Thanks for writing this Jules. I spent a huge part of my 20s searching for a role model who was a “future me”. I never found her because I realize no one has paved my path before. It’s okay if you can’t find a role model who looks or has the same trajectory as you. Just find people who have aspects your want to embody and learn from them.

I agree with the power of role models not just to inspire but to show you what’s possible. You won’t shoot for something that you perceive as impossible. Role models and mentors demystify what’s possible from impossible for us. I really hope more people will share their stories like you so we all know that it’s okay to struggle and overcome hardships. We are not alone in our nontraditional backgrounds. In fact, our differences individualize us and make us stronger. Our differences are an asset, not a weakness.