“Dress for Success helps not only with tools but empowers you to accomplish whatever you want to do. My GPN classes were a great network and support for me.”

Virna Padilla came to the United States from Ecuador three years ago. She admits that the idea of moving and starting over looked easy from the outside, but the reality of learning a new language and finding a job in an unfamiliar country has huge challenges.

Virna’s quiet demeanor belies the dogged determination that comes from wanting her daughter to have a strong role model and a good life.

She talks about how once she got her green card and began looking for a job she was shocked at the reality of what she faced. Her confidence was shaky as she began to learn a new language and find work. The local library became a resource for her and as she talked to the librarian there she learned about Wake Tech Classes and a bi-lingual job fair. It was at the job fair that she saw the Dress for Success brochure with the words, “Are you a woman looking for a job?” and she said those words were talking to her.

She walked into the first week of the Going Places Network classes with little self-confidence and lots of insecurities. Words of encouragement flooded over her in the first class. Those words, “It is important to use the tools you have.” and “You are the only one that knows what you need to do.”, were enough to buoy her spirits and set her up for success.

Virna began using the tools and resources that Going Places Network mentors and instructors provided. She jumped into the workshops, mock interviews and job search with a renewed hope and confidence. Virna began interviewing and gained more knowledge of the process that would lead her to the right role for her. She also volunteered at her daughter’s pre-school and kindergarten teaching Spanish.

Virna’s advice for others trying to make a transition into a new career, country or life stage is this,

“Be strong, always adapt yourself to your surroundings and be willing to learn.”