How was it like working in the fashion industry?
There were both great and not so great aspects to working in the fashion industry, as I suppose is the case with many jobs. The fashion industry gave me the opportunity to travel, to make some of my closest friends, and many management skills that will serve me well in my new career.
On a personal level, the not so great aspects were the consistent stress, late hours, and always being on call. I had negative health outcomes both physically and mentally. I spent most of 2018 feeling deflated and depressed.
On an industry level, the not so great aspects are the exploitation of developing countries and the negative environmental impact. I did not like that I was contributing to these negative factors.
What inspired you to pivot your career to social work?
During my time in the fashion industry, I found myself unhappy more days than happy. I saw the leadership of what I would have to become to have further success in my career, and I knew that fashion was no longer the right option for me. I did a lot of inward reflection to better understand myself and what I value most.
I have always volunteered to better my community since I was a child. I’ve been a New York Cares volunteer since 2012. (They’re a great organization if you live in the NYC area and want to check them out.) Through these experiences, I knew I was most happy helping others. I came to social work after lots and lots of googling. There were free classes related to the field in my area, so I started to take them to learn more. I also knew a few social workers already, so I got on the phone to understand their experiences. There’s so much that I love about social work, but the adaptability the career has to offer is what drew me in. There are social workers in many different roles, from hospital settings to schools, to politics, to community organizing. Once I graduate, I will not be stuck to one population or one work environment. I can always follow the things I’m most passionate about.
What are you working on right now that excites or inspires you?
There are three things I’m working on that excites and inspires me right now:
- Firstly, I am excited about my internship at Safe Horizon Child Advocacy Center. I am learning a lot about trauma and how to better assist families through one of the toughest times in their lives. It’s a really wonderful challenge for me and I’m enthusiastic to develop my skills further.
- Secondly, I am a member ambassador at the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) NYC. chapter. The NASW offers much to a social worker through continuing education classes and advocacy both for clients and social workers themselves. Here I am connecting other students with the organization and just having a lot of fun doing it.
- Thirdly, I am working on myself, and it’s both inspiring and exciting. I’m learning how to better understand who I am and what I need to do for me to be amazing in my many roles. There’s something so empowering about confidently dictating your life and I encourage everyone to start trying. It takes a lot of work, but the payoff is worth it.
What advice do you have for those thinking about changing their careers the way you did?
- Ask yourself, have I exhausted all options in my current career?
- Talk to many people in the career you’re thinking of entering. Don’t be shy! Most people are more than willing to share their experiences.
- If you have the opportunity, shadow someone in the role your interested in, or see if there are any low-expense classes offered in your area related to the field you’re interested in.
- Do your research. Perhaps you would ask yourself questions like:
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- Will I have to go back to school?
- Is there a need for the career I’m thinking of changing into?
- How much is the median salary in my area for the job I’m interested in?
- Does that salary meet my needs?
- Don’t be afraid to take a leap. Remember that you know yourself best. Listen to what your body is telling you. What you do everyday with your life should ultimately bring you satisfaction.
What is the best advice anyone has ever given to you?
While debating the financial impact of this change, my best friend had asked me what my happiness was worth. That simple question changed my life.
What are you investing in?
My biggest investment right now is me. I’ve put a lot of time, energy, and money into my success. I’m looking forward to all the returns this investment will provide.