How Identity Influenced an Executive Director's Career at Central Coast State Parks Association
Sierra's low-income upbringing instilled a "determined, diligent" work ethic and frugality, shaping their career in the non-profit sector where resourcefulness is key; this background fostered deep appreciation for every opportunity and individual contributing to their organization, highlighting the impact of personal experiences on professional success.
Overcoming Challenges, Resilience, Motivation, Executive/Leadership, Achieving Goals
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Sierra Emrick
Executive Director
Central Coast State Parks Association
UCSB
No
Environmental & Related Sciences
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Sales and Client Management
Scholarship Recipient, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Sierra's resourcefulness and determination, developed from her low-income background, enabled her to excel in school and sports, instilling a strong work ethic that has served her well throughout her career.
2. Her upbringing fostered a deep appreciation for financial prudence and budgeting skills, making her highly effective in nonprofit management where resourcefulness is critical.
3. Sierra's background instilled in her a profound sense of gratitude and empathy for others, enhancing her leadership abilities and creating a supportive and appreciative work environment.
Transcript
As someone who came from a low-income background, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
I grew up with a dad who was an artist and a mom who worked in special education. We just never had enough for things; there were definitely times we went to my grandma's house for dinner because we didn't have food.
My parents were divorced, so I was moving from house to house and not always knowing where I was going to sleep that night. It was stressful. I think it made me a very serious kid.
I didn't want to put any more pressure on my parents, so I did really well in school and sports. It gave me a determined, diligent mindset: "I have to be good, I have to do good." I've been trying to unpack that for the rest of my life.
However, it also gave me the beautiful gift of working really hard and living very simply, within my means. Working in nonprofits, you have to figure out how to make things work financially and be realistic.
In terms of budgeting, I'm pretty good at staying within budget because of my background. I also have a tremendous appreciation for anyone who's making it.
Coming from that low-income background made me appreciate every opportunity I have. Every job opportunity, every human who comes in that door and wants to give their time to us, just blows me away. It made me really grateful, frugal, crafty, and creative. I'm very grateful for that.