Hi, I'm Ajay.

On my first day, someone asked me what I wanted to become. Without thinking too much, I said, "Supervisor. Maybe manager."

At that time, I didn't even fully understand what that meant. I thought I'd be making drinks — crafting coffee, experimenting with flavors, being behind the bar. But instead, I was cleaning tables, waiting on customers, packing burgers, doing whatever needed to be done.

The first few days were confusing. I remember one particularly busy rush hour when I was asked to deliver drinks. I tried to multitask and ended up spilling them. It wasn't a huge mistake, but it stayed with me. That moment made me realize I had a lot to learn.

So I started paying attention. I began reading the menu properly, observing how others worked, and understanding how things actually functioned instead of just completing tasks. Small things, but they helped me connect to the work.

Slowly, I moved toward drinks and found my interest there. I wanted to prepare them, to create something people would enjoy. Becoming a barista wasn't easy at first — there was a learning curve — but I stuck with it. Over time, I got more comfortable. I started suggesting new drinks. I learned the recipes. I found my rhythm.

As I improved, my responsibilities grew. Now I handle inventory, check the previous day's sales, manage stock for the drinks section, supervise the team, and make sure we have everything we need. I check what needs to be ordered, keep things organized, and help wherever I'm needed.

Somewhere along the way, without really noticing, I became what I casually said on Day One.

What really shifted wasn't just my position — it was my mindset.

I didn't like following recipes before. I thought they limited creativity. I wanted to do things my own way. But now I understand that consistency is what matters most. That's what makes people trust the food and drinks. That's what brings them back.

This job has also taught me patience. There was one day when I had to clean everything alone after a long shift. I remember standing there, tired, not wanting to do it. But I told myself, "I have to do this." And I did. Now, it doesn't feel like a big deal. It's just part of the work.

I used to be shy. I still am sometimes. But now I can control it better. I've learned how to talk to people, how to make them feel comfortable. There are even a few regular guests who remember me because of how I treat them. That feels good.

Outside of work, I like keeping things simple. I play PlayStation, talk to my girlfriend, repair things around the house — especially phones. That's actually become a hobby. I want to learn advanced phone repair and maybe open a business one day. I also do a little coding, some photo and video editing, and I know a bit of art and crafts. Origami is something I enjoy. I once made a paper bouquet for my girlfriend. Small creative outlets like that keep me balanced.

If I could tell my younger self one thing, it would be this: save money and stop wasting it on things you don't need. I used to spend so much without thinking. Now I'm trying to be smarter about it. I still want to buy things when I see them — especially expensive things — but I'm learning to pause and think first.

The team here is great. Everyone's friendly and understanding. Even when there are lots of orders, it doesn't feel overwhelming. Time passes quickly at T's. I don't even notice how many hours have gone by until my shift is over.

I've never seriously felt like quitting. Well, except for that one time I had to clean up alone. But even then, I pushed through. That moment taught me something important: you do what needs to be done, even when you don't feel like it.

I've fulfilled some of my childhood dreams. I wanted to be independent, and I am. I wanted remote-controlled cars and toys, and I got them. Small victories, but they matter.I want to be known as someone who smiles a lot. Someone approachable. Someone who makes people feel welcome.

I didn't start where I wanted to be. I started cleaning tables and packing burgers, confused and making mistakes. But I stayed. I learned. I adapted.

That one answer I gave on my first day — something I didn't think much about at the time — slowly became real.

Not because I planned it perfectly, but because I kept showing up.