Lakiesha Lynnell Miller

I attribute my success to perseverance, determination, and the support of those around me throughout my journey. Earning my bachelor’s degree stands out as my most notable achievement because it was not easy; I faced many personal challenges along the way, but I kept reminding myself that I had come too far to stop. As the first person in my family to pursue higher education, I wanted to set a strong example for my children and show them that as a woman, I can build a career, raise a family, and pursue my dreams simultaneously. With three daughters and two sons, my goal is to be a positive role model for them and demonstrate that education and ambition can create opportunities for a better future. I remember struggling through coursework and even feeling overwhelmed to the point of tears, but once I pushed through, things began to click, and I developed a genuine passion for learning and growth. I feel truly blessed by the path I have traveled and grateful for the people who supported and encouraged me along the way, which has played a significant role in helping me reach where I am today.

The best career advice I ever received was from my sister, who encouraged me to turn a challenging situation into an opportunity for growth after I experienced a layoff. She suggested that I take a 6–8 week tax preparation course, which ultimately opened a new career path for me in tax preparation. At the time, it felt like a risk, but I decided to invest in myself and my future. That decision not only helped me develop new skills but also allowed me to build a rewarding career in a field I may not have otherwise explored. I learned that sometimes unexpected changes can lead to the best opportunities, and I am grateful for her advice because it helped launch me into a successful and meaningful professional direction.

My advice to young women entering my industry is to pursue your education and never stop believing in your ability to grow and succeed. Stay persistent, even when challenges arise, because you can be a strong woman, care for your family, and still achieve your professional and career goals. Don’t be afraid to continue learning, seek out opportunities to expand your skills, and surround yourself with people who encourage and support your ambitions. With determination, confidence, and hard work, you can create the life and career you aspire to have.

The biggest challenges in my field right now include managing the intense workload during tax season while maintaining high-quality, personalized client service. There is also the challenge of balancing hands-on client work with career growth opportunities that may lead to managerial roles, which often reduce direct client interaction. At the same time, these challenges also present opportunities to grow professionally by developing leadership skills, improving efficiency through new technologies, and finding ways to provide even greater value to clients while advancing within the industry.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life include trustworthiness, providing non-judgmental and compassionate client care, tenacity, service to others, and a strong commitment to education and continuous learning. I believe building trust with clients and colleagues is essential to creating meaningful and lasting professional relationships. I strive to approach every situation with patience, integrity, and dedication, while also staying focused on personal and professional growth. These values guide my decisions and help me maintain a balanced, purpose-driven life both in my career and with my family.