My Journey
At 18 years old, starting college to pursue a degree in Business & Sport Management, I was dead set on becoming a head soccer coach or work in the front office of a professional sports team. It was my dream growing up and there was nothing else I could see myself doing. So, to help gain some experience, I started as the team manager for the Men’s Soccer Team at my college. I spent 5 years with the team and eventually became a part of the coaching staff. The lessons I learned as a part of that team, from coaches and players alike, will be with me forever. However, as I neared graduation, I knew that coaching wasn’t a full time option for me. So I decided to pursue the business side of my degree.
As I stepped into the professional world, I began as an Account Executive in the logistics industry. My day consisted of hitting the phones, setting meetings and praying to any god who would listen that I would hit quota. I will be the first to admit, I was not cut out for that job. At the beginning, there was undoubtedly a rush that came from every deal but every rejection began to takes it toll and after 6 months I was let go. Even though it didn’t work out, I was taught the true value of perseverance and resilience.
A pivotal moment came as I joined a Startup Accelerator, again as an Account Executive, following my first job. Day in and day out I met with Startup founders around the world listening to them pitch their business and worked to get them into our program. To call it a fever dream would be an understatement. The environment was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Early mornings, late nights, myself and everyone I worked with worked tirelessly towards a collective goal. It felt like the work I was doing had a purpose. But it would all be for naught. After 5 months I ended up getting laid off and 2 days later the company would close its doors. Despite the eventual closure of the company, the experience was transformative. It reinforced my commitment to professional evolution and adaptability. It highlighted the value of collaboration and collective efforts towards a common goal.
Today, I find myself working in Client Success at a consulting firm. Here, I am surrounded by a supportive team and performing in a role that perfectly aligns with my passions and strengths. It is a stark contrast to the uncertainty I have undoubtedly felt in the past. The camaraderie within my team, and beyond, fosters a sense of belonging that I have long sought after. After going through two job losses in the span of a year my current role serves as a constant reminder of the importance of self belief.
Although I am very early on in my professional career, what I have experienced thus far has taught me to trust in my abilities and remain steadfast in the face of adversity. This journey, however short it might be, has reinforced my commitment to personal and professional growth, highlighting the rewards that come from never giving in to the challenges you face.
Looking forward, my aspirations are clear. I aim to continue growing and leveraging my journey to inspire and uplift others. I hope to create a platform grounded in authenticity. Through my blog, I seek to offer insights and lessons from my own path, fostering a space where we embrace life’s challenges and become better because of them. Showing everyone that we are Here To Stay.