There are few things that frustrate me more than people thinking that they’re better than others just because of the job they have. I’m currently studying medicine, but I have definitely had jobs that are frowned upon.

So, a few years ago, I had just graduated from college and was in that gap year where I was waiting to go to medical school, and I thought to myself, you know what I should do now? Finally get a job.  

I know that sounds weird. But seriously, I had never had a real job before. Growing up, my parents really prioritized college. I had to go to college, my entire childhood was leading up to it. They didn’t want me to get a job, mostly because they were afraid when I started earning money, I would become enamored with it and want to drop out of school. It really frustrated me. Over the summers I had always wanted to work as a barista or something, but my parents just never let me. Honestly, being a barista is so romanticized, isn't it? The hum of machines, the smell of fresh coffee, the chatter of people, and the strangely satisfying sound of whipped cream being sprayed from a can; it all probably seems wonderful until you have that job. Anyways, I think having a job earlier on is important, but my parents just have this strange fear. Must be a first generation thing.

What kind of job did I want? Well, of course, I’m trying to be a doctor. But, gosh, if I could be anything I wanted, I would want to be a screenwriter. That sounds like so much fun. I can imagine myself with a cup of steaming hot coffee in my hand and a laptop in front of me, my fingernails tapping lightly against the keys as I type out ridiculously creative storyline. Oh! I’d also want to be a diplomat. Being secretary of state would be awesome.

    But of course, those weren’t the kinds of jobs I was looking for. While thinking of (realistic) jobs, I had this crazy idea. How cool would it be if I became a bartender? My parents were very against it, but I had my mind made up. So I learned how to make all those drinks and I actually really liked it. I remember trying to time myself, seeing how fast I could mix things together and slam a glass on the counter, the noise ringing through my head minutes later. It was methodical and systematic, and I love working with systems, so that was very enjoyable. High stress, but enjoyable.

   So, that was my job. Again, it was a lot of fun. There’s so much diversity out there and I got to witness it firsthand. I got used to the clinking of glasses and the loud voices of so many different kinds of people. Talking to people was definitely my favorite part.

   People, to me, are just the best part of any job. I think through that job I learned that I need to be able to interact with people to enjoy working. I also realized that I had picked a good future career (a doctor) because I can’t imagine myself not doing physical work. Sitting still and just wringing my hands in front of a desk sounds like something that would give me high anxiety.

Of course, there were a few downsides to the job. Gingerly picking up broken glass off the floor wasn’t very entertaining, and sweeping up those glittering bits with a dusty broom with a worn down handle? Just as uncomfortable. Busy nights could also could be overwhelming. And, people, as fun as they were to talk to, could also be a little unpleasant when drunk.

I guess what I’m trying to point out here is that being a bartender is just like being anything else.  There are up and downs to the job, but depending on what you like to do, it can be an overall nice experience.

What frustrates me though, is when people look down on people with jobs like these. No matter how educated or professional you think you are, you don’t have an accuse to treat people like they’re lesser than you are.

We’re all human and I think we’re all more similar than we’d think. No matter where I end up in the future, I’m always gonna keep that in mind.