the two chatted casually conversed as old friends, they soon switched topics after business and talked of their personal lives.

2. What appeals to you about this career pathway?

From what I see everyday, my parents do not have a routine job that requires for them to attend work in a specific time frame. This means that it is flexible as they often get to negotiate on times with the clients instead of it being one-sided. Also, unlike some other occupations, my parents have a large quantity of business even though they do work under a company.

3. What about the environment would motivate you to wake up every day to attend work?

My parents mainly work at home in their respective offices, or even their rooms (obviously asides from attending showings or opening house doors). This could be a contentious topic, but I believe that working at a comfy environment, such as your own home, does motivate you. For me, I would ultimately be more content waking up knowing that my job takes place in a safe and comfortable atmosphere rather than a workplace with unfamiliar people.

4. What would discourage you from waking up every day to attend work?

I fervently believe that working in an industry  that does not follow your interests is not advantageous in the long run even if income does come in.  For me, having a career that is correlated to my passions will sway me to stay in that path for a longer while.