This week has been an important week in
my family's life. After 39 years of being an HVAC engineer at the
same location, my dad retired. My dad's retirement has come almost
exactly two years after my mom retired from being a nursing
professor at a college. My mom instructed for 30 years. Being a
part of the celebration of these events has taught me how important
it is to choose a career path in life and put 100% effort and
dedication into that path.
Over the years, I've watched my parents love their professions,
through the easy and difficult times. My mom experienced being a
lead person in a union strike while my dad was part of many company
changes. I think one of the most profound impacts observing my
parents and their careers has taught me is to stand in your dream
and stay loyal to it. My parents fell in love with their intended
career path from the moment they were in college. Funny enough,
that is also when they fell in love with each other. In a couple
weeks, my parents will be celebrating their
40th wedding anniversary!
I feel very thankful to have been modeled by two driven and
dedicated parents that base much of their morals on trust, love,
faith, and loyalty. As a result, it has taught me to do the same.
While AOM is my second career path, I feel my first career was
leading me to this path. It was the doorway to this career. I just
had some other paths to walk before being able to realize this
role, fully. In addition to being heartfelt role models, my parents
are by far, my biggest supporters in my education and goals.
After learning my dad retired, I also learned he took another
engineering position at a new location. After 39 years of dedicated
engineering, he still desires to continue in his career path, even
when he clearly has the ability to stop! I find this very
impressive! My mom also took on a new job after retiring, but it is
100% volunteer work! To me, this shows there are always more dreams
and goals to create.
It has been very moving to be in the midst of these endings and
new beginnings for my parents. It is making a powerful impact
watching my two lifelong role models venture into new chapters of
their lives. Additionally, it is very interesting to watch two
people finish more than a 30-year career path in one direction
while I am surrounded by NUHS students preparing to begin their
paths. I wonder what the future holds for all of us. I believe it
will be influential and adventurous!