Support, Growth, and Gratitude: Mary Jane Gonzalvo’s Parkland Journey 

Mary Jane Gonzalvo, an international student from the Philippines, joined Parkland at the Gardens a year and a half ago. Her story is one of adaptation, growth, and heartfelt gratitude. 

Mary Jane recalls her initial days at Parkland with a mix of excitement and nervousness. “I still remember my very first few shifts where I would feel nervous whenever it was the residents’ lunchtime as the front desk gets so busy,” she shared. Over time, with the unwavering support of her colleagues, she grew more confident and comfortable in her role. The sense of belonging she found at Parkland made a significant difference in her life, especially as she navigated being away from her family. “Everyone made me feel welcome and as if I was their own family member.” 

One of the most enjoyable aspects of Mary Jane’s career at Parkland is the opportunity to connect with residents and learn from their life experiences. “It not only brings me into a different generation, but it also opens my perception as to how the world is evolving fast,” she noted. These interactions have enriched her understanding of the past and provided valuable insights into the simplicity and richness of previous generations’ lives. 

Mary Jane is passionate about learning and continuously seeks to advance her skills. Whether it’s taking courses related to her field of study or exploring new areas, she is always eager to grow. Her fascination with technology and computers has allowed her to assist residents with their technical issues, blending her interests with her work. “I am always eager to learn something new every day.” 

The Parkland community has been a pillar of support in Mary Jane’s educational journey. Balancing work and studies can be challenging, but with the understanding and encouragement of her managers and colleagues, she has been able to manage both effectively. “My manager is always supportive and understanding when I request time off to study and prepare for my exams,” she explained. 

The Joan Craig Bursary has had a profound impact on Mary Jane’s life. With government restrictions limiting her working hours, the bursary provided much-needed financial support, allowing her to focus on her studies. “I will forever be thankful that I am one of the chosen beneficiaries,” she expressed. This financial aid has eased her burdens and enabled her to concentrate on achieving her academic goals. 

Mary Jane finds inspiration in her personal experiences and the challenges she has overcome. “The struggles that I had surpassed made me who I am today,” she reflected. Working at Parkland has helped her become more open to new possibilities and challenges, fostering personal growth and creating lasting friendships. 

Although Mary Jane’s direct interactions with Joan Craig have been limited, she has always made an effort to ensure Joan feels safe and cared for at Parkland. Her dedication to maintaining a welcoming environment speaks to her commitment to the residents. 

As Mary Jane approaches the end of her program, she looks forward to applying the knowledge and skills she has acquired. “Working at PATG really helped me a lot in developing excellent customer service and problem-solving skills, soft skills which I believe are helpful in a corporate setup job. I will always look back to how PATG community helped me in becoming who I am today.”