We asked some fantastic entrepreneurs and creatives to tell us about their first job in their field. Check out their stories below.

Deeann Hodge

After earning my master’s degree in social work, I began my career at a children’s psychiatric hospital. Many of the children in our care had been removed from their homes due to abuse, and it was heartbreaking to witness such young lives affected by severe trauma. This experience gave me firsthand insight into the struggles these children faced and deepened my commitment to helping them heal. After leaving the hospital, I transitioned to a Therapeutic Foster Care agency, where I served as a Resource Coordinator. In this role, I focused on placing children with emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs into supportive foster homes and building a strong network of resources around them. Many of these children had experienced similar traumas to those I had encountered at the hospital. These early roles not only shaped my professional path but also fueled my passion for working with children and advocating for their well-being, which continues to drive me in my career today. Read more>>

Brittany Johnson

I am a caring, outgoing, loving person. So when i landed a job at 19 at a assistant living facility i knew i wanted to take care of people. I then did my research to up my status and got deeper in the field to take care of people. Read more>>

Kimberly Williams

I am a very spiritual person and believe the universe, source, God, love – is always working for us. My first job in the field of social work and mental health was a testament to this. I had just moved in with my parents to save money during graduate school, planning to get my Masters in Social Work. Within a week of being there the repair man for their water heater was super friendly. He found out I was job hunting and said “Go to Morningstar Boys Ranch. My daughter works there and I know they are hiring.” I dropped in two days later, interviewed on the spot and had a job. I had NO interest in working with teenagers and was terrified as I started but found that I loved it. The resiliency of those young men, living in a residential program, working through past traumas and trying to heal. It was an honor to be a part of their process and to this day teens are one of my favorite groups to work with. I love that they are tackling their healing process way sooner than I did. Read more>>