Melanie Moore

Some people might call it "biting off more than you can chew," but I have always been the sort of person to take on a challenge. My first job was also my first time managing retail. I had been hired less than two months when my manager left for another job. Suddenly I had a store. A real, honest-to-goodness store with money and responsibilities and keys.

I had one obstacle after another thrown in my path from the moment I was put in charge. I hadn't even officially completed my assistant manager training. I didn't know where the vacuum bags were kept, had never done a floor set on my own, and couldn't even begin to tell someone where to find the manual override for the lights in the store. And the best part? It was November, which meant my first Black Friday. But with a mix of logical and creative thinking, quick problem solving, and a lot of coffee, I made it through.

After a few months there, I knew I could do any job. All of my post-grad doubts in my abilities faded away and left me with a redefining clarity and confidence. I wouldn't trade those trying months for anything. They've made me stronger and more prepared for whatever the future brings my way.