My life has been a journey, down a winding path that led me to pursuing my CDL and career in trucking. Since I was in grade school, I’ve dreamed of having a husband, children, career, and a couple of dogs to go on hikes with. It seemed like a simple dream: a loving family and a career. My dream came to a halt after becoming a single mother in high school. After moving away from home, I quickly went from dreams and dances to survival mode. Constantly trying to keep my head above water while my feet didn’t touch the floor and I hadn’t yet learned how to swim. It was no longer about my future now it was about fixing the present. During my search for the right job, I realized that the only way to plan for my daughters future is to go to college and pursue a career. Going to college with a young child was one of the hardest things that I have ever pursued. What made it hard was trying to find myself and a career that fit me and had an ending salary that made a difference in our lives. A salary that meant that I would never have to tell my daughter “no” when she asked for a candy bar at checkout. A salary that freed me from the limitations I unknowingly inflicted on myself and an innocent child. I tried a few majors and career paths that my family and friends suggested. Suggestions that made sense and seemed to line up with my ultimate goal. However, none of the majors captured who I was and brought joy to my heart. It took me twenty years to find the right career. I reflected on my work history and random knowledge acquired over the years. Separated opinions that others might have and discussed my thoughts with those close to me after I made the decision. I shared my newly found decision and how my courier jobs brought the most happiness and relief to me. There was always job security and the gratification of delivering to companies on time if not early. My mistake was looking at the courier positions as jobs while I searched for a career. Realizing that women can be truckers too changed my path. I truly appreciate the journey that led me to obtaining my CDL. I inadvertently took steps towards this goal before realizing. Every courier job was one more step in the right direction. Being true to myself and doing an in depth assessment of my wants versus needs, passions, and creativity my steps turned to strides. With the ultimate goal of owning a trucking company and helping others with a passion for driving realize that you can have a career doing something that you love. I am hoping to grow overtime and begin a program for troubled youths and help young people avoid straying down the wrong path. It is my hope that I can show them that trucking is not just a job, it's a career and a lifestyle. I want to send truck drivers out into the world with a passion for driving and continuing to bring products to the consumers and keep up with the demands of our ever-changing world. The world we live in is constantly changing, and I love to learn. I have gained a deeper understanding of myself and I know that I can do this. I have learned so much already and this is just the beginning of something that can be amazing.