Want to hear the story of one of our young stunners? This one is Laiba's, the girl who said "why not both?" to study and work… and made it work! So, let's hear it from yours truly.
Hi, I am Laiba.
Starting your career at 18? Sounds scary, right?
That's exactly what I thought too.
Because let's be real, everyone around you loves to "share" their own opinions. Your teachers, your principal, your family… all saying the same thing:
"Focus on your studies."
"Jobs can wait."
"Don't mess up your grades."
And while they mean well, only you really know what you're capable of. Because what worked for them might not work for you.
Living in today's world, especially in this inflation and with piling responsibilities, starting early doesn't feel like a bad idea. In fact, it feels necessary.
Across the world, students are already doing it. Managing part-time jobs, supporting themselves, and still keeping up with their education.
And so I thought, why not me?
Growing up as the youngest in the family, I was always a little pampered. But deep down, I never liked depending on anyone. I wanted independence. And just a little bit of financial freedom too (I already had a few things added to the shopping cart!).
I had always imagined my first job would be in a multinational company. The corporate world always fascinated me. The structure, the professionalism, the whole vibe.
So the moment I turned 18, I took the leap.
I stepped into the working world while simultaneously preparing for my A2 exams and wrapping up my A-Levels.
At first, I told myself, "Let's just try working for a few months. I mean, why not, right?"
And then ibex. Pakistan happened. And everything changed.
It has been a rollercoaster of a ride with the best people I could ask for.
I got Employee of the Month within the very first month of working here. I was so happy that my "few months plan" took a complete 180 degree turn, and I decided not to stop.
But then came August. College started. And suddenly, reality hit me like a ton of bricks. Made my head spin, with all the managing work and studies.
It all felt so overwhelming. And honestly, I started questioning my decision to work. Was I doing the right thing?
But then, I decided to take a step for myself. I poured my heart out to my supervisor. And instead of being judged (which I was actually expecting), she totally understood.
She listened, said "I feel you!", and then she reassured me. She even talked about her own experience, how she was in a similar place in the beginning too, and how she got out of it.
That moment changed something inside of me. It calmed the storm brewing inside of me.
I realized that this place was where I belonged. It became my support system. ibex. Pakistan was always there, helping me adjust my work schedule to fit my college timings and giving me time off during exams.
This wonderful place made everything a 100 times easier and much more manageable.
Working at such an early age taught me things no classroom ever could.
Time management. Responsibility. Confidence.
I was already scoring achievements, while others were hitting snooze. I had already jumped the fast-express train of career growth early on. And there was no stopping now.
Because I realized that by the time you reach your 20s, you're not just dreaming about goals. You're already ticking them off. Something that many only start to do in their 30s.
And let's not forget the magic of feeling independent.
For me, it wasn't just about spending money on bags or going to aesthetic restaurants every day. It was more about taking responsibility.
A-Levels isn't cheap. Financing my own studies and saving up for the university I had my eye on, making my parents proud all made it worth it. Plus, it made me feel capable.
And while we are on the topic of studies…
The jump from O-Levels to A-Levels is not easy. The struggle is actually real. The pressure, the grades, the expectations, it can get overwhelming.
There were days when things didn't go as planned. But working alongside studying added a sense of discipline. It forced me to manage my time better, to stay focused and take things seriously.
So yes, it wasn't easy. But it was worth it.
Because somewhere along the way, I realized that I wasn't alone. There were so many people in the same boat as me. Managing work and studies side by side. Supporting themselves. Growing every single day.
And if they could do it…so could I.
And so can you.
Just know this. It's not impossible. It's just a little challenging.
But with the right mindset and the right environment…it's absolutely doable.
And ibex. might just be the place that helps you make it happen.
Are You A Student Looking For A Job In Pakistan?
Join ibex. and become financially independent, while managing your studies!
