Never say never. Life has a way of taking you places you swore you’d never go – and teaching you lessons you never knew you needed.

As a sophomore attending the University of Michigan-Flint, I discovered I was pregnant with twins just after being accepted into the Nursing program. Soon after, I faced homelessness by choice, couch surfing, a cervical cancer diagnosis, and unemployment. Since 2000, my work at the university has consisted of work-study positions, where I've split my time between Student Life and Student Development.

When I paused my studies, I sought employment beyond university work-study and turned to a mentor for guidance. Instead, I was told that because I was pregnant, unmarried, and considered an unsuitable role model, there were no opportunities for me.

Those words hurt. But they also taught me something I would carry with me: sometimes the person you expect to guide you becomes part of the lesson. Eventually, I decided to end that mentorship and choose a different path forward.

Without the encouragement I thought I needed, I had to find the courage to keep moving forward. That journey led me to Career Alliance, where I participated in on-site, work-related activities and connected with a career coach. Their support gave me direction and helped me take the next step, even when the progress felt slow. Career Alliance became another hurdle in my life to overcome as I worked toward the next level.

At the time, the next level meant flipping burgers at McDonald's while six months pregnant.

I used to say, "I would never work at McDonald's." That experience humbled me and taught me that no job is beneath me, no chapter is wasted, and unexpected places can reveal who we are. It also showed me the value of encouragement, guidance, and having someone willing to see potential before we can see it in ourselves.

My journey has not followed the path I imagined, but every job, setback, hurdle, and detour has shaped me. Now, I don't say never. I say, "Everything happens for a reason."

My career is evolving, my business is growing, and my story is still being written.

Never be ashamed of where you had to start. Be proud of how far you're determined to go.