When I first met Casey a few years ago, we connected immediately as fellow transplants having moved from similar areas of Eastern PA to Massachusetts. Our stories were similar in many ways — we both started working around 15-years-old and did not always thrive in traditional learning environments. Casey's story, however, differed from mine in a major way: she graduated from college at the height of the global pandemic in 2020!
Despite this obstacle, Casey continued to work hard to earn a living both before and after graduation, and take on many side opportunities to use her photography skills. By the time Casey had come to me for career coaching this year, she had been at her most recent job for a year and was ready to move on from an environment that was no longer serving her or her goals. We evaluated her career values and got to work making her resume stand out for the opportunities she was seeking. Casey hit the pavement, literally, and went in to speak with a local establishment she knew was hiring (Bonny Breads) to make a personal connection. She interviewed that same week and was hired part-time soon after. She sought out another part-time role that fit her values and goals to fill the income gap, and was recently promoted to a full-time role at Bonny Breads! Both roles have given Casey the opportunity to learn from young entrepreneurs who prioritize localization and community, so she can work toward her goal of opening her own cafe in the future.
"Working with Abbie as my career coach was a game-changer—her insightful guidance and personable approach helped me clarify my goals and build a clear path forward. Thanks to her support, I gained the confidence and strategy needed to leave my current place of work!" - Casey S.
