"Navigating Recovery and Career: My Journey to Becoming a Licensed Health Insurance Agent" by Isabella Schneider

Following my previous post, my diagnosis of Epilepsy in 2022, I have had so many things happen since then. My story is a great example of how to adapt and grow. The biggest focus on my health journey has been orthopedic corrections since 2020 in relation to my cerebral palsy. I have had at least one major surgery per year over the last five years.

 

This year, I had my final orthopedic surgery on my Sacroiliac Joint on the left side. It is where the pelvis and spine connect. I had it stabilized and have been recovering nicely. I am now 8 months post-op and move a lot smoother and efficiently. I have set new baselines for myself that will only continue to grow over time.

 

In late 2024, I thought a lot about my transition back to work as I have not worked since I graduated college in 2022. I gave appropriate focus on recovery so that when I do start work, my body can handle it well. Because of joining ESF young-adult support group I got an opportunity to speak with James Bennett. We both connected on a background in journalism. I explained my situation and how working from home would be the best way for me to have my body gradually get used to working. He suggested becoming a licensed health insurance agent. He explained his own experience in the field and how working from home with a supportive work atmosphere benefits him. My work experience and my B.A. degree in English made me an optimal candidate with many transferable skills. I also know how important finding the best insurance plan is, so why not help others feel informed about insurance plans that best fits their needs.

 

In 2025, while recovering from surgery, I steadily worked my way through the pre-licensing course for health insurance. In May, I took my first attempt at the state exam and failed. I didn’t pass by a few points. However, I made a date at the end of August and studied hard while balancing my final doctor appointments and going to physical therapy.The time came to take my second attempt at the exam, and I passed! I felt a sense of relief that the test was behind me and now I could start looking for jobs as a health insurance field. James Bennet informed me that recruiters would reach out to me not long after I passed.

 

On August 30, I passed the exam and by September 8 I accepted an offer from a company called Teleperformance! I am working as an Operations Customer Expert with my health insurance license. I started training for my position on September 22.

Working full-time will take a couple of months of adjustment as advised by my neurologist. I will continue to prioritize a good sleep routine and time for exercise! I have a sense of accomplishment and feel good that this is the appropriate time to be working now.

 

I know I have been through a lot medically and physically over the last five years between the orthopedic surgeries and my big seizure in 2022. My story proves that the time and effort to recover has paid off! I am eager to see how this next chapter of my life holds.