How She Biked Her Way Into a Dream Remote Job

J asmine Reese began her journey into self-discovery, connection, & the remote lifestyle in 2013. Her journey started on a bicycle, with her dog, and no more than $50 to her name.

While biking & camping around the USA, she accepted many work opportunities in hospitality, human resources, & other types of odd jobs.

As her portfolio grew and grew, she felt a tugging at her heartstrings to pursue something she was truly passionate about– MUSIC!

Setting off on another bicycling journey in 2016, Jasmine traveled all across Canada & down the east coast of the US.

Her intentions were clear– “I wanted to join a company as a remote worker.”

Thanks to the Pangian Remote Network, Jasmine learned the best cover letter & resume tips that helped her reach her goal.

Today, she is a proud Customer Support Associate for an incredible remote-first company. Congrats!

Jasmine, your story is so inspiring! So how did you even start working remotely?

“In 2013, I took my amazing friend and dog and bicycled across the U.S., beginning with less than $50.00 in my pocket and no cycling or camping experience. Through the kindness of strangers, there were only three nights I had to camp.

When I successfully cycled from New York to San Diego, I hitchhiked back to Indianapolis, and I began to work right away. I worked full-time graveyard shift in a motel, and I interned in Donor Relations for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

I then landed a wonderful job in my previous field of anatomical organ and tissue donation. I worked insane hours for two years and then I realized how unhappy I was.

“When I was on the road, I was happy most of the time with some days of sadness. But when settled, I was sad most of the time with some days of happiness. While I loved the important work we did in organ and tissue donation, it wasn’t my dream or long-term career goal.”

So, I decided to set off again with my dog, Fiji. But this time, I was going to turn the road into my school of music.

I’d use music to make money. I’d collaborate with and learn from other musicians, and on the side, I’d freelance and do odd jobs, making my way to becoming a full-time adventure cyclist, digital nomad and musician.

“In 2016, I set off and cycled across Canada and down the East Coast of the U.S. to Florida.

For the last three years, while cycling around the country, I’ve built up my resume of remote work and freelance clients.

In 2018, my intent slightly changed in that I wanted to join a company as a remote worker, having two careers — a performing musician (at some point) and a full-time career at a SaaS company.

Today, I’ve reached that goal!! I will join the remote-work family! Thanks, Pangian! I applied through the Pangian Job Network. Through some tweaks to my cover letter and resume as advised in this community, I did it!

What an incredible story! Is there a way to keep up with your journey as it continues to unfold?

You can keep up with my adventures on my FiJa Paw Facebook Page, my website, or my instagram.

We are so happy for you, Jasmine! You can do anything you set your mind to. Before we go, what is your top piece of advice for remote job seekers?

“Your cover letter is like a pitch to the company on why you’re the perfect candidate. You already know this. Make sure each cover letter you write include these three elements.

1) An attention grabbing, exciting first sentence or paragraph that uses an interesting fact about yourself or the company and ties in or demonstrates your value to the company specifically.

2) Don’t be afraid to talk about your dreams and goals, and how this company specifically will make it happen. The importance of this is to show the company you’re in it for the long-haul, and the company will not just be vital to your professional career but also your personal goals.

3) If you’re wanting to work remotely and apply for a remote position, make sure you highlight any experience working remotely in the same industry you’re applying for.

Companies are still new to remote work and not everyone is cut out for the self-accountability and discipline remote work requires. So, be sure to let the company know your successful experience meeting deadlines, managing time, and organizing projects on a remote basis.”

About Stevie Ramirez

World traveler. Rock climber. Digital nomad. Friend. Radical honesty, mindfulness, & passion guide my life. Let’s change the world of remote work! Learn more about Stevie