VA “Sophia”
Hello Sophia! Tell us a little about yourself first.
Hello my name is Sophia, I am 20 years old, a college working student taking up Tourism. I am the eldest sibling in my family and I love reading books like 101 essays that change the way you think, I do my reading usually in the morning. I have an unusual way of doing a recap on the books I read. After reading I explain the book to myself, this helps me understand it deeper. I also play music with my Ukulele to relax although my siblings say it is out of tune and usually leaves the room. I traveled to Japan for a few months but due to the pandemic I had to go back and is taking school more seriously. I went through problems in the beginning but have been slowly adjusting. I am also undergoing treatment for hyperthyroidism but it has not been a hindrance in pursuing my goals.
What was your profession before you became a VA?
Before working for IVA PRO I was an ESL teacher, I used to do powerpoint english lessons not your typical simple conversational lessons which some of the clients prefer. I also had experience working for a company in Korea selling watches. I also edited social media posts in Canva, but overall that only lasted for 3 months before the company closed down and they left us with unpaid salaries, this led me to get scared to apply again working for a company that is not on site as I might get scammed again.
How is your IVA PRO Experience?
Looking for work as a student with little experience is difficult, I encountered more than a few problems. Fortunately, with the help of my mother, Mhay I was referred to IVA PRO. The work from home set up made it easier for me as I am still pursuing my studies, that includes being flexible with my time. Before I used to work about four hours a day in the closing shift of my client's Gym business. That means less people and less chances for me to practice my language skills. So I asked to be moved on to the opening shift.
With this came new challenges and difficulties, sometimes I encounter irate and angry members that I am not able to help. So I asked for help from my mom and I also got great advice from Maam Crysta, Do not let your fear get a hold of you. I took this to heart. Gradually I became better at assisting members and that helped boost my confidence. I am still not confident with my communication skills but I still give my best.
In today’s time being a working student is not shameful anymore. Even my classmates were shocked at one point when I disclosed in class that I was already working. The feeling of working and earning for yourself is satisfying. Not only does it help me, I can also help lighten the burden on our family finances. With my first salary I actually went out and treated my family in S&R and asked them to get their favorite food. Sharing my earnings with them felt like a blessing and that made me very happy. They also tell me that they are proud of what I have accomplished even though I have not gotten any big awards.
Share with us some of your achievements.
My Achievements:
Treat my family and relatives by renting a private resort is my biggest achievement.
Pay for my treatments
Help in Finances with my family and studies
Working Student but still pursuing my dreams
Working with my mom
Do you have any message for IVA PRO?
I am blessed and extremely thankful for the chance that was given to me by IVA PRO. They did not judge me for being a young student and not able to contribute as much to work because of my inexperience. I appreciate that they do not judge your character or educational attainment but more on what you can do. Miss Crysta has been instrumental in helping me with my communication skills. She has been a pillar in my growth in IVA. Everyone in IVA treats you well, no judgment and believes and accepts you on what you can do. Because of IVA PRO I am now able to pay for my treatments.
Any message to future aspiring VA’s?
As a student and someone who does not have a lot of experience yet I went through different challenges. Find out what you want. In achieving your goals you need strength through the challenges, have faith especially in moving forward. It is always hard in the beginning but as soon as you have started, try and don’t stop trying. For every rejection we must learn something new and be better. Believing in yourself is crucial as well as support from family and friends. Dream not only for yourself but also for your family and their future.
