Mary Patrice Layaoen

How did you start building your network?

Networking isn’t just about building professional relationships but also a great way to make new friends. For me, that’s what makes it so natural and enjoyable. It’s like meeting people who share your interests and passions, and it just feels like an organic way to connect and grow together. When I started building my network, I really focused on being proactive while staying friendly and professional. I made sure to go to industry events, strike up interesting conversations, and follow up with new contacts. Social media was also a huge help. I mainly use LinkedIn because it’s one of the top formal networking platforms. I used it to connect with folks in my field and kept an eye out for chances to collaborate. I joined groups and associations related to my interests, which helped me meet people who were into the same stuff I was. I always tried to offer support and value to others, and that naturally led to people returning the favor. Being curious, asking questions, and showing a real interest in what others were doing made networking more fun and effective. I still stick to this approach today because it keeps helping me grow and build solid connections. And remember, it’s never too late to start networking—whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your connections further, there’s always an opportunity to grow your network.

What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?

The most valuable piece of career advice I wish I had received earlier is the significance of gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work while still in school. Getting involved in these activities from the start can significantly enhance my abilities, broaden my professional connections, and make me a more competitive candidate by graduation. The great thing about starting early is that you can tackle smaller tasks first and progressively handle more challenging projects, which helps build your skills and confidence over time. Even though I missed out on these opportunities, I’ve been diligently pursuing practical experience and demonstrating my dedication to professional growth. I’ve been engaging in various projects, volunteering, and attending industry events, which has allowed me to develop my skills, stay informed about trends, and connect with valuable contacts. Nonetheless, it's never too late to begin now, and planning for such opportunities can offer significant long-term benefits.

How did you pick your career? Did you know all along?

Ever since I was little, drawing was one of the first things that truly clicked for me. I still remember struggling with a drawing task in kindergarten so much that my teacher had to step in and help. Rather than feeling discouraged, I watched closely and learned from how they approached it. That experience didn’t just teach me how to draw; it ignited a passion for critical thinking and a keen eye for detail. Another significant influence on my love for art was my childhood obsession with animated movies. I was often glued to the screen, completely captivated by the vibrant worlds and imaginative stories these films offered. Watching these movies wasn’t just about entertainment; it was about immersing myself in creativity and visual storytelling. These animated adventures played a crucial role in my artistic development, deepening my understanding of narrative and artistic expression. As I grew older, my love for creating and the inspiration from these early experiences only intensified. Even though I didn’t always know my career would be centered around art, the combination of my early drawing challenges and my fascination with animated films naturally guided me in that direction. It’s been a fulfilling journey of discovering joy and purpose through creation, and I’m grateful that these early passions led me to a career that feels like a perfect match.