When I first applied to Publix, the idea that it would begin a new chapter in my life never crossed my mind. I sent in my application every month for six months until I finally landed an interview to become a bagger. I was nervous. This was my first ever real job. Having only ever babysat family friends children, working at Publix weekly was going to be a big change.

Being an employee at Publix soon became much more than just a job- my way of life drastically changed. Suddenly, I went from a teenager who had to constantly ask my parents for money to a young adult who had her own money to save and spend.

Making my own money made me realize the worth of a dollar. I strongly believe that no one can truly know the value of a dollar until you make your own hard earned money.

My parents and I made a deal (a pretty good one if you ask me): they would buy me a car only if I found a job to pay for gas. The best thing my parents did for me in high school was make me get a job, even when the majority of my friends didn’t have one.

Like most things in life, I didn’t realize how great I had it until it was all over. I resigned from Publix due to starting college. One chapter in my life ended, but I was getting ready to start one of the best ones.

My last day at Publix, I clocked out for the last time, walked to my car like any other night, and everything hit me at once. I cried thinking about how much I had grown through this job. When I first started, I was a 16 year old junior in high school. I had no idea what I was doing, but soon learned how to provide top notch customer service (a quality that has continued to benefit me day-to-day). I left Publix as an 18 year old who was a week away from starting college at the University of Florida.

Reflecting back on my time at Publix, I now realize how many values it has instilled in me:

I have learned what good work ethic is, how to be productive and to do what I need to do before being told to do so.

I have gained the ability to be a people person, how to help a customer to the best of my ability and how to work well with others.

I have been taught discipline and time management, two of the most important values I took out of the job. While enrolled in difficult classes and working many hours directly after school, I still managed to work and keep a high GPA.

I have felt hard work pay off when receiving raises, promotions and high marks in my evaluations.

I have seen great things come from just having Publix on my resume. When applying for a new job, my new boss said to me, “I saw Publix on your resumé and knew right away I needed to hire you.”

Most of all, I have gained wisdom. I grew up as a Publix associate. I will forever be grateful for my first job.

All I can say is thank you. Thank you to an amazing company for allowing me to become who I am through you. Thank you for all of the values you taught me. Thank you for teaching me how to be an adult. Thank you for being the perfect first job. Thank you for being a place where working was a pleasure.