Mixed experience — grateful for the opportunity but disappointed in the cultureThe good thingsDecent pay, job stability, enjoyable work, and friendly colleagues. Many of my coworkers were supportive and kind, and several expressed sadness when I left, which meant a lot.
The challengesThe overall work environment often felt toxic and unsupportive. I gave my full effort, rearranged university classes, travelled long distances, and stayed back for extra shifts when needed. Despite that dedication, I sometimes felt undervalued and treated differently from others.
Training was poor, and when I tried to learn things independently, I was criticised instead of encouraged. I’ll admit I wasn’t always the fastest, but many others also struggled — and not everyone was treated equally.
I do want to show respect to my department manager. Despite sometimes taking sides, he was the one who gave me the opportunity in the first place, even over more experienced applicants, and he genuinely tried to help me pass my probation. For that, I’m sincerely grateful.
Unfortunately, my final weeks were very hurtful. I became unwell during my notice period and was met with an extremely unprofessional reaction that left me disappointed after all the effort I had given.