I am from Nepal, a small country that lies between India and the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. When I came to the United States it was difficult for me to find a job because I spoke very little English. A referral from my bishop to Deseret Industries gave me my first job in the United States. This referral not only gave me the opportunity to work, but to also improve my English.

At the DI, we had results and development meetings that included the Church-service missionaries from my branch. With their help, I set goals that would lead me toward having a career in the medical field. To help me achieve these goals, Deseret Industries paid my class fees so that I could learn English at the community college. My mentors from church supported me as well by teaching me English at church. My job coach taught me how to do money transactions and how to be a cashier. While I was cashiering, I could practice my English with the customers. This gave me confidence for speaking and understanding my new language.

When my English had improved, Deseret Industries gave me an opportunity to go to school, where I earned certificates in both phlebotomy and as a certified nursing assistant (CNA). I was then ready to begin to look for permanent employment through the Advanced Placement Program (APP). Many of my co-workers were in the APP program and they helped me feel confident that I could find a good job. My job coach helped me to prepare for interviews and taught me how to search out good job leads. With this support, I was able to take the time necessary to find a good job in the medical field.

I now have a full-time job as a CNA with a good company that also offers me health benefits. I am happy that DI gave me an opportunity to work in the United States and was willing to help me start my new career in the medical field.