Balancing school and work is never easy, but for Ms. Frances Yesha Heredia, it became a powerful learning experience, one that shaped her into the professional she is today.
In April 2024, while still a third-year college student, Ms. Yesha began working as an umbrella girl at Ayala Greenfields Golf Club.
Her work schedule was around four (4) hours a day, which seemed manageable at first. However, combining it with academic demands quickly became a real challenge.
Some days, she would review notes while standing on the golf course, waiting for players. Other times, she’d rush straight from work to take a quiz at school, tired but determined. These experiences taught her resilience, time management, and the importance of making every moment count.
Overcoming Challenges Through Discipline
Her biggest hurdle was balancing time and energy.
Fatigue sometimes cut into her study hours, but discipline kept her going. She used breaks and weekends for school work and stayed open with her professors, many of them offered support and flexibility. For Ms. Yesha, effort mattered more than perfection.
Learning Beyond the Golf Course
Her role at the golf club gave her early exposure to business operations, accounting- related tasks, and client service.
She also gained patience, emotional awareness, and the ability to read people. Skills she now finds essential in her accounting career. Attention to detail, honed on the golf course, translated seamlessly into accuracy with numbers.
From Self-Doubt to Self-Growth
Ms. Yesha admits she didn’t become confident overnight.
At first, she thought her role was limited to simple tasks. But as she juggled studies and work, she realized she was capable of more.
“I wouldn’t say I turned super confident overnight. I still have doubts, especially with new accounting concepts. But what changed is how I deal with those doubts. I don’t get easily intimidated anymore. I see challenges as chances to grow.”
She also learned patience, with herself most of all. Just like in golf, some days are great, some are tough. Instead of perfection, she focuses on steady effort and small daily improvements.
No matter the role, umbrella girl or accounting staff, she holds deep respect for every job’s value and dignity.
