I recently came across Gloria's Instagram page and was so amazed by her. She is very inspirational; empowers and inspires others through her blog on www.gloriahopee.com. She is currently doing a #31daystoglo challenge this month. The focus is on discipline, consistency and repetition in the areas of mental, spiritual and physical health. Join her - there's still a few days left!
We all have day jobs though. Gloria's day job keeps her on her feet and in the air (literally) as a flight attendant. Her schedule is extremely busy yet exciting nonetheless. If you're considering entering the airline industry than this is a must-read for you.
How long have you been a flight attendant? What made you want to become one?
I have been a flight attendant for 2 years now. I had just graduated from university when I decided to apply and I wanted an exciting change. Becoming a flight attendant seemed to be the perfect fit! I was right! My entire lifestyle changed and every moment has been an adventure.
Most of us go into a building and sit at a desk all day (or teach in a school, like myself!), but what is your average work day like?
Preparing for an average trip starts days before. Depending on which state I am working out of for the particular trip, determines how early I begin to prepare. I enjoy working out of New York because it has the most exciting destinations. I can honestly say that no days are ever really the same. But if I were to reference a day, I would say an average day would begin pretty early arriving to the airport for my first flight. I would then meet up with my crew for that trip (usually 3-5days long). We brief with each other, then on the aircraft with the pilot. Then we prepare to fly. I usually take about 3 flights on an average day, jumping from east coast to west coast (unless I'm flying international). After a long day of flights, I get to enjoy the city that I am in for the night or next couple of days. My favorite destination is New Orleans! The food is amazing.
Many people may think that the life of a flight attendant is fun and exciting, but do you ever have time to truly enjoy the locations you fly too?
Yes! It is important to understand that the company a flight attendant works for determines their experience. The company I fly for is amazing and because of that I get to enjoy each city I am in at the end of my work day, for a nice amount of time, even days. Also, I have the opportunity to get up and go to my favorite places when I am not working, for absolutely FREE! Perks of being a flight attendant.
Since you're constantly on the go, do you have any packing tips or tricks to share?
If there was any advice I could give to a future traveler it would be to remember that LESS IS MORE! Find ways to minimize as much as possible. Even when packing clothing, include staple pieces that can be worn differently multiple times. This saves space and adds to creativity when planning clothing.
Last but not least, should we (your everyday, average passenger!) be afraid of turbulence?
Turbulence is very serious. It comes in three stages; mild, moderate and severe. It is important to pay close attention to the announcements being made during turbulence, as well as, the seat belt sign. You should not be afraid of turbulence but the average passenger should be cautious and aware. But no fear. Your flight attendant is trained on the procedures during turbulence and will direct as need. My advice would be to sit back, relax and enjoy the flight....always. :-)
Major thanks to Gloria for chatting with Coconut + Concrete. We appreciate her and all of the flight attendants around the world!