Over the years, I have learned that the job I end up doing is normally never the one I planned.
When I graduated at 22 with a degree in Linguistics and Literature, I was so sure I would end up in an advertising agency. Many of my friends did, and honestly, it felt like the obvious path for someone like me. If I am being specific—Dentsu was the dream. I even made it to the final stages once, and I still remember exactly how I felt writing the email to turn it down.
I said yes to something else first—an organization that helps young startups scale their businesses. That was out of respect and commitment. But I never forgot.
And then, almost by accident, I landed in Tourism and Hospitality.
A job invitation was meant for a friend. Her heart was somewhere else, so she forwarded it to me and said, just send your CV. I did. And that was the first time I heard names like Amanoi, Four Seasons, Sheraton.
Well. Welcome to making people happy.
Years later, I was still in Travel—and completely in love with it. Sometimes it was the pride of helping someone have their once-in-a-lifetime trip. Sometimes it was simply sharing the beauty and warmth of Vietnam and Asia with the world.
Right now, I am in Community Management and Communications (still in Travel? Yes hahaha). Buuuut who knows where life takes me next.
There is another thing I keep coming back to: Technology and Product Management. I do not fully know why, but it feels close. So I am learning, exploring, and saying yes to whatever opportunities show up. It has been really fun!
And if I imagine retirement? Teaching. Sharing. Something in education. EdTech, maybe.
My motto has always been:
If you are not sleepy, go explore something. But if you are sleepy — sleep.
So, let’s explore. More and more. At least now I am not sleepy hahaha