Nick Smith - HireAbility
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Nick Smith

Jump on Board for Success Participant

Photograph of JOBS participant Nick Smith

My Start with the Jump on Board for Success (JOBS) Program:

Navigating employment without experience is difficult. I was unsure of the application process and even more so, the interview process. I didn’t have transportation, and I struggled to land even an entry level position without previous employment.

Everything changed when I started working with Sky at the JOBS Program. The best part is that no one is rushing me. The program met me where I was at and has been supportive with going at my pace.

It doesn’t feel like the people who are helping you, are doing it to work a job. It doesn’t feel forced. People care about what you want to do and how we can assess it and create goals to help you get there.

Since I’ve started working with the JOBS Program, I learned how to conduct myself during an interview and feel confident in sharing my skills. I’ve gained employment experience as a dishwasher; I have a steady job and steady income and am building my resume. I am learning how to be more independent and advocate for myself.

I’m not sure what I want to do as a career. I’ve spent a lot of time in kitchens now, so I’ve thought about being a chef. However, I have also thought about being an actor. Either way, the JOBS Program is letting me take my time to gain experience and figure things out. I don’t know where I would be if it wasn’t for the JOBS Program.

My advice for anyone who is thinking about connecting with JOBS:

Just remember, everyone is doing the best they can in the moment. If you try something and it doesn’t work out, then it doesn’t work out. Don’t worry about it. Just keep going.