Anne Eagle Bull, MLS

My achievements have been profoundly shaped by my upbringing and the guidance of my parents and grandparents. Both of my parents attained master's degrees and made education a priority in their lives. Their commitment to learning allowed our family to enjoy a nice life growing up in Aberdeen, SD. We attended a parochial school that helped guide me in many ways. 

Although I did not fully comprehend the challenges they faced at the time, I now recognize the significant barriers they overcame. When my parents were young, college was not a realistic option for most people living on the reservation. To pursue higher education, they had to leave their community and step into unfamiliar environments. This decision required determination and resilience.

Watching my parents pursue education and overcome these obstacles has had a lasting impact on me. Their example not only demonstrated the importance of perseverance but also instilled in me that you can overcome obstacles and pursue the life that you want.

I spent many summers with my Grandma Lillian and Grandpa Dave they both were hard workers and had an impeccable work ethic. My grandma had a large garden, and she used that garden as a sustainable food source for the whole year.  She would preserve her vegetables and keep them in a root cellar for the year. I would watch my grandpa walk to the road and catch a ride to work. He was a self-taught carpenter by trade and a WWII veteran.  They taught me humility and to remain humble in your life and never forget your culture.

One piece of career advice that has had a lasting impact on me came during my time working for the Department of Defense. I was encouraged to create a clear vision for my future, write it down, monitor my progress, and continue working toward making that vision a reality. This guidance has remained with me and continues to influence my professional journey, helping me stay focused and motivated in pursuit of my goals. 

As I entered into the Human Resource field a piece of advice that stays with me is remember that there is a humanistic approach to everything and don't lose sight of that when communicating with employees. 

For young women seeking to advance in their careers, it is essential to embrace opportunities for professional development. Taking advantage of available trainings can significantly contribute to your growth and help you build the skills necessary for success. The journey may be challenging at times, but persistence is key—never give up on your goals.

Remember, many professionals started from circumstances similar to yours and have successfully navigated their way into fulfilling careers. Their stories serve as a testament to what is possible when you believe in yourself and remain dedicated.

Every step along the way, maintain your confidence and stay committed to both your personal and professional growth. By continuing to pursue development and believing in your abilities, you can reach your desired destination.

One of the most significant challenges facing job seekers today is the way companies handle recruitment processes. Many organizations lack a personal touch, often leading applicants to feel disconnected or undervalued. It is common for candidates to submit applications without ever receiving a response. This over-reliance on technology in recruitment has diminished interpersonal skills and reduced opportunities for meaningful communication. The absence of a humanistic approach, such as a courtesy call from human resources, can leave a negative impression of the company. Maintaining personal connections and showing respect for candidates is crucial; without these elements, prospective employees may question whether they want to work for such organizations. 

Treating everyone with respect in every aspect of life is a guiding principle that supports both personal and professional relationships. It is also important to acknowledge your achievements and give yourself credit when it is deserved—there is nothing wrong with celebrating your successes. Additionally, making time for yourself and your family helps maintain balance and well-being, ensuring that you stay grounded and fulfilled as you pursue your goals.