How do you think about risk? What role has taking risks played in your life/career? Check out responses from hidden gems from our community below.

Alysha Percy | Professional Dancer/ Choreographer

There was no such thing as a smooth road in Alysha’s journey. Alysha had to sacrifice a lot to get to where she is now. She sacrificed most of her childhood for dance instead of hanging out with friends. She had to leave her family, her dog, and the people she loved just to have a chance at pursuing her goals here in LA. It has been difficult, to say the least. She’s been turned down countless times, from auditions to people. She’s been told she would never make it in the dance industry, but despite all of that, she pushed through and made it all worth it. Read more>>

Rocío Rosales | Associate Professor of Sociology and Vice Associate Dean of Faculty Development and Diversity

I’ve always thought the biggest risk I took was leaving home in Texas for college in New Jersey. It might not seem like a risk. Universities offer protection and going away to college is a rite of passage for many. But, I came from a working-class, immigrant family from a small border town. Going away meant leaving home with no financial safety net provided by parents, with limited information and social capital. My senior year, I received a full ride, my parents gave me their blessing and I left. Culture shock does not begin to explain what I experienced at Princeton. It was a tough four years but I made so many good friends and was challenged in multiple arenas. It was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. It also set me down my current career path. I don’t think I become a tenured UC professor if I hadn’t decided to go away for college. Read more>>

Benjamin Gutierrez | Owner; Beach Garden Group

Taking risks is often a necessary step towards achieving greatness. I firmly believe that most remarkable accomplishments are the result of bold and daring decisions. In my case, I have identified a significant gap in the market within my community – the lack of a fully inclusive space catering to the entire LGBTQ+ market, offering a diverse menu and craft cocktails. Read more>>

Christa Schott | CEO, Alliant Consulting

While I traditionally would consider myself conservative and risk-averse, I feel taking well thought out, calculated risks are the key to growth both personally and professionally. Throughout my life I feel I learned the most about myself by taking risks, overcoming a fear which is really just a wall I built up in my own head, and once I conquered that risk I feel I have been rewarded very much for it. Read more>>

Ka$h Kyle | Music Artist

I think that taking risks is extremely important to get what you want in life and be fulfilled, no matter who you are and what you do. It’s really easy to get caught up in societal pressures and take the “safe” choice, I feel like a lot of people give up on their dreams and passions because of this. I believe you have to take a leap of faith and do what you truly enjoy. In my life, taking risks has led me to find what my true purpose in life is, which is sharing my music with other people. Read more>>