Job Rejections Nearly Broke Me
Until a “Temporary” Gig Changed My Entire Career
It was 2008.
And the economy was reeling.
I had degrees, internships, and drive — but no offers.
I applied everywhere.
Hundreds of resumes.
Countless ghostings.
Confidence? Shot.
I was doing what most job seekers do:
➡️ Spraying and praying with no clear strategy.
Then came FEMA.
A short-term role helping Hurricane Sandy survivors.
Not sexy.
Not stable.
Not what I had imagined.
But here’s the twist…
That “Nothing Job” Became the Catalyst that I Needed
It taught me:
✅ How to lead with empathy in crisis.
✅ How to navigate complex organizations under pressure.
✅ That small acts of service shape lasting impact.
✅ The real value of emotional intelligence in the workplace.
Suddenly, I wasn’t “just another applicant.”
I had stories. I had skills. I had substance.
That one opportunity — the one I almost dismissed —
opened the door to tech.
Today?
I lead enterprise AI initiatives and coach the next wave of AI PMs navigating change, doubt, and career pivots just like I did.
Here’s What Most People Get Wrong About Their Career
That “stepping stone” job you’re undervaluing?
That detour you’re trying to skip?
It might be your launchpad.
Success often hides in sideways moves.
Clarity comes after the leap — not before.
