About the Episode: Host Gabe Schauf sits down with recent graduates Natasha Jules, William Trotman, Cameron Smith, and Trinity Cornelius. They share what inspired them to pursue a career in funeral service, the lessons they’ve learned through their schooling and apprenticeships, and what lies ahead as they begin their careers.
About Natasha: My name is Natasha R. Jules. I was born and raised in NY. I was subject to death at a young age, when I discovered a deceased neighbor in my building. In high school, I joined the military. After the military, I had my share of law enforcement jobs (NY and FL Corrections, Homeland Security, and Police Department). I hold cosmetology licenses in NJ and FL. I graduated from Miami Dade College with 2 Associate degrees, Mortuary Science and Pre-Veterinary. I am back in school now completing my Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice Crime Scene Investigation, due to graduate in April 2026. My hobbies include giving haircuts to the homeless and feeding them, every third Sunday of the month in downtown Miami.
About William: My name is William 'Finn' Trotman. I'm a graduate from the University of the District of Columbia's Mortuary Science Program and was President for their Mortuary Science Student Association ('24 - '25). Originally, I had worked for the U.S. Census Bureau for about 10 years doing computer programming work before deciding to go back to school to find a career I was more passionate about. While in school, I began working at Hines-Rinaldi Funeral home and have just recently begun my full-time apprenticeship with them. My long-term goal is to pursue teaching in the mortuary science field and to use my skills in immersive technology to advance the experience for both students in school and for families in the funeral home.
About Cameron: My name is Cameron Smith, and I live in North Mississippi. I graduated from Northwest Mississippi Community College with an associate’s degree in Funeral Service Technology. I have also received my crematory operating certification. When I’m not prepping for my board exams, I enjoy spending time either outside in the sun or with my cats Barbara, Chainsaw, and Thomas. I plan to pursue a career in both embalming and funeral directing.
About Trinity: My name is Trinity Cornelius. From a young age, death was a familiar and peaceful part of life for me. At 16, I planned to enter the medical field, but it lacked the personal connection I craved. Memories of caring for loved ones' graves with my family inspired me to pursue funeral service instead. I started working in a funeral home at 19, and it confirmed my calling. Now in my final semester at Wayne State University’s Mortuary Science Program, I’m dedicated to providing meaningful care that supports families through loss. My mission is to offer the same compassion and dignity I once received and help others begin to heal.