An open mind and hard work led Natasha to a new career path

August 19, 2024

A female with long red hair smiles on the left; to the right is a bus stop with a "Find a Fulfilling Career text "JOBS" to 71492 for career and training resources" ad under a "Hamline Avenue to downtown Saint Paul" sign.

After holding a leadership position for several years in her call-center job, Natasha was ready to take her career to the next level.

“I wasn’t satisfied with my current job,” Natasha explained, “but I also knew that just job hopping wasn’t going to get me anywhere because I didn’t have the qualifications.” She wanted to find something more that would provide the benefits she needed.

One day during her daily commute she noticed a billboard promoting Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota’s (GESMN) free career resources and training. “I already had an open mind for new opportunities and then I saw the billboard and I was like ‘this is a sign,’” said Natasha.

She took action from the ad and connected with Michelle, a career navigator in GESMN’s Business Professional Pathways program. The 10-week program offers job placement assistance, resume building and guidance from business professionals at no cost for eligible students. Natasha earned certifications in project management and got assistance securing a laptop and getting bus rides to class.

“It’s been great having Natasha in the program,” said Michelle. “Natasha has been really great at being that sponge, walking the talk, and being really open to feedback and willing to take that feedback and go with it and grow,” Michelle added. “I have a lot of confidence in her and I’m excited to see where she will go.”

Natasha said that Michelle also helped her learn valuable professional skills and is starting her job search after graduating from the program.

“Right now, I’m looking into administrative assistant roles or anything that would give me project management experience,” Natasha added. With Natasha’s drive and talent, plus GESMN skills training, her future looks bright.

GESMN offers nearly 20  career and job training services  funded by store sales and donations that help over 5,500 Minnesotans get equitable access to jobs each year. How can we help you reach your goals? Text JOBS to 71492 or sign up here today.