Administrative and Clerical Training Graduate, Pathways Skills Development
Anxious, alone, and overwhelmed, I woke up each day wondering where I would go from here: a single Mom, moving from my home town to London, on Ontario Works to feed my son and put a roof over our heads. Each day I woke up knowing that I needed to do something to create a better life – I had a little boy to raise, and I was going to make the best life possible for him.
I wanted to do something for us.. I wanted to get my GED and get some sort of schooling or training. And when my caseworker through Ontario Works told me about Pathways and recommended the ACT program, I knew that I had a lot of hard work to do before I could start the course.
It’s hard being 26-27 and having to do your grade 12, and start almost all over. I felt embarrassed that I was just then, at that time in my life, doing something. And I was so nervous. But I made the decision to go to Pathways, and I am so glad I did because that one decision changed my life!
Pathways changed my life by giving me a chance. My experience was awesome. The staff were great, and made me feel like I could do whatever I put my mind to. The entire team surrounding me never made me feel bad about who I was, or where I was in life.
I honestly believe that where I am today is because of my experience with Pathways. They taught me to grow, to think outside the box, and to move myself forward. I think about Corrina, Tami, Kim, Amy and Sandi almost every day.. because without their help, I am not sure I would be working where I am today.
Jessica’s Takeaway:
One of my favorite quotes is “You may not end up where you thought you’d be, but you always end up where you are meant to be.” Never give up. Life is full of ups and downs. I believe there is always a reason we are dealt the hand we end up with, it makes us who we are and stronger in the end.
Today Jessica is working as an Office Services Representative at Siskinds LLP.
