The former assistant director of Harvard’s Secondary School Program talks about her career

Interviewer 1: Why did you decide to pursue the career that you're in? Is there a reason that motivated you to do that? 

Rita:  I did not select this position as a career.  I needed money and health insurance for my three children. For that, I did whatever job was available such as teller in a bank, cashier at the Wilson’s farm and a stationary store. 

Along with these jobs, I continued my search for a job with benefits, and I saw one opening at Harvard, which was not the assistant director position. It was a very low level work that required making files, copying, mailing, and filing.  I felt very lucky when I received the hire letter with the details of benefits included.  

In India, my education was not focused on a career, and I didn't speak English at all when I came to this country. During the 8-9 years I was living here, I had picked up some basic English, but it definitely was not up to the Harvard standard. 

I worked hard and slowly. I had a good grip of a program that Harvard trained me. In addition, people were extremely nice and supportive. I have no words to express my gratitude to the wonderful people at Harvard who encouraged and supported me as I eventually became assistant director.  Just working there was a matter of pride for me, and becoming an assistant director was beyond my imagination. I can say that was one of the best times in my life. 

 In addition to financial stability that provided a bright future for my children, Harvard gave me an opportunity to learn, to grow, be challenged and know my own abilities.

Interviewer 2: Do you have any advice on what it's like to choose a career or find what you want to do in your life? 

Rita: Yeah. First, let me share a little about my background. When I was growing up, in my community and family, a girl's education was not a priority.  If they can do basic reading, writing and learn skills to manage a household, that is enough.  The emphasis was on becoming a good wife, a good mother, and a grandmother—that's it.  

So, I had no information regarding what other choices were available.  Remember, this was much before TV, internet or mobile. Whatever I studied, that was not focused on anything.  I want to clarify—my experience does not represent the whole India.

Now looking back at my life, I feel my journey became much more difficult because of this belief that “if one is a good wife, then the husband will be good too. He will take care of the needs of his family.” If I had skills and a good command of English, I wouldn't have to spend 10+ hours for a job others could do in six hours.  

It was an interesting, rewarding, and challenging life but if I had to do it again, I would want direction from the very beginning of my life and accumulate tons of useful skills. 

I have the same advice for the younger generation—that they should work towards figuring out what they really enjoy.  It's not easy.  That's why they should explore different things and take different courses until something clicks.