I was living at home and attending college, yet I longed to be on my own and self-sufficient. My part-time position as a clerk at a drug store was not enough to fulfill my dreams for much longer.

Even though I live far from a Deseret Industries store, I found the help I needed through the Development Services Program. Deseret Industries and LDS Employment Resource Services work closely together to provide opportunities for obtaining job skills, work experience, and job search skills.

The Area Development Services Counselor worked with me to create a plan that would accomplish my dream of working as a health care professional. I was assigned a mentor who had just completed her nursing license, who could guide and encourage me through the steps I would need to follow if I were to succeed. I continued to work at my current job, took a loan out on my car, then the program helped me pay a modest amount of my tuition. My part of the agreement was to study hard.

At the drug store, I was asked to help in the pharmacy. This eventually led to certification as a pharmacy tech. While I was studying to become a licensed practical nurse, I received my certified nursing assistant certificate. These two certifications were great additions to my resume when I graduated as an LPN.

I was offered a wonderful position and am being considered for a head nurse position. I now have my own apartment. I am still attending school, and hopefully my next achievement will be graduation as a registered nurse.  

I am so grateful for the help and encouragement I received through Deseret Industries. In return for the blessings I have received, I help others in my community find employment. I also serve as a mentor to a young mother who also wants to become a nurse. Now I can help her to fulfill her dreams.