Story By Maridel Hubahib
Photos By ABM Grade 12 Students
One of the best parts of my senior high school days was the Work Immersion Program. Why not? Work immersion gave me the opportunity to experience my dream job for 10 days and it gave me a pre-taste of what working actually feels like?
When I was a kid, I would often wonder what life would be like if I were working in a bank. That short 10 days gave me a chance to satisfy a part of my curiosity. I experienced working in one of the country’s biggest and most trusted finance institution together with amazing people. Proudly, I can now say that the Philippine National Bank (PNB) is on my resume.
It was a cloudy day when our Day 1 started. We were a bit late when we came to the bank. Briefly, I scanned the place and saw the branch manager Mrs. Maria Osilla Molina busy reading important documents. The hesitation in our smiles was erased when she smiled back. We were after all, a combination of nerves and excitement.
After calling each of our names for attendance check, Mrs. Molina told us that she has always believed in the old maxim that first impression lasts. She counseled that if we were to apply for a job, we need to looks and dress for that job. Expensive clothes are not necessary but, at least, any applicant must look decent.
Our first day started with that simple lesson.
I actually expected that all students in the Immersion Program just had to sit down all day, chill and observe the surroundings. It turned out, however, that our manager had another plan in mind. Mrs. Molina assigned us to the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners Department.
We took charge of updating the profile of pensioners, surviving beneficiaries or spouses. We made sure that their accounts and documents get updated before the cut off. Sometimes, we would hear heartrending stories of pensioners who were not able to receive their pension because their updates didn’t make it to the cut off. Mostly, they would use the money for their medications.
Some of them, already old and grey, travelled from distant places like Canlaon City, Calatrava or even from Cebu towns for the ACOP. Part of my fulfillment from the Immersion Program was that I know I have at least assisted them.
Another aspect of my experience that I love so much was the bank staff and employees who are all friendly and approachable. They may not speak much during their work hours but they always made sure that at the end of the day they could at least have time for us and share lessons on banking and career in general.
Life lessons were included, too.
Some of the life lessons were given was about the value of action over words. They also taught us about the importance of having a positive attitude in the workplace because it is not intelligence that will give the authority to control and manage but attitude and behavior. Positive vibes always attract a good following.
Most importantly, our banking mentors taught us that putting God first and accepting His will and plan for us is the best career strategy.
We also got the chance to tour the whole bank, except of course for the restricted areas. PNB in San Carlos City may be an old building that has gone through several transformations, but it’s fully alive because of its management and staff.
The days passed with the speed of light. I realized that once our Work Immersion Program teacher told us that we were the “Lucky 6” because we were assigned at PNB. Our teacher is indeed right. But beyond lucky, we were blessed with an immersion assignment at PNB San Carlos because it is a formidable banking institution and its army of bankers is inspiring and nurturing to young aspirants like us.
