I started studying data science when it was the up-and-coming profession, convinced it held all the answers. But when the pandemic hit, I decided to prioritize real-life experience. Managing schedules, handling logistics, coordinating travel—and none of it for myself—was underwhelming. Was it glamorous? No. It was foundational. When you learn how to run a day smoothly, you create space for bigger ideas to take shape.

The more smoothly I handled the essentials, the more trust I earned. With that trust came non-traditional tasks: sitting in meetings, brainstorming ideas, and managing creative projects. As the roles blended together, smooth operations and adaptability became the priority. As responsiveness and foresight became allies, my connection to the work deepened. It was getting good.

You wouldn’t trust someone hired to organize your closet to manage your entire household. That’s why bringing coffee or answering a Slack isn’t just about the task—it’s about reliability and boundaries. Once trust is built, the traditional understanding of roles changes. Sometimes you’re making a restaurant reservation. Sometimes you’re setting up a stand for a tennis tournament. Sometimes you’re running around Manhattan in a tennis skirt, spreading brand awareness. Adaptability and trust turns challenges into opportunities.