After successfully finishing her first semester at college, Darya is spreading her wings and discovering just how much she’s capable of doing. According to Der, a WIOA Career Services Specialist, it’s hard to believe that this is the same shy, quiet girl who enrolled in WIOA as a high school sophomore way back in 2013. At the time, she didn’t know what she wanted to do or be.
Darya’s hard work and motivation were two tremendous assets in her growth. She enrolled in a work experience at a local store, where her supervisors loved her, and where she earned the Employability Skills Certificate from the North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board.
But it certainly didn’t stop there as Darya eagerly greeted every opportunity to learn. She took a series of night classes called “Steps Forward” to learn about renting an apartment, career exploration, financial literacy, and how to make a successful transition into adulthood. A student at UW-Stout, she wants to graduate with a degree in studio art and animation. “Through the help of the WIOA Youth Program,” Darya says, “I’ve learned so much and I feel more career-ready and prepared in general to live and be independent.”
One of the truest testaments to Darya’s character is her readiness to pay it forward to others in need. Darya and her mom worked as part of the local United Way’s Bundles of Joy Gift Wrapping event at Christmas and Darya also volunteered to organize toys for the Salvation Army so families could pick out gifts for their kids.
Seeing the woman Darya has become, Der says “I am so proud of all the hard work and motivation she has shown throughout the years. I wish her nothing but the best.” We couldn’t have said it any better. Congratulations on your first semester at college Darya, and drop us a line to let us know how you’re doing.
