Changing Lives as a DHS Official
Welcome to a new series highlighting everyday women who love their jobs. Learn what a day in the life looks like, and discover how God has led them to where they are today.
What did you major in college and graduate school, and how long have you been working in this industry?
My undergraduate degree was in Marketing and my Master’s degree is in Migration Studies. I have been working in this industry for one year and six months.
What three words would a close friend or family member use to describe you?
Cheerful/Optimistic/Encouraging.
When you were a little girl, what did you want to be?
A teacher!
Did you always know you want to be doing what you’re doing now? If not, who or what led you there?
No, I think that all of my past experiences accumulated to my career.
What gets you excited about going into work?
Being able to meet new people every day from all parts of the world!
What does a typical day look like for you?
Interviews pretty much every day and going to naturalization ceremonies.
What do you love most about your job?
Knowing that I not only changed someone’s life for the better, but generations to come will benefit as well.
What are the challenging aspects of your job?
Sometimes hearing different stories all day can be difficult to hear, especially if they are sad.
What is one advice you would give to someone who is interested in doing what you are doing?
Go into it knowing that you are literally changing someone’s life and that this job will lead to so many different opportunities.
What specific skills or educational background are needed for someone to be successful in this role?
A bachelors degree and federal service experience.
What are some current issues and trends in this field that someone should be aware of?
Depending on the administration, policies are always changing.
Has your faith played a role in your professional journey? If so, how?
Oh yes! I think I was fearful and had so much doubt in the beginning. The Lord taught me that I needed to be patient and trust in him. I learned to be so disciplined and really have faith in the Lord in the months leading up to this job.
What do you wish you had known before you started in this field/industry?
I wish I knew beforehand that this is what I wanted to do, then I could have actually picked a major that would relate in undergrad.
Are you able to establish a work/life balance in your work? Why or why not?
Yes, thankfully I don’t have to bring my work home with me.
What is one thing you are looking forward to about your professional career this year?
I really want to excel in all of my work this year and strive to do my best.