New Choices Program Leads to Career Success for Philadelphia Resident
(Delaware and Chester Counties, PA, May 12, 2014)—Lawanda Connelly of Philadelphia had been working for 11 years at a major pharmaceutical company when she was laid off unexpectedly. Everything about finding a job had changed during that time, from writing her résumé to the interviewing process. Her savings and severance pay were now gone and she was not prepared for extended unemployment with a child to support. That is when an acquaintance told her about the New Choices Career Development Program at Delaware County Community College.
Connelly enrolled in the program and decided to take full advantage of everything offered. She was open to suggestions and excited to explore her options. Through a series of assessments offered before and during class, Connelly was able to consider new career paths. “The New Choices staff and interns were very helpful and encouraging. They saw something in me I didn’t see in myself,” she says.
Upon completing the program, Connelly interviewed for three jobs, and to her surprise, she was offered all three positions. “For the first time in my life I had to turn down two job opportunities.” She credits New Choices with giving her the confidence to put her best foot forward and truly revealing “new choices” for career options not previously considered. Connelly notes that New Choices showed her that she is most comfortable mentoring others… and that is her true passion. She is currently working full time in a position with Accolade helping other people make their best possible choices about healthcare. Her position allows her to utilize her skills and guide others in a supportive role.
It was hard for Connelly to say what she enjoyed the most about the New Choices program because she got so very much from the experience; however, she was touched and humbled by one particular experience and will always treasure the encouraging notes written by her classmates. “New Choices is a great program—you get out of it what you put in. They believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my true passion. They serve a great purpose.”
Delaware County Community College’s New Choices Career Development Program is offering a three-week condensed session beginning May 28 and ending June 18. Classes will be held Monday through Thursday. The program is free and provides individual and group support, career planning workshops, employer contacts, networking connections, résumé writing, interviewing techniques and basic computer skills. The goal is to assist individuals in gaining the knowledge and skills needed to find a job, enhance career opportunities, and become self-supporting.
Interested individuals are invited to call 610-359-5232 for more information.
