I recently left a job at a law office after being there for just under a year. I had previously worked for five years in the mental health field and decided it was time to pursue another interest of mine, law. It was a great opportunity to learn a new set of skills and gain knowledge in a new field in which I had not previously worked. I made connections with co-workers and was able to support my community by providing customer service and information to our clients. Unfortunately, the environment at the office became unhealthy with a co-worker. My other co-workers were incredibly supportive and empowering women who collectively worked together to navigate the situation. Each of us as individuals had to make personal decisions about our futures with the law firm. With their support and experiences, I was able to set boundaries with the problematic co-worker, speak about how the experience affected me, and make an exit plan. This is a big deal for me as I am an introverted person and I have had difficulties expressing myself in the past. I was able to maintain my personal values by not tolerating the behavior I was subject to and witnessed. I am very proud of myself in how I responded professionally and with grace. While the outcome of this job was unexpected and disappointing, I learned and grew a lot. I was able to work with my therapist and my support network outside of work to understand my experience and explore my wants and needs with the situation. This has helped me know how to protect my mental health in difficult situations. I also made positive connections with my co-workers and clients and have a clear path about the goals I want to pursue in my career. It has inspired me to pursue further education and I plan to enroll in a Paralegal Certificate program. I have learned a lot from the women I worked with and feel stronger in my understanding of my own worth because of them. I have also learned the power I have within myself to make the best decisions for my wellness. I have a clear idea of how I want the following year to pan out with regard to my career and personal life. In order to pursue the Paralegal program, I need to be able to manage my current student debt from my undergraduate degree. Thank you for your consideration.