For Mary Luver V. Rabor, working overseas is the first step to moving forward to accelerate herself. In 2014, she decided she wanted to learn new things, acquire new skills, and expand her outlook on life abroad.
When she moved to Dubai, she was initially hired as an MEP technician. As a first-time OFW, she experienced a lot of adjustments to her surroundings, workplace, and workmates, and dealing with different cultures and traditions. Each day for her felt like an opportunity to learn new things, from troubleshooting to repairing any equipment.
Mary Luver worked as a movie cleaner in the Philippines. Driven by her passion for improving things in any aspect, she believed that she still had a long way to go.
Today, she excels in the male-dominated industry as a female technician.
“I enjoy working as a female technician although it is not that easy, simply because it is a type of work that is typically for men. But I am grateful because I learned a lot specifically in modern technology, like latest model including heavy duty equipment.”
“Such an honor to have this kind of opportunity, very unique. Ika nga ay never stop learning because the world never stops teaching,” she said.
Continuous learning
Like many OFW stories, she was also affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The immense impact of the global pandemic on many businesses forced her to take a medical coding course at the Filipino Institute, a leading training centre for those who wish to develop personal and professional career advancement through various programs.
“At first was hard. Imagine from technical work and say hello to the medical field. I felt pressured and even had a feeling of giving up. Lucky that I’m with someone who kept helping me, my study buddies, and Mr. Alvin Nacasi, my mentor,” she said.
She said that their trainer for the 24-week professional diploma program gave them hope and encouragement to pursue other career paths.
“He opened my eyes to the world of medical coding. The sacrifices, hard work, and dedication. I had to work in the morning and attend class / Review until midnight.”
“I let my heart and mind understand to explore anatomy, terminology, and definitions. Perhaps in this life, everything is not easy; it is just how you handle it,” she added.
All her efforts paid off when she passed the medical coding examinations recently.
Currently, Mary Luver plans to start looking for a new opportunity where she can prosper as a certified medical coder.
“Find a new passion for exploring new things to keep up with trends and rediscover what else I can do. A new door has opened for me, and I look forward to a better future. I keep trying to be a better person every day,” she added.
She advised her fellow OFWs not to be afraid to try something outside of their comfort zone.
“Be patient, and trust the process. Have faith in God. Always remember that “With God, all things are possible”,” she said.