Latrice B. was previously working in home care but decided it was time to pursue new opportunities. In her search, she received an email from Skills about the University of Chicago Medicine Nursing Support Assistant Pathway Program. Latrice was enticed by a position that involved educational opportunities, work experience, and pathways to career advancement.
After connecting with the Skills Pivot to Success program in 2022, Latrice secured a position with UChicago Medicine as a Nursing Support Assistant (NSA) extern. Finishing at the top of her class, Latrice concluded her externship and clinicals on July 30th and then will interview for a role as a full-time Nursing Support Assistant at UChicago Medicine. Latrice shared more about her success story below.
How are you liking your new job so far?
I like my experience so far. I took the externship at UChicago Medicine because I wanted to care for people and have new experiences that I couldn’t have working in private care and home care. I’ve gained a full sense of what patients deal with and go through, especially from working in the cardiovascular unit. The most important things I’ve learned so far at UChicago Medicine is the “flow of the hustle” and what life is like working at a hospital.
Bring me back to the moment when you were hired? How did it feel?
I was shocked, surprised, and thankful. You never know if you are going to be chosen, especially out of a competitive group of candidates.
How was your experience working with the Skills staff?
I worked closely with Jay & Yesenia, managers at Skills. They were both very helpful and supportive, even as I worked my way through school and the UChicago Medicine externship.
Would you recommend Skills to other job seekers?
I would recommend Skills to anyone because of the help you get. Skills is a very good program because of the support system that they provide. Some people are scared to start new and different job positions, but Skills helps people through this struggle. They can connect people to jobs that they wouldn’t access otherwise. Without Skills, job seekers would have to go through more steps to get a job.
