My first payslip:


Ok, maybe it isn't as impressive as a hardcopy one, but hey, the substance counts more than the form, right?

I find it almost hard to believe that it's already been one month since I started work at GE. And well, I do feel a sense of job satisfaction with the tasks that I've been given. At least they aren't the 'mundane' sorta work one would expect to receive as an intern. They do require brain-work, which I'm actually glad for. And yes, I've actually been able to apply what I've learnt in uni! Seriously... E.g. variance analysis for my cash flow model (which I'm to do from scratch), writing a completely new GST manual for the business' finance dept (SYL would be proud).

Of course there's much more ahead, and today I had a slight taste of 'politics', if one could call it that. What happened was that I got ready to leave the office at about 6.15pm, which is already later than my usual 5.30pm disappear time. And one of my colleagues commented, "Wah, today stay so late ah?" And me being me, I didn't catch the 'sacarsm' behind that comment until one of my other colleagues pointed it out to me. I laughed it away and explained that I'm more of an early bird, i.e. I prefer getting to work at 7plus and leaving early, rather than sleeping in late and leaving late. But of course, no one sees the early bird; the late bird seems more 'glamourous'. Whatever the case, my direct manager did say that it's results that counts, no matter what time span the job is done in. Then again, I may be idealistic in taking that at face value; after all, perception is reality. Staying late is perceived as hardworking; leaving early, well, you can tell what comes next.

But anyhow, my conscience is clear. I've been completing my work well and on time, my manager's been giving me good evaluations, so why should I be penalised for leaving early? I refuse to be drawn in to the whole "stay back to show face"... tho it sometimes IS easier said than done.

The working world truly IS a whole different world. Good challenge.

And thank GOD that I don't face it alone. Holy Spirit, You are faithful, and I need Your wisdom, guidance, companionship and comfort more than ever.