I am thankful my daughters see that I am passionate about my career and am hopeful they will pursue their own without hesitation.

Seven years ago, I had earned a degree in early childhood psychology and was thrilled to be working at a wonderful nonprofit providing counseling services and family consultation. I had held the position for two years when I learned that I was pregnant with my first child, and shortly thereafter, a managerial position became available. I was encouraged to apply for it.

The position was an opportunity to delve more deeply into the world of Head Start, a program I had become very passionate about that provides education and health services to low-income children and their families. I was unsure. I questioned my ability to take on new responsibilities while pregnant and to make it work once the baby was born.

How would I juggle being a new mom with having a new job? I also wondered if it was the best thing for the agency, given my upcoming maternity leave. On the other hand, would I have an opportunity like this down the road?

I had to make a choice to either keep my current position, which was safe and comfortable, or to pursue this opportunity despite my fears. Ultimately, I forced myself to think long-term. I knew that I wanted to work within the field and this position sounded like the perfect fit for my background and skills. I accepted the job while three months pregnant.

Several years and three children later, it has been an amazing experience. Taking the job opened up additional opportunities and I have since been promoted to Disabilities Coordinator. I have learned and grown more than I ever could have imagined and have fallen even more in love with my organization. I am thankful that my daughters see that I am passionate about my career and am hopeful that they will pursue their own without hesitation.