As an outsider, breaking into an industry can often seem like an impossible challenge and so we reached out to some very generous folks who agreed to share their stories of how they broke into their respective industries.

Elle Blakeney

It was not until my third year of nursing school at Clemson University that my passion for Aesthetic Medicine arose. After we began clinicals I recognized that the typical nursing path was not going to work for me. My years at Clemson were formative and during that time I recognized that I was not willing to give up my passion for art. Being artistic, creative, original, and independent were all qualities that were profoundly important to me, and I knew that if I couldn’t utilize these in my profession, I would not be content. Read more>>

Lizzie Hershberger

I learned who a victims advocate was during the time I was reporting my case. I had to wait until after my case to take training. I volunteered with a local victim service group for two years. I have continued my training to help others who are going thru the reporting and legal system. I have also expanded my work to testify as an expert on the Amish. Read more>>

Kenji Jones-Lane

I had just begun graduate school to obtain my Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I was in the very first class of my program, full of hope and promise. While my professor was doing the normal first day of class routine (introducing himself, reviewing the syllabus, and sharing his why), he mentioned that we, the students, would not be able to make money in our field until we receive our degree. Wait….WHAT? Read more>>

Jordan Garrison

I got started in the health and fitness industry after getting caught sneaking into a local gym with a buddy during the early morning hours. The owner showed up after I’d been sneaking in for a few weeks, and asked me and my buddy to sit down with him in his office. He was a HUGE man and took up half the office. We were terrified. He gave me an out. Told me if I’d come back and work for him, he’d let it slide. Read more>>

Rachel Karlin

I got my first job in the salon and spa Industry in January 2005. I was previously working in corporate America in a position that was sucking my soul drive. I was a client at a salon and fascinated by the industry. My hairstylist was the owner of the salon and I was in love with the energy and vibe I felt when I was in the space. In July 2004 she approached me about buying the salon. I successfully acquired the business in January 2005. Read more>>