Introduction: Starting at $18k
I started my professional life at the bottom: earning just $18k a year as a retail representative in Korea. It was a grueling full-time job, clocking at least 40 hours a week, regularly on weekends and holidays. Despite being trilingual and giving it my all, I knew deep down that retail wasn’t my calling. Between the toxic work culture and the constant stream of demanding customers, I wanted to quit every single day. I yearned for a career where I could finally earn the income I deserved and the professional respect that was so hard to find in that world.
Determined to pivot, I spent my nights studying for a degree through an online university, aiming for a career in marketing. I had the drive, the language skills, and a fresh degree, but the reality in Korea was harsh: the doors remained closed to those without a traditional, ‘prestigious’ academic pedigree. I was stuck at a $28k ceiling, realized my efforts wouldn’t pay off there, and decided it was time to design a new life project somewhere else.
At the age of 28—considered “late” by some—I made a life-altering decision: I was moving to Canada for a fresh start. I had my life savings and a meticulously crafted plan. This wasn’t just a move; it was a “Life Project.”
1. The Strategy: Preparing for the Pivot
To maximize my chances of success and minimize financial waste, I focused on a strategic entry plan:
- Language First: Instead of spending thousands on ESL courses in Canada, I mastered English in Korea to meet college requirements directly.
- The Criteria for My Major: I chose Computer Programming not because I loved coding, but because it met my non-negotiable data-driven criteria:
- Strong job prospects and high earning potential.
- A short, intensive 2-year program (To be honest, I couldn’t afford more than 2 years of study).
- A stable 9-to-5 schedule to escape the chaos of retail shifts.
2. From College to the First $45k Job
The four semesters were grueling, but I treated every assignment like a professional deliverable. I leveraged my Co-op program to build a network, which led to a job offer even before graduation.
I realized early on that I didn’t want to be nor could be a good developer. Instead, I found my niche in Web Analytics. My first role was a contract position starting at $45k. It was humble compared to where I am now, but it was the “Foot in the Door” I needed and I was glad to make any money while learning what was new to me.
3. The Hustle: 500% Growth in 10 Years
My career progression was a result of saying “Yes” to challenges and working with a “Grit” that stood out even in the competitive Canadian market.
- The First 5 Years: I worked harder than anyone else, staying late and volunteering for every project. This led to two promotions and multiple salary bumps before my first maternity leave.
- The Pivot to $200k+: I made a strategic jump to another company. This move significantly increased my base salary by 40%.
- The Result: Transitioning from an $18k retail job in Korea to a $200k+ Senior Data Expert role in Canada.
4. Why This Roadmap Worked: My Secret Weapons
If you are an immigrant professional or looking to pivot, here are the three things that changed my life:
A. Have Plan B, C, and even D
Have back up plans. Not just one, but multiple. You might not go with your plan B, C or D, but it will keep you feel more secure and it is a great exercise to always think of other options.
B. Grit and Trial-and-Error
You don’t have to be perfect to start. Persistence and agility are key – don’t get burned out before you start, start first then make it better later. People tend to want to help those who show they are trying anyways.
C. The Power of Soft Skills
Technical skills get you the interview; people skills get you the promotion. My ability to build rapport—honed during those difficult retail years—became my biggest competitive advantage in the tech world.
Conclusion: Believe in Your Project
My journey from a low paying retail job to the $200k+ club wasn’t magic and it didn’t happen overnight, but it wouldn’t have happened if I didn’t believe in myself and went for what I believed I deserved. If you feel stuck in your current role, remember that your past experience (even in retail!) is not a waste; it’s the foundation or motivation for your next big leap. Never settle for less. Be gritty.
