Anastasia
My
name is Anastasia. I have been employed in the apprenticeship program for
over a year and a half. This happens to be the first time in my life that I was
able to keep a job for more than a few months. Prior to being employed at
here, I had a quite a few menial jobs with no
prospects of any advancement opportunities because I had a criminal record.
When I began my apprenticeship I had very few useful skills. I did not know how to fax, much less use office software. During my apprenticeship I definitely learned how to use office machinery, as well as useful programs such as Excel, FrontPage, and Access. Also, I learned HTML coding. Right now I am able to build a website from scratch or with FrontPage; not just look at one. My management gave me the opportunity to utilize my newfound skills and allowed me to overhaul our company website. This gave me tremendous self confidence because I did not know that I could do anything of this sort. Currently I am a Course Supervisor in charge of overseeing in-house computer training for the company.
On a more personal note, since I completed drug treatment I have moved into my own apartment and bought a vehicle that is not older than me. I am in compliance with all courts requirements and I am planning to go back to school to finish my BA in Political Science. I absolutely feel that I have accomplished a great deal since I was accepted into the apprenticeship program. I feel like there is a lot more in store for me other than working at dead end jobs.
UPDATE: 6/15/06
I have completed 3 years of probation and have been discharged by the courts. I also have completed the apprenticeship program and have been hired on as a mentor to oversee the organization's computer course room, job search preparation program and the design of websites for other non-profits.
