Alumni Spotlight: Destiny Hamblin

Destiny Hamblin, a graduate of Wilson (now Silas) High School and Concordia University–Portland, turned her passion for teaching into a rewarding career in educational nonprofits. Now a Senior Regional Program Manager at Junior Achievement of Washington, Destiny’s journey highlights the value of adaptability, hands-on experience and embracing new challenges. She encourages students to get involved, explore new opportunities and pursue their passions without fear. Connect with Destiny on LinkedIn.

What inspired you to pursue your field of study or career path? What tips would you share with students interested in pursuing a career in your field?

I wanted to be a teacher initially. As I went through the process, I found that I didn’t fit the teacher role in the traditional capacity. So, I pivoted to educational nonprofits. It was still serving the purpose that got me interested in teaching but in a different capacity. The nonprofit field is difficult but rewarding, because you are all-hands-on-deck. You will be growing and learning about all facets of business. You are doing something different daily, but you get to see your impact in real time.

Were there any specific courses or experiences during your college years that were particularly impactful? What role did internships or part-time jobs play in your career development?

I went to a religious university and was not religious. Oddly enough, those courses were very impactful because I learned about something that could help me understand others who were not in my same bubble. My student teaching experience was also impactful, because that was when I realized that I enjoyed the public service industry and that it was something I wanted to continue to pursue, no matter what job I was doing. I did not have internships because I had student teaching, and I could go straight into teaching. I did have a “part-time” student job (I worked more than part time, but it was supposed to be a part-time position) as the activities coordinator at my school. That was where I learned how to plan events, work with community members and utilize a budget. It was impactful because I use all those skills in my current position.

 What advice would you give to current college students? Anything you wish you knew then that you know now?

If you can take classes where you can explore something new, and something that can get you to meet people different than you, do it. There will be electives you can take, so take the opportunity to try something completely new. You never know if you will find something you love that you never would have experienced before. Also, be involved at school. That can be student government, clubs, events … just do something. This is the time to meet new people, enjoy yourself and determine what interests you. Explore those interests while you are in college, because that is the time when you can explore.

 What were some challenges you faced after graduation? How did you overcome them?

I was scared to graduate because I knew I was not ready to be a teacher. I decided to take a gap year and do a year of service with City Year. That was a grueling experience; I moved across the country and started a new life. There were ups and downs throughout, but I learned so much about myself and what I wanted out of my life. I also struggled with imposter syndrome. I was holding myself back because I didn’t think I was ready to teach, even though all signs pointed to being ready. I learned that if you are afraid to do something, just do it. Don’t let fear be the reason you don’t pursue that job or move away from your family.

What do you like to do for fun when you’re not working? How do you ensure you have a good work-life balance?

When I am not working, I like to watch TV, play with my dog or do art projects at home. I also enjoy going to the theater, sporting events and travel. To ensure I have a good work-life balance, I make sure that I use all of my time off that my work gives me. If you get vacation time, use it for vacation time. I had to realize that work was not my entire life, and that I could say no to work obligations if they interfered with my personal life. When I realized that I could have a personal life and that work was not the be-all and end-all, it opened up my life.