I have the heart of a teacher. Growing up in New York City, I dreamed of having my own classroom and helping children grow and develop. My passion as a young girl led me to study education in my undergraduate college career. I graduated with German Language Teacher Certification for Pennsylvania and New York in the United States.

After graduation, I began work with United Nations Child Care Centre. My time there was rewarding, and I loved the children. After a few years, I wanted to make a difference in a new way; so I applied and was hired as a General Service staff member in the Office of Human Resources Management. After five years, I passed the General Services to Professional (G to P) examination and moved my family to Geneva, Switzerland as I developed my career with the United Nations.

I spent two and a half years in Geneva, working for the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) which promotes pan-European economic integration among other things. The move was a big adjustment for me, as I was relocating with my husband and young children. Learning a new culture and a new city was a challenge, but the transition turned out to be one of the greatest experiences of our lives.

Currently, I am a Staff Development Officer in the Office of Human Resources Management in New York City, where 14,000 staff members are employed and supported across the globe. I utilize teaching skills in my every day duties. Instead of young people, I empower and guide staff members through career moves at the United Nations.

The Career Resource Centre (CRC) is under my direct supervision. The CRC provides professional development opportunities and support to United Nations staff members applying for promotions, working on a Personal History Profile or honing interview skills. The Centre also provides 1:1 career consulting and mock interviews, which offer personal guidance.

One day at work, a highly motivated staff member approached me about the General Services to Professional (G to P) examination. The G to P is one of the biggest challenges a United Nations staff member may encounter when advancing their career. I passed the exam, so I was in a unique position to offer support, guidance and an introduction to the resources of the CRC. I was delighted to hear that the staff member passed the exam. Success stories are the most rewarding part of my job.

I also supervise the Mentoring Programme for Junior Professionals. This programme matches up one junior professional with a senior professional mentor who assists with career coaching, networking and helping the mentee master the ins and outs of the Organization. The purpose of the Mentoring Programme is to offer the most support possible for Junior Professionals hoping to advance their career.

In my spare time, I enjoy New York City. It is a wonderful melting pot of culture. I like seeing Broadway shows, going to museums, finding new art and spending time with my family. On a weekend, you might find me enjoying an afternoon in the park with my children.