From Mechanical Engineer to Social Media Star
Meet Andrew De Los Santos, a 28-year-old Filipino content creator who has made a significant impact in the Bay Area since moving there in 2017. What sets Andrew apart is not only his ability to create fun and engaging content, but also his dedication to mental health and community-building. Andrew shared his journey in an exclusive interview with Anise Health. In this blog post, we will delve into Andrew's personal journey, his resiliency strategies during challenging times, and his passion for helping small businesses and families thrive.
The Path to Pursuing Passion:
Andrew's journey to pursuing his passion was not without adversity. In an effort to make his parents happy, he initially pursued a degree in mechanical engineering and even shifted careers after graduating to earn a Master’s degree in Sustainability. During his time in graduate school, Andrew prioritized his mental health and included therapy sessions as part of his routine. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Andrew found himself facing new challenges. To cope, he moved into a co-living building populated by young people who were new to the city. They formed a close-knit community and organized hangouts on the rooftop, cooking together, and having fun. This support system became Andrew's coping strategy during difficult times, allowing him to build relationships and feel a sense of belonging.
Embracing Cultural Similarities:
Living in the diverse Bay Area, Andrew found solace in the presence of other Asian Americans who shared similar cultural backgrounds. In a city that celebrated diversity, Andrew never felt like a minority. This cultural connection further strengthened his sense of identity and provided him with a supportive network of like-minded individuals.
Transitioning from mechanical engineering to social media was not an easy feat for Andrew. The demands of consistently posting engaging content on two different accounts was emotionally and mentally intensive. However, Andrew's resilience and his willingness to adapt allowed him to overcome these obstacles. He acknowledged the importance of building boundaries, saying no when necessary, and taking time off to enjoy events and weekends. Recognizing his own worth and being cautious of burnout, Andrew learned to find a sustainable balance between work and personal life.
Succeeding in Making a Difference:
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Andrew's career has been the opportunity to support small businesses, families, and the wider community. Through his social media presence, he helps individuals find hidden gems in the city, promoting local establishments and fostering a sense of community. This fulfilling work not only validates Andrew's efforts but also inspires him to continue making a positive impact.
The Journey to "Making It":
Pursuing a nontraditional career path in content creation was not Andrew’s original profession. In fact, Andrew completed his masters degree but sensed that his true calling lay elsewhere. He eventually transitioned to a full-time career in social media by starting with small projects which gradually gained traction. After years of hard work and dedication, Andrew finally reached a significant milestone: quitting his full-time job. Within two months, he achieved financial stability through a combination of steady income and sponsorship opportunities from large companies. This pivotal moment marked the realization of his dream and affirmed his belief that he had "made it." Andrew's journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and following one's passion.
Striving for Balance and Sustainability:
As Andrew's social media presence grew, he began to prioritize his own well-being and balance his workload. He started creating boundaries, optimizing his time, and setting aside more free time for hobbies. Listening to the "Optimize Finance Daily" podcast helped him understand the importance of finding a balance between income and free time, focusing on quality over quantity.
Andrew De Los Santos embodies the spirit of pursuing one's passion while simultaneously recognizing his parents’ well-intended wishes for his security and comfort. From his transition from mechanical engineering to social media, to his commitment to mental health, Andrew has shown that with dedication and a strong support system, one can achieve their goals. Through his uplifting content and dedication to supporting local businesses, Andrew continues to inspire and bring joy to others. So, join Andrew on his journey and experience the beauty of community, culture, and the pursuit of passion by following him at @AndrewToursSF and @AndrewEatsinSF
