Shaadia’s Story: Grateful for Hired’s Support

I knew going into college that I had a strong support system. What I didn't know was that my support system would be the reason I am graduating College in June 2022 with my BS degree in Communications. I have had the privilege of working with mentors that not only send me words of encouragement but can also provide me with resources that have made this journey easier for me and my family.

 When I was introduced to my employment counselor at Hired, I didn't realize that I would now have another person in my corner that is determined to help me succeed. Since meeting her, I have worked at internships that have helped me build my skillset that I will use when I graduate college. She has helped my family in hard COVID times with rent assistance, winter clothing, and encouraged me to seek new opportunities that I would normally be hesitant to try. I recently returned from a semester-long study abroad in Cuernavaca, Mexico.

 I told my employment counselor of another opportunity I wanted to pursue this spring, another study abroad trip in New York. Without hesitation, she was able to write a grant that covers my whole trip which will allow me to earn college credits while learning about Islamic heritage and traditions. These are just a few things my employment counselor has encouraged me to try and has made possible for me.

 I am a firm believer in having a support system that encourages you to grow and experience new things but having a support system that shows up for you every time and does everything in their power to make that growth easier for you is something I could not have imagined. I am truly grateful for my employment counselor and the Hired program for all the times they have shown up for me.