Success Story - Success Stories

Just over a year ago, I wasn't sure what my future would look like. I was trying to get on my feet, find some stability, and figure out where life was taking me. I knew I wanted a career in healthcare because I've always wanted to help people, but I wasn't sure how to get there or if I could really make it happen.
That's when I started the CNA program at Tukiendorf Training Institute and began working with Skills for Chicago.
From the beginning, I felt like I had people in my corner. Working with Cecily gave me the confidence I needed to keep moving forward. She helped me build a professional resume, prepare for interviews, and learn how to talk about my experiences in a way that showed employers what I could bring to the table. More importantly, she helped me believe in myself.
The support I received through the grant made a huge difference, too. It helped pay for my tuition, transportation, and even my first uniforms. When you're starting a new career, those things matter. That support let me focus on school and completing the program instead of worrying about how I was going to pay for everything.
After I finished my CNA classes, I kept putting off taking the Illinois Department of Public Health exam. I was nervous and kept telling myself I wasn't ready. Cecily stayed on me because she knew I could do it, even when I wasn't so sure.
The team at Tukiendorf believed in me too. They invited me back for a free review session because they genuinely wanted me to succeed. Looking back, that meant a lot. They didn't have to, but they cared enough to make sure I was prepared.
I took the review, sat for the exam, and passed.
That one decision changed everything.
Not long after, I started working as a Patient Care Technician at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Today, I work on a brain injury and rehabilitation unit, caring for patients recovering from strokes, traumatic brain injuries, tumors, and other neurological conditions.
One of the things I love most about working at Shirley Ryan is that it's a teaching hospital. I'm constantly learning from nurses, physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals, and I've grown so much in a short amount of time.
I also became involved in things I never expected. I'm part of my unit's Floor Council, where I help plan staff events, educational activities, and employee engagement efforts. It's given me opportunities to take on leadership responsibilities and help make our unit a positive place to work.
I've received multiple BEE Awards for patient care and teamwork. Being recognized by patients, families, and coworkers reminded me that my work matters.
What excites me most is seeing a future for myself. I work alongside nurses who started as technicians, just like me. I've watched people continue their education, become nurses, educators, and leaders, and it makes me feel like those goals are possible for me too.
My next step is nursing school. My employer offers tuition assistance, and I plan to continue my education and earn my nursing degree. A year ago, I wasn't even sure what my future would look like. Now, I'm planning my next degree and thinking about all the possibilities ahead of me.
One of the things that means the most to me is seeing the journey come full circle. When Skills for Chicago sends candidates to Shirley Ryan for job shadowing as part of the hiring process, many of them end up shadowing me.
I can usually tell right away when someone came through Skills for Chicago. They're prepared and professional. The way they introduce themselves, ask questions, and talk about their goals reminds me of my own experience.
I remember being in their shoes, wondering if I was making the right decision and hoping for an opportunity. Now I get to encourage others and show them what's possible.
When I think about everything that's happened over the last year, it's hard not to get emotional.
A little over a year ago, I started CNA classes and tried to figure out what came next. Today, I have a career I love, supportive coworkers, and a clear plan for my future.
More than anything, I've gained confidence in myself.
Skills for Chicago and Tukiendorf Training Institute didn't just help me get a job. They helped me believe in myself and take the first step toward a future I wasn't sure was possible.
My whole world is different now, and I'm excited about what's next.