Some things have to end for better things to begin.?I graduated law school, and decided not to practice law. Instead, I found joy in technology at Zeal IT Consultants.
About a year ago, I was substitute teaching and trying to stay afloat while job hunting. I couldn't even afford medical insurance. I felt embarrassed, and ashamed that I didn't even sit for the bar exam (especially with my mom worrying everyday, as mom's typically do). I went through 45 interviews, sometimes three or four a day. It felt like a marathon with no finish line in sight. The biggest hurdle? My candidacy for the Texas State Legislature, which was often a dealbreaker for many companies.
My journey started back in law school. Two years into my studies, I developed an app to help formerly incarcerated individuals determine their eligibility to clean their records and sustainably transition back into society. The pro bono project gave them the power to understand hard legal jargon, so that they can apply for jobs and housing. This experience made me realize I didn’t want to practice law in the traditional sense. Instead, I wanted to merge my creative entrepreneurial skills with technology and law. I knew I wanted to make a broader impact beyond the courtroom.
Then, after my year as Miss Texas, I reconnected with David T. from Zeal IT Consulting, thanks to LinkedIn. Funny story—David first reached out three years ago when I was in law school, and I completely "ghosted" him (I was convinced at the time that linkedin wasn't "cool"??). Fast forward, and now I’m at the best place I’ve ever worked, with a team and mentors like Heather Potter that support my political ambitions and professional growth.
David’s personal story of resilience, his family’s escape from Vietnam, reminded me of my own parents' sacrifices to build a better future. This shared spirit of perseverance and caring for others, made it clear: Zeal was where I belonged.
Give yourself space to evolve, and grow. Trust that you will find a way. Failure or quitting doesn't mean you are weak. It makes you stronger. Today marks ten months. Here's to many more work anniversaries! #jobjourney #law #lawschool