Growing up as a lesbian in Utah, a highly religious state, has brought many unique challenges. In the state of Utah, people value faith above all else, and those who do not fit the religious ideals are outcasts. And when it comes to the LGBTQ+ community, people in the church steer clear due to the "lifestyle" not aligning with their beliefs. People even go as far to hire employees that are religious or that fall into their standards. As a feminine presenting lesbian, I am able to fly under the radar around religious groups. Though because of this I tend to with-hold information about my personal life at work, due to a fear of being judged and alienated. When it comes to work I try to be the best worker in the office. Proving that I am valuable through my work ethic and performance. This is a safety net for me, because eventually people in the work place come to find that I am a lesbian and have a girlfriend. But if I am a hard worker maybe they will judge me a little less. Though I had one situation where I make the mistake of coming out in a workplace too early. I started work at a Dental office as an assistant and on my first day the Dentist's daughter, who was training me, asked if I was in a relationship. As someone who values honestly, I told the truth. That I have a girlfriend. The next day I was brought into the Dentist's office and sat down to talk about professionalism. I was told that I am not to talk about politics at work, he was referring to my sexual orientation. The Dentist then recited his religious beliefs to me, implying that my relationship did not align with his standards. I was crushed and terrified. I went home and cried to my girlfriend. I felt so embarrassed and isolated. I considered looking for a new job. But my girlfriend encouraged me to stay, and prove my work ethic. I was hesitant and nervous, but I did. After working at the office for 6 months, the same Dentist brought me into his office for another talk. He told me how he wished he would have never had the conversation with me and that he regretted it greatly. He applauded my on my work ethic and stated that I was one of the best Hygiene assistants who he had ever worked at his office. He then told me that I was put into his life by God to teach him to be more loving and open minded. After this conversation I was extremely emotional and conflicted. I'm glad I had the opportunity to work in an environment that challenged me and helped me to grow emotionally. Though I don't think I should have been put into that position in the first place. The presence of religion in the workplace is a great problem in Utah. As a lesbian in the state of Utah I felt discouraged to pursue Dental Hygiene. But I am a stronger woman now after the challenges I have faced. I am ready to continue my education in this career, no matter what others think.