Career Roadmap
Tina's work combines: Law, Writing, and Being Creative
See more careers and stories that connect to your interests.
Take Roadmap Quiz
Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
A. Philp Randolph Campus H.S.
Bachelor's Degree
English Language and Literature, General
Lincoln University
Doctorate
Juris Doctor
Villanova Law School
Certification
Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter
American Institute
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Lawyers:
Bachelor's Degree: English Language and Literature, General
Doctorate: Juris Doctor
Certification: Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
My life route was definitely traveled down broken roads. I grew up in the South Bronx along with my three sisters. We grew up on welfare and the stigma associated with it.
2.
I was a very shy child who found solace in reading and writing. After high school, I planned to stay home to attend college. My H.S. guidance counselor convinced me to go away to college - glad I did.
3.
I always wanted to become an attorney but didn't know how to make this happen. I met a 'real life attorney' who showed me how to study for the LSAT and apply to law school. I graduated from Villanova.
4.
Life remained tough after law school. Despite graduating and passing several bar exams, I could not find a job. My first job out of law school was opening mail. I needed to pay my bills, so I did it.
5.
My first job as an attorney, my paycheck kept bouncing. My second job, I almost lost my sanity as my boss was a tyrant. Ten legal jobs later, I landed at Travelers. God blessed my broken roads.
6.
Almost 13 years later, I am still here - and happy!
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Myself:
I was very shy, insecure and had zero self confidence. I grew up very poor and I allowed this to determine my self-worth. Even after I graduated from law school and passed several bar exams, I lacked self confidence. I stood in my own way for many years.
How I responded:
I sought help from mentors and trusted advisers. I also took a good, long look in the mirror and I made the decision to work on the inside of me. For me, this meant working on my mind, soul and spirit. I began to see myself as God sees me. I'm happy to say that I have gained my confidence and I have learned to fully accept and love myself. Now, I'm less afraid to show up. I allow others to see me for who I am and I let my voice be heard, even if my voice sounds a little different than others :>)
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
There were so many people who helped me in life! At every turn in my life, someone was always there to extend a hand to help. It really is true that "no man is an island." No matter your circumstances, if you remain open, someone will help you.