Do not say you “don’t like something”.
Hey there!
Sending you a cheery hello from New York! I joined Verizon 25 years ago and never imagined as a child I would have a career in tech. I started as a customer service representative and did this role of processing our customers orders online for about 3 years when I asked my supervisor to do something different. I was informed of another opportunity as a central office technician (COT) that required me to take a test for the position. I took the test and passed successfully and worked as a COT for another 2 years before deciding to apply for a management role to lead a team of COTs. The COT role involved me testing our circuits using a computer to make sure there was network connectivity end to end before we handed over the service to our customer. During this time, I decided to go back to school to finish my undergraduate degree in Business Management. Shortly after that, I decided to pursue a Master of Science in Network & Communications Management and Services from the Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey. As a part of the curriculum, I took several classes in wireless engineering that earned me a certificate in wireless technology as well. I took this path in education after discovering my passion for technology while working here in Verizon. Being a part of our Global Network and Technology team for approximately 23 years allowed me to work along with our field teams, our engineering teams and with our customers to deliver the services they order from us. I share this with you so that you can hear a story about someone who was not sure about what she wanted to do “when she grew up” and ultimately how I found a career that I love in the world of STEM. Please take the time as you are going through school, to explore all the opportunities around you. Do not say you “don’t like something” until you give it a chance and experience it. STEM careers can be exciting, depending on what role you are doing. There are many opportunities available because technology is advancing every day. We need more women in tech to open up the world to our different perspectives. Now is your time to discover your greatness and find the role that ignites your passion so that you do it with joy every day. Go be curious and be awesome!
