Hello! Me again

I left my homeland, China, when I was 16, landing on the other side of the earth, fully aware that this journey would completely change my life. Interestingly, it was my ignorance that kept me from feeling afraid in the first place. Didn't expect this, but the moment I stepped out of the plane, I cried for the first time that year. At that moment, I realized that I couldn't look back; I needed to take a deep breath and step forward. Being fresh off the boat gave me the opportunity to start my life anew. It's bittersweet if I were to describe it. From a dependent, shy girl to an independent, confident woman, I've experienced numerous ups and downs, and I'm grateful for these experiences.

After studying high school in Barrie for 1.5 years, I graduated and gained admission to a local college. I chose the tourism major because I fell in love with traveling: I grew and learned so much away from my family in a completely different living environment. College life doesn't feel too long ago, yet it passed by swiftly. I juggled various jobs simultaneously, engaged in a lot of volunteering, made friends, and graduated with honors. Oh, I must mention completing my co-op term at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and participating in a two-month study abroad program in France—remarkable experiences and memories I never could have imagined before coming to Canada.

Thanks to my marketing ambassador role in college, I gained experience in executing social media plans and organizing events. This was the main reason I was suitable for my first job after graduation. I vividly recall my happiness upon receiving the call from HR, offering me the position of Junior Marketing Coordinator. And just like that, I moved to Collingwood. This town has a certain magic, and I believe I'll always remember living there. Fortunately, within a year, I was promoted to Marketing Coordinator, then to Senior Marketing Coordinator, and now I'm a Junior Marketing Advisor.

It's no surprise that I didn't possess all the practical marketing knowledge when I first started. Through consistent online studying and practical experience with my team, I've grown professionally in many aspects. Shifting from social media, graphic design, and social ad campaigns to data analysis, website design, and project management, I've found immense enjoyment and satisfaction working in digital marketing. Even now, I'm dedicated to expanding my knowledge in my career and other interesting endeavors. (Fun fact: I have a boat license but no boat, haha!)
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At the end of 2021, I decided to leave my full-time job and return to China after three years away to visit my family. During my time back home, I enrolled in a one-month professional photography course to enhance my skills. Additionally, I made the decision for my next step upon returning to Canada: attending York University for a Bachelor's program in Information Technology with a minor in Marketing.
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Thank you for your interest and reading my story, and if we happen to run into each other, be sure to say hi :))
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To be continued.