Our Sidekicker community is made up of people from all walks of life. Their backgrounds, their passions, and their stories are part of what makes them so good at what they do. Sheryl is a New Zealand Sidekick who is following her childhood dream to become a scientist. She has worked as a Quality Analyst and an Academic Research editor before finishing her postgraduate in Earth Sciences. See why she loves what she does.
Where were you working before you started Sidekicking?
I arrived in New Zealand about a year ago for postgraduate studies. To support my living expenses, I began looking for part-time jobs with flexible hours, so that work wouldn’t take a toll on my studies. I joined Sidekicker – finding work that fit around my study schedules couldn’t get any easier.
Tell us something unique about yourself (hobbies, interests, experiences etc)
My hobbies and interests include singing, dancing, reading books (mainly science fiction and fantasy fiction), trekking, traveling to different places, and experiencing different cultures. Through Sidekicker, I have had the opportunity to interact and learn from many people who come from different walks of life, which has enriched my experience of living here in New Zealand.
What was your first Sidekicking gig?
My first gig was at Spark Arena as a drinks pourer, where I learned quite a bit about working in a fast-paced environment. Initially, I did not think I was suited for the job because I did not have experience in this role, but within the first few hours, you build up a rhythm, and once you’ve done that, the experience becomes enjoyable.
Coolest thing you’ve done at Sidekicker?
The coolest and one of the best experiences I’d say that I had with Sidekicker was working in the Bowl Bar at Spark Arena for the Dua Lipa + Bruno Mars concert. It was an exhilarating experience because I got to watch and enjoy the entire concert while working as a Senior Cashier. Work did not feel like work because of the good music, and who doesn’t like good music that gets you in the groove while working!
What was your first job?
My first ever job was in India, right after I graduated. I started out as an Academic Research Editor and then moved on to become a Quality Analyst. Back in India, casual part-time work is not a very common concept, so experiencing the work culture in New Zealand broadened my perspective and helped me gain skills which I wouldn’t have acquired otherwise.
What do you hope to do in the future?
I have completed my Postgraduate Diploma in Earth Sciences from the University of Auckland, and currently, I am looking for full-time opportunities here in New Zealand as a Geologist. However, while I continue with my job hunt, Sidekicker is always there to help me with my daily expenses.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
Ever since I was little, I had an affinity towards the sciences and I wanted to be a scientist.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who wants to be a Sidekick?
Ensure that you update your profile regularly. Each new experience that you gain, whilst you may not think it is significant, there is a high chance a client will. Detail each experience well.
When applying for jobs on Sidekicker, make sure that you read the job description carefully and tailor your application statement accordingly. Be as detailed as possible, as a good application statement is key to getting accepted for a job.
Why do you love what you do?
For me, it’s all about learning new things and gaining new skills. Through the different jobs that I have worked at various places, I have met and interacted with so many different people, and it has helped me with my communication and people skills. When I am in doubt about gaining certain skills, I go ahead and gain them anyway, because there’s nothing to lose and you never know when the dots will connect. The skills I have gained now, may come in handy in a different job altogether and that will enhance my confidence on the job.