Single Mom Defies Odds, Achieves Six-Figure Salary Without Degree
UPDATE: Audrey Serna, a 33-year-old single mother, has turned her life around by achieving a six-figure salary without a college degree. This remarkable story unfolds as she reflects on her journey from dropping out of Oglethorpe University in 2010 to becoming a successful payroll operations manager in the Washington, D.C. area.
In a powerful account, Serna reveals her struggles and triumphs as she navigated the challenges of finding stable employment while raising two children. After only two semesters of college, she withdrew and faced the daunting task of job hunting without a degree. “I felt like a total failure leaving school at 20 years old,” Serna shared, emphasizing the stigma she faced during her job search.
Serna’s journey was further complicated by her unexpected pregnancy in 2014. Despite these challenges, she secured her first 9-to-5 job in payroll, which marked a turning point in her career. She approached her role with determination and quickly impressed upper management, leading to a managerial position that she held for six years.
“Job searching while pregnant was frustrating,” Serna admitted, highlighting the biases she encountered. “When hiring managers saw that I was pregnant, that was usually the end of the road for me.” However, her drive to support her family propelled her forward, ultimately leading to her current role where she earns well into the six figures.
As a mother of two, with no support from the fathers of her children, Serna’s resilience shines through. During the pandemic, she sought new opportunities and leveraged her network on LinkedIn to land a job that brought her closer to her financial goals. “I can pay my bills, and I’m working on improving my credit,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to financial stability.
Serna also shared her budgeting strategies, noting that she focuses on saving for long-term goals like homeownership and travel. She reflects on her past struggles, stating, “There are always months that are tighter than others, but as someone who has had many bad years financially, I try to give myself grace and know that things will get better.”
Now, looking back, Serna expresses no regrets about her decision to leave college. “Education is obviously important, and while college does not define your worth, it can definitely make things easier,” she said. She encourages others who may be struggling with similar decisions to remember that success can come through various paths.
As her journey continues, Serna has not ruled out returning to college in the future but acknowledges that the costs present a significant barrier. “What’s right for you is not what’s right for somebody else,” she advises, urging others to pursue their unique paths to success.
Audrey Serna’s inspiring story serves as a powerful reminder that determination and resilience can lead to success, regardless of traditional educational routes. Her journey resonates with many and highlights the importance of believing in oneself, regardless of the obstacles faced.
