Thank You For Being Such A Vital Part Of Our Team, Haley Hecktman. We Look Forward To Sharing More About You So Others Can Get To Know You Better!
Tell us a bit about your backstory and what led you down your current life path.
My career journey resembles less of a straightforward path and more of a winding, twisting road. I began as an early childhood education major specializing in special education. Although I cherished working with children, I had a persistent feeling that I could contribute more to the world. Writing has always held a special place in my heart, and when I discovered the opportunity to work as a grant writer, it ignited a spark within me. It was like I had finally unearthed my true passion, and I’m absolutely thrilled for this exciting new journey ahead!
What or who inspired you to pursue your major/career?
My grandfather was deeply involved in the world of non-profits, emphasizing the significance of giving back. This instilled in me a strong desire to be a part of such work as I grew up. As I matured, it became clear that I could meld my passion for writing with my dedication to community service. I discovered that grant writing aligns perfectly with the values that are closest to my heart. Thus, I am excited to embark on this journey now, as it harmoniously blends my passions and principles.
What is one thing you are most proud of achieving in your life?
Getting my master’s degree is a source of great pride for me. I achieved it during a tough time in my life when I was dealing with mental health challenges. Despite those difficulties, I pushed through and accomplished something meaningful for myself. It’s a testament to my determination and personal growth, reminding me that I can overcome obstacles and pursue my goals, even when things get tough.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
I am immensely grateful for my dad, who has been a significant influence on my journey. He has spent many years working in philanthropy, and I’ve always regarded his job as my dream career. My admiration for him stems from his unwavering passion for making a positive difference in the world.
One story that particularly stands out is when he shared a project he was working on to provide essential resources to underprivileged communities. Seeing his dedication and the real impact he was making in the lives of those in need left a profound impression on me.
He approached his work with a sense of purpose and fulfillment that I found inspiring. I realized that I, too, wanted to feel that sense of satisfaction and the knowledge that I was contributing to meaningful change. My dad’s commitment to giving back and his ability to create a tangible impact has been a guiding light in my own journey, shaping my aspirations and instilling in me the desire to make a positive difference in the world.
Share one professional development goal and one personal goal you have for the upcoming year.
On the work front, I’m eager to step up my grant writing game. I’m relatively new to this field, so my goal is to soak up as much knowledge and experience as I can over the next year as I kick-start my career. I want to be a sponge, learn from the pros, and keep refining my grant writing skills to make a real impact.
On a personal note, I’ve always wanted to make meditation a daily practice. I’m aiming to be that person who can quiet their mind and find a little peace in the chaos of life. This year, I’m making it a point to prioritize meditation and achieve a sense of inner calm, mental clarity, and better overall well-being.
Why did you choose to be an intern for Educate. Radiate. Elevate.?
I chose to be an intern at Educate. Radiate. Elevate. For many reasons, but there is one reason that stands out above them all; my passion for working with children. Before I made a pivot into grant writing, my career focus was teaching, specifically special needs children. I have worked with many students in different capacities and loved every second of it. When I decided that I wanted to shift my focus and work more in the non-profit world, I knew I wanted to work with organizations that helped children in some form. When I stumbled upon E.R.E. I felt like it was a perfect blend of everything I was looking for!
What about the Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s Purpose, Mission, and Core Values speaks most to you and why?
Among Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s Core Values, the one that strongly resonates with me, is “Empathy.” I find it particularly compelling as it underscores the importance of establishing deeper connections with students through understanding their behavior and developing effective strategies to support them. We can provide more relevant and tailored support by placing ourselves in the student’s shoes and genuinely comprehending their needs and emotions. It helps us create a nurturing and empathetic learning environment, which I believe is crucial for each student’s comprehensive growth and development.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
What I enjoy most about volunteering is the sense of fulfillment that comes from making a positive impact on the community and the lives of others. Knowing that my efforts can contribute to meaningful change and help those in need is truly rewarding. Additionally, volunteering allows me to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for making a difference, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. It’s a wonderful way to give back, learn, and grow while positively influencing the world around us.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to spend my free time with my Fiancé and our dog! Our favorite thing is going for long walks and discovering new coffee shops. I have grown up and lived in the city my entire life, but there are always new places to discover, which I love! I also love to work out. I was a dancer my entire life and into my college years, so I try to stay as active as possible now that I am done with that. But most of all, I love to travel! My favorite things are exploring the world and learning about new cultures (especially the yummy food!).
The road to success is difficult and requires tremendous dedication. What advice would you give to a young person who aspires to follow in your footsteps and emulate your success?
Although I’m in the early stages of my career and still quite young, the advice I’d like to share is timeless: Never give up. It might sound like a cliché, but it holds profound truth. I went through a lot of struggles when I was younger, battling the pressure to have everything figured out when, in reality, I didn’t. I’ve realized that the most important thing is to stay true to yourself and discover your deepest passions. Your journey doesn’t have to be flawless; it simply needs to be uniquely yours.
