Laura Pierson

I attribute my success largely to having a very supportive family and social network, which has provided me with a strong foundation. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with many knowledgeable and encouraging female mentors who have played a significant role in my development. They have helped me clarify my goals and have consistently encouraged me to engage in both personal and professional growth, inspiring me to continuously improve and pursue new opportunities.

The best career advice I have received is to challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone, because staying within what feels familiar doesn't necessarily promote growth. Pushing boundaries and embracing new challenges has been instrumental in my professional development, helping me learn new skills and build confidence along the way.

The career advice I would offer is to pursue what you are passionate about. If you're unsure where your passion lies, I encourage you to keep exploring and stay curious—finding your true passion can be a journey. While balancing the many roles and hats women wear can be challenging, I believe it’s entirely possible and incredibly rewarding when you align your career with what truly excites you. Additionally, I believe that confidence is something that is built over time; it’s a process that develops through experience, perseverance, and self-reflection. Gaining confidence doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistent effort and a positive mindset, it becomes stronger and more ingrained, empowering you to take on new challenges and grow both personally and professionally.

One of the biggest opportunities in my career thus far has been the chance to serve as a co-owner at Journeys Toward Healing Counseling Center. It was a great honor to be brought on by my supervisor and the board to take on this larger-capacity role. I truly appreciate this new adventure and the opportunities it has provided for growth, leadership, and making a meaningful impact in the community. Additionally, I had the privilege of creating an annual mental health awareness art competition themed "Journeys Toward Healing." This initiative provided a valuable platform to promote mental health awareness and offered community members a creative way to express what healing means to them and to share their story in a unique way, fostering connection and understanding around an important issue. Balancing a work caseload with advocacy and passion projects can indeed be challenging, as it requires managing time effectively and prioritizing multiple commitments. However, I believe that integrating these passion areas into my professional life not only enriches my work but also motivates me to stay engaged and fulfilled. It’s about finding a balance and making intentional choices to ensure that both aspects receive the attention they deserve, ultimately leading to a more rewarding and impactful career.

Both personally and professionally, I have learned that life doesn’t always go according to plan, and unexpected situations can arise at any time. Because of this, I believe it’s essential to do what you love and to make time for those passions. Life can be surprising, and waiting for the perfect moment might mean missing out on opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Embracing the present and pursuing what truly matters to you is key to living a meaningful and rewarding life.