Obstacles you faced

Time permitting, your Lead Panelist may ask: “What challenges did you face to get to your current position?” Your response should take no more than 45 seconds.

Think about the obstacles you faced when you were the students’ age. Maybe you didn’t get great grades, or had family problems or challenges outside of school. How did you handle these obstacles? IGNITE Students need to hear that life isn’t perfect and they don’t need to be; they can find success and overcome struggles. Don’t be afraid to be honest here, as authenticity helps students relate.

This is also a great opportunity to highlight the support you’ve received in your career journey from mentors and allies.

Sample Answers: Marcella on Challenges She’s Faced

Sample Answers: Liz, Marcella, and Shaude’ on Allies

Note: The Lead Panelist will be monitoring the time, and you may not get to this question—that’s ok! These are also topics you can incorporate into your earlier introduction. For example, you can mention obstacles and how you’ve overcome them when you share about your experience growing up. You can always add more thoughts during student Q&A, too!