Starting your career at 18? Sounds scary, right? But it's like getting a golden ticket to future success, and hey, don't even think that working means waving goodbye to your studies. Yeah, I get it – it's a bit of a challenge. Everyone in your life, even your principal and teachers, might be all like, "No, don't do it. Don't ruin your grades. Jobs can wait till you're done studying." They mean well, but you know your situation and what you’re capable of. What worked for them may not work for you.

Living in the 21st Century in a time of inflation, I feel it's important for us to start working in our teenage years. It's like a crash course in life that we totally need. Besides, teenagers across the globe embrace part-time jobs while juggling their education. By the time they turn 18, many parents encourage them to become self-sufficient, covering their personal expenses, possibly even living on their own, all the while managing education side by side.

Talking about my experience, being the youngest in the family while growing up, I was spoiled and pampered by everyone. Yet I didn't like relying on anyone – independence all the way! As for spending – let's just say I have a thing for grandeur. However, there was always an urge to stand on my own feet while still being young, and always dreamt of my first job to be in an MNC because corporate life was always super intriguing.

The day I hit 18, bam! I jumped into the work world while hustling to nail my A2 exams and wrap up A levels. Initially, I told myself, "Let's see how this goes – working for a few months, maybe?" But surprise, surprise! Everything changed when I stepped into ibex. It was a rollercoaster of a ride with the best people I could ask for. I got Employee of the Month in the first month of working and so much more that my perspective about working for a few months took a 180-degree turn, wanting to continue working without putting a pause on my studies.

Fast forward to August when college started, and there I was – head spinning with managing both, work and studies together. Panic mode activated! Regretting my decision to work. So, I poured my heart out to my supervisor, and you know what? She totally got me – like, "I feel you!" Plus, she dropped some invaluable insights from her own experience. Told me ibex. is always there to support me. That was the moment I realized that this place was where I belonged. ibex. has consistently aided me with my education, whether it involves tailoring my work schedule to fit my college hours or allowing me some time off for my exams. ibex. has always supported me and made work 100 times easier and more manageable.

Working at an early age made me realize the importance of launching your career early. I started scoring those achievements while others are still hitting snooze. By the time you’re in your 20s, you are already ticking off goals that most people chase in their 30s. Let's not forget about the magic of independence. For me, it's not just about being able to afford the aesthetic restaurants; it's about making things work on your own terms. Like A levels is quite expensive, but with self-reliance, I tried to ease the load on my parents. Financing A levels on my own and saving up for the university I had my eye on, making my parents proud.

Talking about studies, the transition from O levels to A levels is a formidable challenge. The struggle is real – grades might play hard to get, leaving you with that straight-up U you weren't bargaining for. Let's be honest, college life can be a total vortex of excitement until crunch time hits, leading to inevitable regrets. However, working side by side adds a sense of responsibility. You'll have to not only manage your studies but also work, which teaches us multitasking as you have to balance both side by side.

Despite everything, managing work and studies simultaneously turned out to be a secret weapon for me. It not only enhanced my performance during interviews but also boosted my self-assurance and sharpens my street-smart sensibilities in real-life situations. Moreover, you'll soon realize that you're not alone. There are so many people in the same boat as you, skillfully handling the balance between work and studies. If so many can successfully navigate this path, I firmly believe that you can too. So, what are you waiting for? Join ibex. to kickstart your career. Apply now!