She Strengthens

Breaking Down the Barriers to Financial Success

As a personal finance enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours crunching numbers and exploring ways to boost my income. After paying off my student loans, I shifted my focus to increasing my earnings. Despite having a solid resume and excellent interview skills, I’ve struggled to land full-time employment, and my income has remained stagnant.

The Unseen Obstacles

I’ve come to realize that certain aspects of my identity may be working against me in the job market. Here are three concerns that weigh heavily on my mind:

The Power of a Last Name

My last name, Perez, is a constant reminder that I’m a Latina, despite my white “passing privilege.” Research has shown that individuals with non-white-sounding names face significant discrimination in the workplace. Studies have revealed that Latinos are discriminated against 20% of the time during the job application process, while white-sounding names receive 50% more callbacks than black-sounding names. I worry that my last name is a hurdle that I may never overcome.

The Legacy of Low Income

My history of low income is another concern. With most of my twenties spent in part-time employment, I’m worried that I’ll be stuck in a cycle of low earnings forever. The data suggests that salaries tend to plateau after 40, unless you’re already a high earner. I’m determined to break free from this pattern and significantly increase my income over the next two years.

The Gender Gap

As a woman, I’m acutely aware of the gender pay gap. With women earning less than men in the US, I’m concerned that my gender, combined with my non-white last name and low-income history, may be a triple threat to my financial success. The stats are daunting, with Latina women earning only 54% of what men earn. It’s infuriating that gender discrimination remains a significant barrier to financial equality.

Taking Control

When anxiety about my financial future sets in, I remind myself of the things I can control. I focus on creating high-quality work, supporting fellow women in their careers, and continuing to hustle. By doing so, I’m taking small but significant steps towards breaking down the barriers that stand between me and financial success.