Per My Last Email

Anonymous questions about work, life, and everything in between

Do you need to get it off your “desk”? Enter: Per My Last Email, an anonymous series where we’re getting the real deal on how women feel about their careers—the frustrating struggles, the joyful moments, and everything in-between. Whether you’re looking for real advice or just validation that we’re possibly all going through it right now, find their responses below.

How old are you?

27

What is your job?

Prosecutor for special victims cases (domestic violence, sex crimes, crimes against children)

What is your yearly income?

$96,000

What is your relationship status?

Married

Do you have any children?

No

Did you attend college?

Yes

If yes, are you currently using the degree you went to school for?

Yes

What did you want to be when you were a kid?

First a teacher, then a lawyer.

What do you think your younger self would think of you today?

I'm doing exactly what I planned to do, so I think little me would be impressed!

Do you love your work?

I do. It is so mentally taxing and heavy, but when I do make a difference for people, it means so much. It is also challenging like a puzzle, which I think most adults don't get to do in their jobs. I feel very lucky.

Do you think you should love your work?

I think people who do what I do have to love it, or else they will hate it. It's too hard to be "just a job."

What is your work-life balance like?

A work in progress. I get a lot of leave so I'm trying to be better about using it.

What is one thing you had to learn the hard way?

"Getting justice" often does nothing for victims' healing, no matter what they think ahead of time.

What is something you wish you'd known early in your career?

I'm still pretty early in my career, but I do wish I figured out how to not take things personally earlier.

What is one piece of advice every woman needs to hear?

Don't count yourself out of opportunities. Men apply to things they are not qualified for, and sometimes they get rewarded for it. Women need to do the same.

What's one thing you're struggling with? (at work or otherwise)

IMPOSTER SYNDROME. It is so hard to trust myself and my instincts.

What's one thing bringing you joy? (at work or otherwise)

I'm loving The Great on Hulu! TV rot time is very important in my journey towards work-life balance.

Have something you want to get off your desk? Answer this anonymous questionnaire to be included in a future edition of Per My Last Email: