Serena Chen graduated from Massey University in 2022 with a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science. After working as a support worker at Honda, she developed an interest in Salesforce through Trailhead.
When Serena joined Blaze Your Trail in June 2024, she had 155 Trailhead badges and certifications in Salesforce Administration and Associate. She has contributed 85 hours volunteering for various charities.
Serena's 3-5 year goal is to bring value to employers and help people, with a focus on Nonprofit Cloud, AI, and Marketing Cloud. This week, Serena was offered a role as Corporate Associate/Salesforce Admin at CardWorks.
Congratulations, Serena! Your grit and dedication are such great characteristics and we know that you will do great things. We are so proud!
Serena says "My time volunteering with Blaze Your Trail has been an incredibly enriching and rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. The training and learning opportunities provided have been exemplary, allowing me to develop a deep understanding of Salesforce administration and its practical applications in a nonprofit setting. The comprehensive guidance and support I received during this period have significantly enhanced my skills in data management, workflow automation, and integration tools. The hands-on experience with tools like Mailchimp, Zapier, and Raisely Page has equipped me with the knowledge to streamline processes and improve efficiency in any organizational context.
One of the most valuable aspects of my volunteering experience was the emphasis on user experience, best practices, and data integrity. Through detailed sessions on data reconciliation, dynamic forms, and the importance of standardising data mapping, I learned how to maintain accurate and reliable data systems. The meticulous approach to data migration and the use of sandbox environments for testing taught me the importance of safeguarding data and avoiding potential errors. These practices have instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and attention to detail, which I believe are crucial for any successful Salesforce administrator.
Before joining Blaze Your Trail, I found myself in the middle of a challenging job hunt, often feeling frustrated and disheartened by my lack of experience. Despite being recognised for my potential, I frequently faced rejection because I wasn't "experienced enough". This volunteer opportunity came at a pivotal moment in my life, offering a chance to bridge the gap between potential and practical experience. The structured training sessions, practical assignments, and the supportive learning environment opened up my horizons and deepened my knowledge of Salesforce. This shift from feeling stuck to becoming proficient in such a critical tool has been transformative.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to volunteer with Blaze Your Trail. Jessica and the people in BYT were always available to provide guidance, answer questions, and offer valuable insights, making the learning process both enjoyable and effective. This experience has not only equipped me with technical skills but also fostered a mindset of continuous learning and improvement. Joining Blaze Your Trail has made a significant difference in my career journey, transforming my frustration into confidence and my potential into tangible skills. Lastly, I sincerely appreciate the chance to contribute to such impactful organisations and am confident that the skills and knowledge I have gained will greatly benefit my future endeavours."
