Growing up, I was taught to believe that working at McDonald's was a sign of incompetence and low-ability.

Phrases like "study so you don't end up McDonald's" and "they're just angry because they work at McDonald's" were dominant in the way people, and especially myself, viewed the company through prejudice.

Struggling to put myself out into the community, I applied for a job at McDonald's Inverell.

After I passed my job interview, I was extremely nervous and humiliated by the thought of my peers seeing me at work.

I even had the mother of a friend asked me "why would you want to work in a place like this?"

Now two years later, I can now confidently tell her as to why I wanted to, and continue to work at McDonald's.

McDonald's Inverell has provided me with extensive opportunities both personally, professionally and financially.

Work has encouraged me to become more confident in myself and has empowered me to engage in social situations within my life.

The staff and managers have always supported me and have provided constructive social networks and advice.

McDonald's Inverell have also provided me with valuable opportunities and experience through courses such as a Certificate III course in Retail.

From this opportunity, I can now use these qualifications and experience to benefit myself and apply for jobs and opportunities in the future.

All of this from working at McDonald's?

That's because working at McDonald's isn't a sign of low-ability or effort. Working at McDonald's is a valuable and highly skilled job that provides future economic, professional and social support to its employees.

I am proud to work at McDonald's and I believe it has provided me with valuable skills and experience that I can apply towards myself and my future.

I believe that through some media, working at McDonald's has been portrayed negatively by the stereotypes within the fast food industry.