1. What did you study at school and why?
I double majored in Political Science and Anthropology at UCI Irvine, with a minor in conflict resolution. I always wanted to pursue a career that has the potential to influence policies that impact lives positively. Leveraging my knowledge of global political systems with a keen understanding of human behavior, I went on to law school at the University of San Francisco to learn the foundations of how to navigate complex legal and compliance issues, which has been extremely useful in my role at TikTok.
2. What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
My first ever job was manning the fitting rooms at a major retailer, where I learned patience, resilience, and how to use a walkie-talkie. Jokes aside, the role that laid the foundation for my tenure at TikTok was as in-house counsel at an analytics start up where I learned the skill of allocating resources on mitigating material risk. There is always some risk as a cost of doing business, but what is most important is identifying and addressing risk that will erode trust between you and your users, customers, and the public at large.
3. What is the most impactful thing you've done at TikTok? / What was your proudest moment at TikTok?
I am proud of being part of the team to develop and implement our Project Texas framework, including standing up and operationalizing TikTok U.S. Data Security. This work is instrumental in reinforcing our commitment to safeguarding U.S. User data and ensuring a safe experience for 170 million Americans on TikTok.
4. Why do you work in tech?
I work in tech because technology has the power to change lives in ways few others fields can. It’s not just about building products but about creating solutions that are thoughtful, secure, and inclusive. Being part of tech means I get to contribute to something dynamic and fast-paced, where new ideas and diverse perspectives really matter.
I’m here to ensure that what we build is useful and safe, reflecting the values we want to see in the world. For me, it’s about focusing on what’s right, using technology as a force for positive impact, and constantly challenging myself to grow alongside an industry that never stands still.
5. What leadership qualities do you look for when hiring people?
I value big picture, strategic thinkers who are resilient and take an integrity first approach.
6. What is your advice for someone who wants to build a career at TikTok or in technology in general?
My advice is to be adaptable, stay curious, and build a strong foundation in ethical decision-making—these areas are crucial in tech today. Focus on understanding the “why” behind company initiatives and focus on identifying what actually matters to both internal and external stakeholders and how to achieve that objective without undermining the company's values.
At TikTok and in tech overall, success comes from combining your expertise with a commitment to continuous learning, staying resilient, and being open to new perspectives. If you approach each challenge as a chance to grow, you’ll be ready for the dynamic nature of this industry.
