Cheryl Halford is a flight attendant for Emirates Airline.

What does a typical Thursday look like for you, starting from when you wake up – to heading to bed?
Each Thursday varies as my roster each month brings me to new places. This past Thursday I woke up at 6:30 am to get myself ready for my flight. I like to check my email before my layovers since I usually don’t have internet access until I return. I head out the door two and a half hours before my departure with my red lipstick in place. I check into my flight to Johannesburg, South Africa and head to the briefing room with 14 other crew members I have yet to meet. Its a long flight so I like to make sure I’m well rested & ready to serve 300 passengers! After we land at the airport it’s off to the hotel. Once checked in, the crew decide to meet up for dinner to enjoy some delicious South African steak & red wine before heading to bed at a decent time (according to the local time zone) to be able to get up in the morning for a visit to the Lion Park.

What was your first job out of school?
After University I worked as a server before I began my career in the Aviation Industry with Porter Airlines. I started as a Customer Service Rep prior to becoming a Porter Flight Attendant.

What are the 3 skills you require most to do your job well?
Patience- There are several challenges in the Aviation/service industry and having the capacity to remain calm provides a smooth work day.
Lightheartedness- Find something to smile about, it takes the pressure off and makes each day more enjoyable.
Adaptability- When your surroundings are constantly changing being able to adjust and to be flexible is extremely important.

What do you love most about your career?
I love that everyday brings personal and professional growth. I am constantly being exposed to new experiences, people and situations which I find exhilarating. I have embarked on an incredible journey which I am blessed to be a part of as I serve passengers from around the globe. Also, getting to see the world in the process is remarkable!

Do you have any warnings?
Seek knowledge and insight before getting yourself into any career. Educate yourself on what to expect to help to avoid disappointment, as having a heads up will prepare you for what’s to come.

If you could try a different career on for a year, what would it be?
Spa owner in a small rural town in Southern Ontario.

Where has being a flight attendant taken you? Do you consider this a huge perk?
So far I’ve had layovers in Australia, Austria, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Italy, France, Malaysia, Mauritius, Morocco, Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Thailand, UAE, UK & US. I could have never imagined that I would be able to see the places I’ve seen so far. Each month brings new destinations which I have the opportunity to discover.