How was your first job different than you thought it would be?
I had never held a full time job before so I didn't know what to expect. Each day was exciting, interesting and an adventure.

What important lessons or skills learned in your first job have been instrumental in your success?
One of the most important lessons I learned was to be responsible for the tasks that were given to me. I learned about being reliable and accountable. One day, for example, my supervisor asked me to deliver something. On the way to make the delivery, I met someone in the firm who was going to the exact same place, so I asked that person to deliver the file for me. When I returned to the office, my supervisor learned of what happened and told me that he had entrusted me with delivering that very important file and expected me to deliver the package rather than hand it off to someone else who may not have delivered it right away. If someone asked me to do something, I was ultimately the person responsible for its completion.

Which of those lessons, and how, carried into subsequent jobs after your first? How do you use those skills in your position today?
In addition to learning to take responsibility and finishing a task thoroughly, I learned how to be part of a team. No matter what position you hold in an organization, you are an important member of that team. As such, you've got to carry your load so you don’t let the other members of the team down.

Have you seen how lacking those first job skills had negative effects on others?
The lack of so-called “soft skills” is a great concern to employers today. These “soft skills” can include basic work skills such as being on time, being reliable, the ability to take direction, anger management, and the ability to relate to other people effectively. Many skills can be taught, but these basic “soft” or “life” skills are harder to acquire if workers don’t appreciate their importance.

What obstacles that you faced had the greatest impact on your career path?
Everyone, at some point in their career, will face challenges and obstacles. Some may be very unfair. The important thing is not to lose hope and confidence in oneself. The challenges and difficulties I have faced have made me stronger and more empathetic. They've helped me become a better leader.

What people or outside factors affected your work ethic or motivated you the most to succeed?
My parents, and the values they taught me, are the most important influence on my life and my work.

What advice would you give to someone starting his or her first job?
Work hard, listen, and don't be afraid to ask for help!

What do you find most rewarding about your position today?
The most rewarding thing about my life today is working with the people at the Department of Labor. I love my job. I love coming to work everyday. And I love working with a great group of professionals who do so much to ensure the safety and security of America's workforce. It is very rewarding to help others.