Throw Away Your Checklist!
/My time in high school
Attended high school in the
1980s
Overall high school experience
8/10
Grades in high school
B's and C's
Best subjects
English, Physical Education, Science
Favorite extracurricular
Sports / Recreation
Life since high school
Attended college / university at
San Francisco State University
“Biggest mistake? Spending too much money in my 20’s and 30’s. Financial Security is everything now that I have it. ”
Majored in
BA Home Economics (Clothing and Textiles)
Post-graduate education or training
- K-8 Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential
- K-12 Mild/Moderate Special Education Teaching Credential
- Single Subject Credential - Home Economics
- Preschool Credential (Early Childhood Education)
Places lived in US
New Jersey, Virginia
Current occupations / past occupations
- Retail Buyer
- Teacher
- Interior Designer
Industries I've worked in
- Retail Trade
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (e.g. Law, Accounting, Interior Design, Graphic Design, R&D, PR, Advertising, etc.)
- Educational Services
Did your education prepare you for your career or occupation?
Yes
Has your education or career/occupation trajectory ever changed? How?
My BA served me for the first ten years of my career; I went back to school to get my teaching credentials. I taught for 5 years; I launched my own company in 2002 and have been working for myself ever since.
A little introspection...
To me, being successful means...
Living life on my own terms: Living in the now and appreciating family and friends.....Creating my own schedule.....Working in a field that allows me to express my creativity and make my clients happy!
My definition of success has changed over time.
20's to 30's I worked with a mindset to achieve promotions, professional recognition and increasing income. 30's to 40's success was balancing child rearing and working from home 40's to 50's has been appreciating what I have worked on personally and professionally, and being satisfied
My greatest accomplishment to date and what I’ve learned from it
Top Three:
- My Marriage - married to my best friend, been together for 30 years
- My Children - I parent knowing they are who they are; I am here to give them experiences and confidence to tackle their journey
-My Career: Cultivating a successful business based on professional service and ability to understand clients' needs. I've learned that all good things come in time; Always have hope; and, to remember to be kind.
My biggest mistake or regret so far and what I’ve learned from it
Biggest mistake? Spending too much money in my 20's and 30's. Financial Security is everything now that I have it.
An unexpected event that changed my life and how it impacted me
I've had multiple friends pass away in the late 30's early 40's due to Cancer. I've learned that it's a gift to walk alongside someone who is terminally ill. True love and acceptance is found in this most vulnerable time. I've learned showing up and being with someone who is facing death is the closest you can be to another human being.
Anything else you'd like to share?
"Where you start isn't necessarily where you finish!" This quote applies to so many facets of life, but for students it may be helpful to think about when applying to colleges.
This alumni is open to your questions and follow-ups.
In order to protect anonymity, we will pass along your message and they can choose whether to respond.
My favorite spot in or around Palo Alto
Rinconada and Foothill Parks
[map showing Rinconada Park]
