What was your first job in the realty industry? I worked as a licensed assistant for a successful agent at RE/MAX Town & Country in Aurora. He shared his knowledge so unselfishly, and I will always be grateful for him believing in me.

Where did you grow up? I grew up in Aurora. I attended college at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Fla., and I came back to live in Aurora in 1997.

What is your favorite free-time activity? I enjoy relaxing in front of the TV on cold days and winding down on my patio when the weather is much nicer.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I pray! But a great girlie movie and a glass of wine helps.

Growing up, what did you want to be? I wanted to be a singer. I thought I would be the next Whitney Houston. Well, that didn’t work out, so I just settled for singing on the praise team at my church, A Place of Change in Aurora.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not) who would it be and why? Dr. Martin Luther King. I would pick his brain to find out what kept him motivated through all the adversity and impossibilities. I’m sure I could apply some of his wisdom to this current real estate market.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? Downtown Chicago. There is always something to do, something to see and someone to meet.

What do you love most about the industry? I love that no matter how difficult the road to a closing table can be, in the end, I am helping to make a difference in someone’s life.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Making time to continuously learn every aspect of this ever-changing real estate market.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Because I have such a strong base in the Aurora area, I have been blessed with referrals from people who know me and love me already.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Personally, being an outstanding mother to my 11-year-old son, Tre. Professionally, never giving up on my dreams in this industry.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? Red Tails, the story of the Tuskegee Airmen. It’s a great example of perseverance paying off.

What kind of car do you drive? A Ford Expedition Limited.  I feel like I own the road when I’m driving in it!

What is your favorite restaurant? Mike & Denise’s Pizza, Pub & Grill in Aurora. All-you-can-eat crab legs on Saturdays! I hurt myself every time.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? The Smurfit-Stone Building (now the Crain Communications Building). Every time I drive down Lakeshore Drive, it catches my eye. The diamond on the top just stands out among the rest of the buildings.

Smartphone or paper? Smartphone! Everything goes in my smartphone.

What is your favorite city after Chicago? Montego Bay, Jamaica. Great food, great entertainment, great people, great fun.

What is your advice for someone new to the industry? Forget what you’ve heard, learn and go for it!