I have learned that we all start somewhere. Sometimes that starting point is blurry or out of focus, especially when family support is lacking and options for the future are so vast. Such was the case with me.

 Living with my extended family, I was anxious to start working to sustain myself and contribute to my own growth and development. Feeling the urgency of my situation, I met with my bishop to access the programs offered at Deseret Industries.

Through my training at the DI, I learned vital skills such as communication with coworkers and supervisors, learning rules and regulations in the workplace and the importance of following them. This, coupled with effective job coaching, allowed me the opportunity to serve as a lead associate.

While obtaining these skills, I still found myself floundering for what I desired to do long-term: photography. I doubted my ability to obtain a career in such a field, but through coaching and guidance, I identified ways to promote my talent and use networking techniques to obtain work in the field I was passionate about.

I interviewed with the world famous San Diego Zoo, utilizing the critical skills I learned through LDS Employment Resource Services. The day after my interview, I was offered a job as a staff photographer at the zoo. I am now feeling the success of my developmental journey I began at DI. Truly my blurry start has evolved into a more clear focus for success. I was offered a job as a staff photographer at the zoo.