D. W., a highly educated professional with a Master’s degree in the History of Health Science
from Harvard University and another in Health Education from Columbia University, faced significant challenges despite her impressive academic achievements. Her limited professional experience, consisting mainly of short-term internships and fellowships, made it difficult for her to secure long-term employment. She struggled to translate her academic expertise into hands-on contributions that potential employers sought in the competitive fields of health education and community health. At the start of CareerCatchers’ Health Workforce Development Program, she reached out for support to transition into a fulfilling and stable career.
The main hurdles she faced were a lack of extensive professional experience, stiff job market
competition, and a pressing need for income stability. She aspired to transition into a higher-paying, stable role that leveraged her academic expertise, gained certifications and training to boost her professional credentials, and build a meaningful career in community health and education.
Career Coach Santos Guerrero partnered with D. W. to create a tailored career development plan
addressing her unique challenges. Together, they refined her resume and cover letter, emphasizing her academic achievements, research skills, and transferable expertise in ways that showcased her potential value to employers in the health and community services sectors. Santos provided targeted job search assistance, helping her identify part-time roles that aligned with her expertise and professional development goals. They focused on opportunities with organizations like the MLK Center, which aligned with her passion for community health.
Recognizing the need to bridge the gap in her professional experience, Santos encouraged her to
pursue certifications and part-time roles that offered practical, hands-on training. With Santos’ guidance, she enrolled in the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (MATP), where she began working toward a Community Health Worker certification to complement her academic background with marketable skills.
In September 2024, D. W. secured a part-time role as a Staff Support member at the MLK
Center, earning $18 per hour and working 25 hours per week. This role provided her with valuable hands-on experience in community engagement and health education, aligning closely with her career aspirations. She continues to work with Santos to advance her career, focusing on transitioning into a higher-paying, full-time position that utilizes her expertise more comprehensively.
With ongoing support from CareerCatchers and her proactive participation in training programs, D. W. is steadily building a stable and impactful career in health education and community health. Her journey highlights the transformative impact of individualized career counseling and tailored support in overcoming professional barriers.