The First Step to my American Dream

Last November I went to the Philippines to meet my future employer, I flew all the way from UAE to Manila just to be interviewed by the executives of Children's Hospital of New Orleans, Louisiana. I was so damn tired of that 6-day trip but at the same time I can say that it was awesome because I passed the interview and signed a three-year contract.

Prior to my 6-day trip, I had an awful experience on swapping of duties. I really made myself exhausted because I have to attend the interview and meet the executives of the hospital. I remember myself begging to my Nurse Manager and co-staff Nurse for the changes of duty and my Nurse Manager telling me " Don't push your luck!" in front of my colleague because I was asking for an extension. Actually I asked her first to give me an early vacation and she dumped my request. My last option was the swapping of schedule. I was so happy that I have to be cross-trained to Pediatric Medical Unit for one month. I went to P/M's Nurse Manager and requested for a five consecutive days off. Without further question she agreed. Yehey!!! I could kiss her ass if she asked me to do so!

During the interview day, I came so early. I sat on the sofa at the receiving area for one hour while waiting for my slot( I prayed a lot before I left my brothers' house). The receptionist came and asked us to log on the applicants list. I wrote my name and sat on the sofa again. After few minutes, I heard somebody was calling my name. Holly cow! Am I the first one to be interviewed? The receptionist replied " Yes, certainly you will be the first one because you are a pediatric nurse" I asked her " Why?" ( uff, seems that I am an idiot....of course they are looking for pediatric nurses! Just asking because I was the 20th applicant on the list.) She answered back " They are looking for pediatric nurses since Children's Hospital is the only pedia specialist hospital within the area of New Orleans. Without further question I went inside the room. I saw a smiling, beautiful lady in her white and black suit. She asked me to sit down after we had our exchange of " Good morning". I was trembling. She started the interview and it went very well. Of all the questions she asked me, I can't forget the last one. " What do you think will be the good reason why shall I hire you?" I replied " I am hardworking and results oriented person, I want to pursue my career in your place and of course, I am looking for a professional growth."

After few hours of waiting, the receptionist read the verdict. Yehey! I passed the interview. I signed the three-year contract that the same day. Finally, I passed the first step to my American Dream.Ever wonder why I answered.....I am looking for a professional growth."?????? Yes, here in UAE, I feel that I will always be a staff nurse because I am not a local, and not even a "white" person. Promotion will never happen. Care to know the reason why?