A Road to Work Success Story!
Joan came to Oshkosh, WI as a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo in November of 2022. As a young, outgoing, goal-oriented woman with a bachelor’s degree in Community Development, she was looking for opportunities to start a new life here in the U.S.
Joan was referred to the Winnebago Area Literacy Council Road to Work program by our community liaison with an intention of helping Joan gain a better understanding of the job market and the newest employment trends in WI, and learn how to craft a good resume and develop good interviewing skills. She was very excited about the prospective job opportunities but did not know where she would fit the best. Very soon, Joan learned that career pathways in health care afford tremendous opportunities, especially at a pivotal time in Wisconsin as healthcare shortages are on the rise.
As a very giving, caring, and compassionate person by nature, Joan decided to explore a new career path as a CNA. After taking a 4-week class she started working in her new role at Parkview Health Center in Oshkosh.
In a conversation with our Vocational Services Director, she shared that working in the healthcare field has its challenges but also holds inspiring advancements and boasts a meaningful, service-minded passion that fuels making a difference in the lives of others. The residents she works with call her a “smiler” as she always brings in a positive vibe and her own sunshine when she enters their rooms. She is glad to be a part of this dynamic industry.
Congratulations, Joan! We are excited to see what your professional future holds for you and what dreams you are planning to achieve!
