I started a phone screening on Monday, eager with genuine interest in the role and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the community. However, I found aspects of our interaction troubling. The repeated inquiries into personal matters—such as my health history, communication challenges, and employment gap—felt intrusive and inappropriate, especially after I had already acknowledged and explained the temporary difficulty. I was seeking an interview for a professional opportunity, not to be placed under scrutiny. Attempts to correct or challenge my lived experience during our conversation were disheartening. I’ve navigated a significant medical event and recovery, and have worked diligently to prepare for reentry into the workforce with the goal of supporting underserved populations. That commitment deserves respect. For me, this work is more than a job—it’s a reflection of deeply held values and a commitment to advocacy.