How I Spent It
Before I began working at Sei Mee Tea, I assumed that all I would be doing is making and packaging products. I am happy to say that this was only a portion of the large variety of tasks I was able to experience over the summer. My days were also filled with exploring the abilities of different softwares, creating educational content, and learning about the intricate moving parts of running a small business.
This broad spectrum of tasks allowed for the perfect balance of using both my hands and my mind throughout the day. I would often start my mornings off by making product, either scooping tea or labeling containers. This time allowed my brain to shake off its morning fog in a gradual and kind way, before entering a sort of “zen” state as Kiyomi likes to call it. In a world where we are constantly being bombarded with information and major events, it is freeing to only have to focus on a simple task that doesn’t require large amounts of brain power. There is also a sense of satisfaction that comes from producing and completing a tangible product, so this work was both calming and gave a sense of purpose.
After completing my morning tasks, I was ready to tackle the more technical parts of the job. This time was spent editing blogs, creating Ebooks, and researching ways to utilize our website in the most effective ways. This work exposed me to a whole new world of technology that is used in the business sector. It also gave me practice in troubleshooting different issues, and I am now much more confident and comfortable when approaching how to solve a problem.
Mixed in with all of this was answering phone calls, which at the beginning of the summer was a daunting prospect. However, after a little bit of practice this became one of my favorite parts of the job. I loved being able to help customers with their requests and problems, as well as hear about their lives. Listening to customers recount the memories and relationships they have made while drinking our teas made my work feel much more meaningful.
How it Changed My Future
This was my last summer before college, and I know that my time at Sei Mee Tea has changed how my experience will be there. As I mentioned above, I have learned so many technical skills that will be extremely valuable during my first year of college. From becoming more proficient with spreadsheets to creating a Kindle Ebook, I have so much more knowledge under my belt than I did at the beginning of the summer. This has made me more interested in possibly taking some Computer Science classes while at college, which is something I had never considered before.
It has also opened my mind to the possibility of starting my own small business. This is also something I had never considered before because it seemed so intimidating, but after spending a whole summer observing and learning, it definitely feels in reach.
I am very grateful to have had such an enriching experience at Sei Mee Tea. My time here has opened up so many new possibilities for me, which is all I could ask for from a job. It has been a joy working for Kiyomi, and I hope everyone gets a chance to see how passionate she is about her business and customers!
Read what she wrote at the beginning of her experience at SEI MEE TEA: “New Beginnings at SEI MEE TEA“
Meet the Author: Rosie
