From Door-to-Door Sales to Public Policy

What did you study at school and why?

When I started my undergraduate studies at Rice University, I chose electrical engineering and computer science as my major. I had some coding experience and wanted to further develop those skills. However, faced with a competitive environment and a challenging grading curve, I switched my focus to economics, business, and political science. Despite the change, my passion for technology and computers never wavered.

Later, when I decided to attend law school, I aimed to combine my love for technology, computers, and the law. Catholic University offered a unique curriculum in communications law, allowing me to explore topics like spectrum allocation, copyright, trademark law, and the intersection of speech, technology, and the internet.

Joining TikTok felt like the natural next step in my career, where I could leverage over 20 years of education and professional experience to contribute to building one of the world’s most innovative communication platforms.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

One of the most unusual but impactful jobs I’ve had was working as a door-to-door salesman for Red Bull Energy Drink. I graduated from a top university during the economic downturn of 2003 and took on this role to make the best of the situation. To my surprise, it turned out to be one of the most valuable experiences of my career.

I learned that all of life is sales—whether you’re selling a product or selling yourself. Confidence and perseverance are at the core of any successful sales effort. This job taught me to handle rejection and understand that not everyone will accept what you’re offering—and that’s okay.

I also gained an appreciation for logistics. From product placement on store shelves to the processes behind getting goods to consumers, I developed a newfound respect for the intricacies of the supply chain. These lessons have stayed with me, and I even share them with my law students today.

What is the most impactful thing you've done at TikTok? What was your proudest moment at TikTok?

Even though I’ve only been at TikTok for a few months, it’s a place where you can make an impact from "day one." Bringing over a decade of experience and a fresh perspective to the government affairs team, I’ve been able to help shape innovative solutions that might not have been considered otherwise.

For example, I’ve worked on advancing model policies that help governments use TikTok effectively in situations like disaster response, drug take-back programs, and college recruitment initiatives. It’s rewarding to see how our work can drive meaningful change in people’s lives.

Why do you work in tech?

Technology represents infinite possibilities. The internet, in particular, is a transformative tool—one that has revolutionized access to information and created unprecedented opportunities for global connection.

Never before in human history have so many people had access to so much information. And never before have we been able to share ideas, celebrate milestones, and communicate on this scale. That is the magic of technology, and it’s what inspires me every day in my work at TikTok.

What leadership qualities do you look for when hiring people?

I look for individuals who are proactive and take ownership—those who “see a spill and grab a mop.” Teamwork is essential, and no job is too small. The ideal candidate is someone who identifies problems and takes initiative to solve them, rather than waiting for someone else to step in or considering a task beneath them.

What is your advice for someone who wants to build a career at TikTok or in technology in general?

Perseverance. Working at TikTok is exhilarating and deeply rewarding, but it’s also challenging. Nothing worthwhile is ever easy. TikTok will push you to grow and stretch your limits, but through perseverance, you’ll not only achieve your goals but also become the best version of yourself. The sense of accomplishment makes the journey all the more fulfilling.