Karissa McInerney

I would attribute my success to my family, especially those with backgrounds in the U.S. military and law enforcement - they were my biggest motivators in pursuing this career path. My professors have also been pretty good mentors throughout the whole thing, along with my parents and other family members who have supported me. Beyond that, I've had the support of my sorority sisters, which has given me a whole sisterhood to look up to. I think having that network of people who believe in me and guide me has been crucial. I also believe in just trusting the process and keeping an open mind, because even though I went through a lot of changes in high school about what I wanted to do - from dancer to engineer to where I am now - I eventually landed on my feet in a field that feels right for me.

The best career advice I've received is to keep an open mind and trust the process. I've learned that it's important to step out of your comfort zone and try new things, to really broaden your horizons. Throughout my journey, I've been told to trust my gut and believe that everything will work out - that you'll land on your feet. This advice has really resonated with me, especially as I've navigated through different career interests and challenges in my classes while trying to figure out my path forward.

I would say step out of your comfort zone and try new things. Broaden your horizons and don't be afraid to explore different paths. Trust the process and believe that everything will work out - you'll land on your feet. I never really focused on the whole gender aspect of going into this field. I kind of just went ahead and did it because that's what I wanted to do. At the end of the day, I don't think gender matters - it doesn't matter. So my advice is to just pursue what you're passionate about and be different.

I believe that no matter what, there's always going to be challenges and opportunities in any field. As for opportunities, I just kind of take them as they come. When there's a challenge, I figure my way through it. I don't really focus on specific obstacles like gender differences or anything like that - I just pursue what I want to do because that's what matters to me. I'm currently navigating the challenges of getting through my classes and trying to find a job as I prepare to graduate, but I approach each obstacle as it comes.

The values most important to me are standing your ground and being very alert. I believe in being aware of your surroundings and just looking around, paying attention to what's happening. I also think it's crucial to trust your gut - if you see something, say something. These values guide both my personal life and my work, especially as I pursue a career in Homeland Security and law enforcement where awareness and integrity are essential.