What I do now: Claims Specialist, Farmers Insurance

My other life: Four years ago when my son was born, I decided I needed to get off the couch and change my lifestyle. I started with small workouts and worked up to doing triathlons. I kept a journal about my experiences. When several friends read my journal, they said it was realistic and I should publish it. That’s how my self-published book, “When Big Boys Tri,” came to be. I also write for beginnertriathlete.com and serve on its board. I’ve been hired as a public speaker. Last year, I spoke at a Mayo Health System event in Wisconsin. I get e-mails every day about how people have changed their lives like I did. These e-mails keep me going. My journal is touching people’s lives, regardless of their size.

On communicating: My college professors stressed that communication is the backbone of human resources management. I think it’s the basis for life in general. After college, I realized that I liked keeping a journal and my writing evolved into more and more different areas. Writing articles is like therapy. When I write something that encourages people, it’s the ultimate payment.

After graduating from Tech: I worked in retail for six months and I’ve been in insurance ever since. I felt the claims field aligned with human resources because you’re working with people and solving problems. This is my fourteenth year in claims.

Advice to college-bound students: If you’re unsure of what your major should be, don’t declare. Spend time exploring your options and learning what you have a passion for.

On healthy lifestyles: Accept the level of fitness you’re currently at. You can’t run a marathon if you haven’t even jogged a minute. Take small steps, be careful in training, and, of course, consult a doctor before you start a new exercise program.

I knew I was grown up when: I said ‘I do.’

If I weren’t a claims specialist, I’d probably be: A motivational speaker. It’s my dream job.

If I’ve learned one thing in life, it is: You can learn from anyone, regardless of how much education they have. I believe a college diploma is a piece of paper on a wall. My character and all the experiences I took away from college are what define me.

Memory of Tech: Many times I had worked all night before my 8 a.m. class. I remember walking from the dirt parking lot through the Quad on the way to class. It was peaceful and refreshing after being up all night. Those walks to class reminded me of the small steps I was taking to get to the life I wanted to live.

My toughest professional challenge: In my job, it’s dealing with people in negative situations and not being callous. Oftentimes, it’s the first time they’ve been in this situation even though I deal with issues like theirs every day. I can’t assume they know what’s going on. It’s important to explain every detail and communicate as clearly as possible.

Triumph in my life: Proving that even I can do a triathlon. The first time I crossed the finish line the emotion was unbelievable. I have since finished 19 triathlons.