Her Story
About Desiree
I started in this field because my mom was an office manager in a law firm and I grew up around it. I have over 20 years experience with hands-on training, interning, and attending conventions sent by attorneys who invested in me. My specialty is workers' compensation case management, now focused on public safety officers. I am on the board of PINC nonprofit helping women and children in the community. A tragic double murder-suicide took my parents and brother when I was in my 20s, but I continued in the profession out of passion and resilience.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Desiree
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being resilient and not letting things get in your way or stop you. Life is going to happen and it's a privilege to wake up every day. Remembering that life doesn't stop for anybody has helped in my everyday life and career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received is to believe that you are capable. Challenging myself and believing I could do more than what I was doing or what others expected has advanced me in my profession. This mindset was instilled by an attorney early on.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women to be bold and authentically yourself, to not stop learning because there is no end to that. Trying new things keeps you passionate and there is always room for growth no matter what.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The field is very competitive like being thrown in with the sharks, sink or swim. There are many attorneys, often men, looking for mistakes to make you seem incompetent. It's important to value yourself, know what you know, and be confident in your capabilities.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value giving everything you have, showing up, work ethic, taking pride in your work, treating others with respect, understanding we are all on the same team, and helping others. I value people who don't ask for much but offer everything they can.
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