Architect's Meteoric Rise: From Intern to Professional in Just 8 Months

• Phoebe Mueni progressed from being an intern to a construction assistant within just eight months.
• The graduate architect credited the remarkable achievement to various key lessons she acquired.
• Mueni suggested that newcomers to the field should remain receptive to learning from their more experienced counterparts.

Over the course of eight months, Phoebe Mueni, who is a Graduate Architect, rapidly advanced from being an intern to working as a construction assistant.

In a LinkedIn post, she shared the seven insights she gained from her initial position following her graduation from college.

1. Try something new

Mueni revealed that upon graduating, she was eager to explore what her architecture degree could achieve outside the boundaries of her field.

This prompted her to intern at a Non-Governmental Organization called Habitat for Humanity Kenya.

"I have had the opportunity to construct a brick wall, manage projects in informal settlements, and supervise computer literacy initiatives—none of which were part of my initial plans," she noted.

She emphasized that individuals do not forfeit their identity when venturing into different professional realms; instead, they acquire new knowledge.

2. Serve as an loyal employee

Mueni insisted that regardless of tasks like submitting documents or delivering client presentations, one should always strive for excellence.

Frequently, people desire the key responsibilities right away, overlooking the fact that building trust must come first.

She counseled that being loyal in minor details would lead to an expanded share.

3. Show enthusiasm for learning

As per Mueni, she had to remind herself that she was just beginning and required more experience rather than trying to showcase her intellect.

This was due to those who came before her, making it wise to seek assistance and gain knowledge from their experiences.

She went on to say, 'If you're not prepared to appear as a clumsy novice, you will never become an elegant expert.'

4. Solve problems

Mueni suggested that newcomers should develop solutions, address deficiencies, and assume responsibility.

In this manner, one builds a reputation for being efficient and productive, which makes them highly valued.

5. Enjoy it

Rather than constantly worrying about securing the corner office before reaching 30, it's important to savor the journey.

Mueni mentions that she was told by someone in the past that your profession evolves through numerous experiences and decisions rather than solely depending on the initial ones.

She remarked, 'Embrace your developmental journey as you keep an eye on the long-term objective.'

6. Comparisons steal happiness.

She remembered how her fellow graduates went their separate ways, causing others to feel envious of the opportunities they acquired easily.

The difficulty lies in the fact that individuals often sabotage their path to success by attempting to replicate someone else’s journey.

"She suggests concentrating on your individual journey, rejoicing in your achievements, and not letting comparisons divert you from realizing your full potential," as quoted from Steven Bartlett’s statement.

In order to achieve this, one must truly rejoice in others' victories as fervently as they would want someone else to celebrate their own successes.

7. Trust in God

Mueni suggested that people harbor numerous thoughts within their hearts, yet only God guides their path.

She ended her speech by saying, 'Turn to prayer, have faith in God, adhere to His guidance, and eventually all good things will be yours.'

She expressed her gratitude to her Habitat for Humanity Kenya coworkers for assisting her as she learned the ropes.

A career specialist offers advice for thriving in your job.

In a previous article, career and legal specialist Obarimo suggested that workers should opt for moderation when eating out with their supervisor.

He proposed that opting for cheaper alternatives might avoid appearing competitive.

Thus, Obarimo suggests initially sharing innovative ideas privately with your supervisor, enabling them to present these concepts as their own.

He also emphasised respect for all, regardless of their position, warning that tea girls and security guards wield heavy power in some companies.