Experience is often valued because of the lessons prior jobs have theoretically provided us with. While hearing about those lessons isn’t a replacement for actually experiencing it, we thought it would be very helpful to create a space where sharp and generous members of the community can come together to share stories and lessons learned at prior jobs for the benefit of others.

D’vaughn Delpit

During a difficult time in my life, I was given the opportunity to participate in the Disney College Program (DCP). I worked for Disney as a Merchandise Cast Member in Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fl. This job, no – this experience, is what helped me learn what it meant to provide customers with a level of customer service that feels like you’ve temporarily become part of the family. During this time, getting to make magic for thousands of Disney patrons, I gained skills of how to go above and beyond to help clients find Magic in our experiences/interactions together. Read more>>

Erica Miller

Before becoming a business owner and professional organizer, I spent my days as an elementary school teacher. While in the classroom my students were constantly being introduced to new concepts and having to use different learning strategies to make connections and foster understanding. It’s not always easy learning something that is new and unfamiliar, but my job as a teacher was to provide a variety of methods to help each student achieve understanding, master grade level content, and provide a fun and safe learning environment to ultimately succeed in the classroom. I always encouraged my students to embrace these new learning opportunities and exercise patience in the learning process no matter how difficult it may seem at the time so let’s just say I’m taking my own advice these days as I navigate my role as first time business owner. I honestly feel like I’m back in school myself, figuring out my footing as I learn the ins and outs of operating a small business. I learn something new everyday! Read more>>

Samantha Smith

One of the my most valuable work experiences came from my time working as a cashier at Office Depot during college.  I quickly discovered that the key to interactions is patience and a sprinkle of humor! Every day was a chance to hone my customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills. It was basically a crash course in adapting quickly to different scenarios! Working in retail also underscored to me the importance of hard work and dedication. Every employee played a vital role in the team, working towards shared goals. Beyond sharpening interpersonal skills, I also learned profound lessons in empathy that shaped who I am to this day. It’s so important to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and work to understand their perspective! Read more>>

Rebecca Raine

After finishing beauty school, I landed a job at a salon my mom loved. Spoiler alert: it was a total letdown. The place thrived on gossip—stylists trash-talking guests, each other, and even themselves. It felt more like high school than a career and I definitely didn’t fit the cookie-cutter hairstylist mold. Fast forward a few months and I was over it. I traded my shears for espresso shots and dove headfirst into the world of coffee. There was something electric about the constant chatter, the daily grind, and the endless amounts of caffeine. Read more>>