By Tahimik lang sa Umpisa /June 2026

Early in my career, I applied for several positions at NLEX — eager, fresh out of college, and ready to prove myself. One of those roles was a frontliner position, dealing directly with motorists and handling customer service concerns. I was interviewed by one of the Senior Leaders in the organization, and I remember thinking: the best way to show I’m serious about this job is to look serious. So I sat straight, kept my composure, and made sure every answer sounded deliberate and professional. 

I didn’t get the job. 

At first, it stung. Rejection always does, especially when you genuinely wanted it. But not long after, another role opened up — one more closely aligned with my background and strengths. I took it, and it turned out to be exactly where I was supposed to be. 

Fast forward to today, and that same Senior Leader who once interviewed me? She’s now my colleague. We actually work together — and we look back on that interview and laugh. 

I love teasing her about it. I tell her that even from the very beginning, she already had it out for me. She always laughs it off, but she did eventually tell me the real reason I was rejected: I looked too stiff. Too serious. What they needed for that frontliner role was someone with a jolly personality and natural charisma — someone who could light up an interaction with a stressed motorist, not just answer questions correctly. 

And honestly? She was right. 

Looking back, I’m grateful for that rejection. It redirected me toward a role where I could truly grow — where my skills were recognized, my potential was nurtured, and I found my place. Sometimes the door that closes isn’t a dead end. It’s just pointing you toward the right one.