Introductory Essay

When I think about how my past experiences have prepared me to transition into the workplace, I see a clear thread running through all of them—a love for problem-solving, learning, and creating things that help people. My path hasn’t been a straight line, but every step—from engineering to entrepreneurship to web development—has built the skills I need to succeed in any professional environment.

I started out studying Industrial Engineering at North Carolina A&T, where I learned how systems work, how to analyze processes, and how to make things more efficient. That foundation in problem-solving and organization shaped the way I approach all types of work. Later, I applied that same mindset when I worked as an Information Architect for IBM, helping design user-friendly digital systems that made complex information easier to understand and use. That experience helped me appreciate how technology and human behavior connect—something that continues to guide my work today.

After IBM, I began exploring my own ideas through entrepreneurship. I launched Culinary Healing, a wellness and plant-based food initiative, and Bull City Web, a digital services business where I helped local entrepreneurs build and manage their online presence. Running these ventures taught me a lot about accountability, client communication, and project management. I had to wear many hats—developer, marketer, designer, and customer service rep—and that experience gave me a deeper understanding of what it takes to manage projects from start to finish.

Today, I work as a Web Developer at UNC, which has been a great way to bring together everything I’ve learned so far. I get to use my technical skills from the UNC Web Development Bootcamp along with the analytical and creative abilities I’ve developed over the years. Collaborating with designers, researchers, and content strategists has strengthened my communication and teamwork skills, and working in a university setting keeps me learning and improving every day.

All of these experiences—academic, professional, and personal—have prepared me to transition smoothly into any workplace. I’ve learned how to adapt to new technologies, manage time effectively, communicate clearly, and deliver results. Most importantly, I’ve developed the confidence to learn on the fly and the humility to ask for help when needed.

In short, my journey from engineering to design to development has given me a well-rounded view of how ideas turn into real-world solutions. That’s what workplace readiness is all about—being able to take what you know, work with others, and make things better wherever you are.