We asked some brilliant entrepreneurs, artists and creatives to reflect on lessons they’ve learned at prior jobs. We’ve shared highlights below.

Sienna Wang

I studied engineering in college, and after getting my Master’s degree, I started working in the tech industry as a product manager. Despite living and working in a rational environment, I have always been an emotional classical music fan. Especially after working a long day in the office, a piece of Brahms or Mahler can always comfort me. So no matter how busy I am, I listen to music everyday and attend concerts almost every weekend. Read more>>

Hillel Teplitzki

I’m a composer for media, creating music for film, television, and video games—a dream career that I’ve worked hard to turn into a reality. I’ve been fortunate to contribute to over ten AAA video game franchises and even compose for a Disney+ animated series, making music my sole source of income. But it wasn’t always like this.One of the most surprising elements that helped me build my career was something seemingly unrelated—working as a waiter for a large chunk of my 20s. There’s a common stigma in the entertainment industry about having a side job, as if it somehow diminishes your credibility as an artist. But the reality is that most of us, myself included, start our careers while juggling other jobs to make ends meet. Read more>>

Hana Zacapu

In my job, I learned the importance of giving my all in everything I do. Whether tackling a major project or handling a small daily task, I found that approaching each responsibility with dedication and effort not only improved my performance but also earned the trust and respect of my team. This mindset taught me that consistent commitment to excellence creates opportunities for growth and helps foster a positive and productive work environment. Read more>>