What's your job about?

As a Learning and Development Assistant, my primary role is to support employee growth and organizational development. The company provides training programs to enhance employees’ skills and competencies, ensuring alignment with the company’s goals. In my day-to-day tasks, I coordinate training sessions, manage logistics, track attendance, and assess the effectiveness of the programs. Recently, I successfully launched and completed a part-time management training program for internal employees that spanned four months. This involved designing the curriculum, coordinating with SMEs, tracking progress, and evaluating outcomes. My work involves creating opportunities for employees to learn and grow, fostering a productive and motivated workforce.

What's your background?

I was born in Kuwait but grew up in Quezon City. I graduated with a degree in Psychology from the University of Santo Tomas in 2022. My interest in learning and development began during my undergraduate years, inspired by one of my professors who shared her experiences working in Learning and Development early in her career. Her passion for helping others grow resonated with me and sparked my curiosity about this field. This is my first job, which I landed after being referred by a close friend from college. I’ve been in this role for two years. This journey has allowed me to grow professionally while contributing to others’ growth.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Yes, someone with a different background could do my job, provided they possess strong organizational skills, effective communication abilities, and a passion for helping others grow. Experience in project management, training coordination, or education would also be valuable. A background in psychology or HR can offer an advantage.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

The best part of my job is witnessing the tangible impact of training programs on employees. One of my proudest moments was launching a management training program that lasted four months. Seeing participants develop new skills, take on leadership roles, and achieve career milestones is incredibly rewarding. I also love the variety in my role – no two days are the same, as each project brings unique challenges and opportunities to learn.

What are the limitations of your job?

One limitation is the high level of coordination and multitasking required, which can be overwhelming when managing multiple programs. Deadlines can overlap, and balancing priorities is essential. Additionally, keeping employees engaged, especially during virtual or mandatory training sessions, can be challenging. Tailoring programs to meet diverse learning needs requires constant creativity and adaptability. Occasionally, I also work on Saturdays to oversee or coordinate training sessions that cater to employees’ schedules, ensuring that program accessibility for everyone.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...

1. Focus on building soft skills like communication, adaptability, and teamwork—they are just as important as technical knowledge in any career.
2. Take extracurricular activities seriously; they help you discover career interests and build valuable connections.
3. Be open to new challenges. Stepping out of your comfort zone, such as by leading projects or joining extracurricular activities, will prepare you for roles like the one you have now.