Program Details

Andrea had recently graduated from college and was trying to figure out her next steps. Although she had always been interested in the medical field, she wasn’t sure where to begin. Determined to turn her passion into a career, Andrea connected with the Youth Job Center, where she found the guidance, resources, and support she needed to confidently pursue a future in healthcare.
“I am the first in my family to graduate high school and, let alone, college, so I always had to support myself and learn how to do everything on my own,” Andrea shares. “I was very fortunate to become a part of YJC because I was no longer alone in my journey. YJC offered me the guidance and support that I needed and became essential to where I am today.”
After participating in YJC’s workforce readiness training and working with her coach to refine her resume, Andrea secured paid work experience as a pharmacy technician intern at Walgreens. YJC ensured her success by providing work clothes and transportation assistance. Andrea also enrolled in several healthcare training programs to strengthen her skill set and took advantage of free supportive resources from YJC, such as books, uniforms, shoes, and a medical scrub watch.
Right alongside her every step of the way was her coach, Destanee. “My coach is always willing to help and is very supportive of my accomplishments,” says Andrea. “I can always connect with her and ask questions about anything I am unsure of. She lets me know about new and upcoming opportunities that she knows will be beneficial and a good opportunity for me to be part of. My coach has been a great support system in my journey to becoming a health professional, and I am very grateful to her and what she has done to help me.”
Andrea has obtained her pharmacy technician license and is a Certified Patient Care Technician (PCT), and has earned certifications as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Phlebotomy, and Electrocardiography (EKG).
“Where I currently find myself is what I had hoped for when I was younger,” she says. “After graduating from college, I was unsure of many things, whether I had picked the right major or career of interest. My favorite thing about my experience so far and my future job as a PCT is that I am certain it is still the right decision. I learned that I do belong in healthcare, and I enjoy learning more about patient care every day. YJC and their help played a very important role in my sense of security and confidence that I can work in the healthcare field.”
Her plans for the future include building a long-lasting career, and as part of that journey, participating in YJC's Healthcare Mentorship Program. She has also accepted a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) position at the Lurie Children's Infusion Center. We'll be by her side every step of the way, ensuring she has the support and resources she needs to make those goals a reality.
Andrea’s parting words:
“I would advise other young people to join YJC. It is a great support system that truly focuses on helping you achieve your goals. YJC offers help in many areas and can assist with what you need. Being a part of YJC will be very rewarding and beneficial to you, just as it has been for me.”